🛰️ Launch in 44 Days!
Case Study: From 1st Investment to Testing Rockets in 6 weeks - Why Singapore’s Equatorial Space Systems Picked Australia for Takeoff
From idea to ignition in just six weeks — Equatorial Space Systems (ESS) has officially fired up its hybrid rocket engine test in the Northern Territory.
With backing from Austrade, ESS transitioned from initial investment to a successful hot-firing test in 44 days, choosing Australia for its vast testing zones and ideal equatorial location. Their eco-friendly propulsion tech could reduce launch emissions by up to 60%, underscoring why Northern Australia is becoming a global hub for space innovation and advanced manufacturing.
Explore Australia’s growing space ecosystem: Investment link
Sports
🍋 Sold Out at the Open: The Lemon Ace Craze
Uh oh, the Australian Open’s Lemon Ace is officially sold out - and fans are feeling it.
Grey Goose ’s Melbourne cousin to the US Open’s legendary Honey Deuce disappeared from AO bars after demand surged ahead of finals week. After debuting in 2025 with 100k+ sold, sales jumped 670% this year before it ran dry. (As a comparison, the Honey Deuce launched at US Open back in 2011, and 14 years later it sold ~740,000 drinks at the 2025 tournament.) From newcomer to must-have almost overnight, the Lemon Ace looks like it could be the new Alacaraz.
A vodka, passionfruit, lemonade, mint classic - gone in a Melbourne heatwave. Tennis fans know the pain. 🎾🍹
Bacardi better have enough ready for 2027 fans!
🌱 Climate and Energy
Andrew Forrest, Fortescue & A Shifting U.S. Policy Landscape
One of Australia’s most outspoken billionaires, Andrew Forrest, is once again shaping headlines — pushing his Fortescue Metals Group to align with clean energy policies and international trade shifts as the U.S. enters a new phase in 2026.
His moves highlight how Australia’s green hydrogen and renewable sectors are preparing for geopolitical recalibration — especially amid renewed debates about carbon exports and U.S.-Australia cooperation.
📊 Full analysis: Axios report
New Guide Spotlight
✈️ Should You Move to Australia… as an Air Traffic Controller?
Aussie ATC Transition Playbook
Australia’s aviation sector is calling. We break down why skilled controllers are being offered competitive relocation packages, visa pathways, and high-quality-of-life perks of moving.
From 6-figure salaries to coastal commutes, this analysis dives into what it’s actually like to build a career managing Australian skies.
“Well, folks.. it has been 4 weeks since I arrived in Melbourne, VIC. I left my FAA ATC job from Charlotte, NC for the adventure of doing ATC in Australia. I have had a wonderfully warm greeting from Airservices Australia. Everyone has been incredibly friendly, supportive and truly wonderful"
Acquisition News
Airwallex Acquires Paynuri to Move into S. Korea
Australia’s unicorn Airwallex recently acquired Paynuri a South Korean fintech platform for businesses. The deal secures local licenses and an foreign exchange business registration tat supports further expansion in Asia.
As of a December 2025 funding round, Airwallex is currently valued at $8 billion.
🔗 Read more: Finovate
Acquisitions cont.
🌏 French Space Giant Lands in Perth: Snaps up Geotech Australia
Meanwhile, European capital continues to flow into dynamic Western Australia. A subsidiary of the French Space Agency CLS Group has acquired geo-mapping firm Geo Scan, in a deal the $43 million a-year Perth business hopes will inspire others WA companies.
The acquisition highlights ongoing international confidence in Australia’s geological and surveying sector, where strong project pipelines and government-backed exploration make Perth a strategic foothold for global firms.
🔗 Read more: CrossOpinion coverage
🇦🇺 Why It Matters Now
Whether it’s rockets, runways, resources, or refreshing drinks, Australia continues to turn global attention into its stable regulated environment, dynamic companies, and sustainable momentum. For those watching from the U.S. or abroad, it’s less “why Australia?” and more “when do we get involved?”
💡 Subscribe or share and tell a friend if you want to keep tabs on the most career and investable trends emerging from Down Under.
That’s it for this week.
Keep showing up, tell a friend and ask us questions. We’re here for you!
The ODU Team
P.S.
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