In this special Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026 edition of the Space Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Mitchell Galloway and Peter Gibson from FUCHS Lubricants Australia.

The trio discuss the growing role of sovereign manufacturing in Australia’s space and defence industries, the importance of developing local supply chains and how businesses can engage with universities and emerging talent to build long-term capability.

The podcast conversation includes the following topics:

• The importance of sovereign manufacturing, local supply chains and Australian-made products in supporting both space and defence capability.
• How dual-use technologies and industry collaboration are creating opportunities across the space and defence sectors.
• FUCHS’ engagement with universities and the value of industry partnerships with academia.
• The benefits of internship programs and practical industry experience in developing Australia’s future engineering workforce.
• The significance of the Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register and Defence Industry Security Program requirements for companies seeking to work with defence primes and government.
• Industry perspectives on the state of Australia’s space sector, investment trends and the need for continued commercial growth despite government funding pressures.
• Advice for students seeking careers in space and defence, including the importance of pursuing areas of genuine interest and passion.

Finally, the discussion wraps up by exploring how Australia can continue building sovereign capability through local manufacturing, industry collaboration and investment in the next generation of engineers and technical professionals.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Space Connect team

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