The iLAuNCH Trailblazer has appointed Rachel Noble PSM as the new Chair of the Advisory Board, marking a new chapter in governance and strategic oversight for Australia’s leading space commercialisation program.
Rachel Noble brings a wealth of experience at the highest levels of Australian national security, cyber defence, and strategic policy. She was the first woman in Australia’s history to lead a statutory intelligence agency, serving as Director-General of the Australian Signals Directorate, and has held senior executive positions including in the Department of Defence, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, and the Department of Home Affairs.
With a career dedicated to strengthening sovereign capabilities and safeguarding national interests, Ms Noble offers unique insight into the intersection of government, industry, academia, and emerging technologies.
“It’s an exciting time for space innovation in Australia. I’m honoured to contribute to iLAuNCH which is at the forefront of securing our future in space through trusted technology and strategic investment,” Ms Noble said.
Her appointment reinforces iLAuNCH’s commitment to robust governance, strategic foresight, and the national interest as the program accelerates sovereign capability and commercial impact across the space sector.
Ms Noble will Chair the newly reinstated iLAuNCH Advisory Board, comprised of new and continuing members. Together, they represent some of Australia’s most respected leaders in space, research, defence, health, and advanced manufacturing. This distinguished group brings cross-sector expertise and strategic insight to guide iLAuNCH through its next phase of growth and innovation:
- Professor John Bell, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
- Mr Cliff Kaye, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise Services), UniSQ
- Professor Stuart Wyithe, Director of Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Australian National University (ANU)
- Ms Veronica Bainton, Director of Governance and Industry Engagement, Optus Satellite and Space Systems and Chair of NSW Space Research Network
- Mr Sean Ryan, Executive Officer and Chief of Staff, Aspen Medical
- Mr Ravi Jain, General Manager, MEMKO
- Mr Jarrod Powell, General Manager of National Space Capability, Technology and Programs, Australian Space Agency
- Professor Colin Hall, Industry Professor at the Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia (UniSA)
Darin Lovett, Executive Director of the iLAuNCH Trailblazer, welcomed the appointment.
“Ms Noble’s appointment marks a significant step in the strategic evolution of iLAuNCH. Her extensive experience and national leadership across defence, cyber, and government will be instrumental as we advance Australia’s sovereign space capabilities and strengthen critical partnerships for long-term impact,” he said.
The iLAuNCH Advisory Board thanks former board members Dr Katrina Sanders, Mr Michael Thomas, and Professor Celine D’Orgeville for their exceptional service and contributions to the success of the program. The Board also extends its deep gratitude to Dr Rosalind Dubs, who served as Chair, for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing Australia’s space capability.
