The Australian government is investing heavily in boosting Australian technology and innovation, and Israel is part of its plans.

In December, Australia’s Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced an innovation programme called Ideas Boom as part of his government’s Global Innovation Strategy. Under the programme, Australian startups will have access to innovation hubs in key international markets, of which Israel is one.

Australian Trade and Investment Minister Andrew Robb said the overseas hubs – to be called Landing Pads – would assist emerging Australian companies with their approach to identifying and engaging with international opportunities in overseas markets. “Landing Pads will be created in key global innovation hotspots including Silicon Valley and Tel Aviv to give Australian entrepreneurs and startups a shortterm operational base,” he said.

“A Landing Pad provides for a collaborative workspace and facilities including office space and meeting rooms for up to two months, as well as accelerated access to international business networks, entrepreneurial talent, business development and investment opportunities,” Robb continued. “Landing Pads will be established by Austrade in the US and Israel, with a further three locations to be identified in the near future. Austrade will also provide access to tailored services including mentoring, business coaching, and identifying investors and potential business partners. This is a valuable new resource for Australian companies and will help foster the innovation and entrepreneurialism we need to create new jobs and build the industries of the future.”