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Session 2.4f: Tutorial - Satellite Communications in a Modern Geopolitical Environment

Tracks
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Swan Room

Details

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications have ushered in a transformative era in global communications, and the impact of this technology is particularly significant for Australia. This upcoming presentation will delve into the profound changes brought about by LEO satellites in the Australian and global communications landscape. The application of LEO technology goes beyond conventional communications, as it holds immense potential in supporting critical defence mission-sets. From civil and community support to a national defence perspective, LEO satellite communications have proven to be a game-changer in enhancing mission effectiveness and communication capabilities. As in industry leader in the LEO satcom space, Vocus has integrated our network with LEO providers so our customers can securely connect their most critical systems anywhere. When critical infrastructure operators deploy life-and-death defence, security and sovereign control systems, they often refuse to connect them to the internet. Even with the best security, internet connectivity remains riskier than over private networks. Vocus Layer 2 provides a secure alternate. Please join Dr Ilic and Mark Nunn as they outline this new capability that underpins secure satellite connectivity that bypasses the internet entirely. Dr Ilic will explore the practical advantages and opportunities this technology offers, plus user experiences with deployments. Dr Ilic will also offer thoughts on how LEO developments will strengthen defence missions on both national and global levels. The audience will gain insights into the market dynamics propelling the evolution of LEO satellite communications and deployment scenarios.


Speaker

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Dr Matt Ilic
Defence National Solutions Specialist
Vocus

Biography

During his 32 years of service in the Australian Army, Matthew Ilic was considered an expert in planning, building and maintenance of field communications infrastructure and has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels for the Australian Defence Force. For the last three years Dr Ilic has been the Defence National Solutions Specialist with Vocus.
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Mr Mark Nunn
Strategic Projects Development Lead
Vocus

Biography

Mark is the Strategic Projects Development Lead at Vocus, working on large digital infrastructure projects and partnerships. Prior to joining Vocus Mark was a diplomat with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade covering Indo-Pacific foreign policy requirements with diplomatic postings to Timor-Leste and Vanuatu. During his diplomatic career Mark worked with foreign governments and industry partners in diverse sectors including digital infrastructure, cyber security, energy, resources, and transport infrastructure. Mark started his career in the engineering sector and has experience in the full life cycle of large, complex infrastructure projects. Mark has a Masters of Commerce and Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from the University of New South Wales.
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