Australia’s startup scene is really taking off, and 2026 looks like it’s going to be a big year. We’re seeing some seriously clever companies popping up, tackling everything from space travel to how we pay for things. It feels like there’s a new wave of innovation happening across the country, and it’s pretty exciting to watch. If you’re curious about what’s next, keep an eye on these top startups in Australia that are making some serious noise.
Key Takeaways
- Gilmour Space Technologies is leading the charge in making space travel more accessible for small satellites.
- Zepto Payments is streamlining how businesses and individuals send money, handling billions in transactions.
- Leonardo.ai is a major player in AI-generated images, especially for gaming, and has seen huge growth.
- EcoCity Transport is pushing green transport with electric scooters and bikes, fitting right into eco-tourism.
- HydroTech Energy Australia is innovating in renewable energy by turning seawater into useful systems.
1. Gilmour Space Technologies
Down on the Gold Coast, Gilmour Space Technologies is really making waves in the space game. These folks are focused on making space travel a bit more accessible, especially for those smaller satellites we’re seeing more of these days. Started by brothers Adam and James Gilmour, they’ve managed to get a decent amount of funding, which is no easy feat, and they’re now working with clients all over the globe.
Their main thing is building and launching rockets. They’ve got a couple of different rockets in the works, like the ‘One Vision’ and ‘Redback’, designed to carry payloads into orbit. It’s pretty impressive stuff, considering how complicated rocket science is.
What’s really neat is their focus on the small satellite market. Think of all the tiny satellites that do everything from tracking weather to providing internet – Gilmour Space is building the ride for them.
Building a company in a field like space tech isn’t just about the engineering; it’s also about telling a compelling story to get investors and partners on board. It takes a lot of grit and a clear vision.
They’re not just dreaming about it either; they’re actively launching missions. It shows they’re serious about making Australia a player in the global space race. It’s a tough market, but they seem to be on the right track.
Here’s a quick look at what they’re up to:
- Rocket Development: Designing and building launch vehicles like the Redback.
- Satellite Launch Services: Providing affordable access to orbit for small satellites.
- Global Partnerships: Collaborating with international clients and agencies.
- Australian Space Industry: Contributing to the growth of Australia’s sovereign space capabilities.
2. Zepto Payments
Zepto Payments is making waves in the online transaction space, focusing on making digital purchases safer and smoother for everyone. They’re tackling the big issue of online fraud, which can be a real headache for both shoppers and businesses. Their main goal is to build a more trustworthy environment for e-commerce.
They’ve developed some clever technology that works behind the scenes to spot dodgy activity before it causes problems. This means fewer lost sales for online stores and less hassle for customers trying to buy things. It’s all about keeping things secure without slowing down the checkout process, which is a win-win.
Here’s a bit of what Zepto Payments is focused on:
- Fraud Detection: Using smart systems to identify suspicious transactions in real-time.
- Secure Transactions: Implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive payment details.
- Streamlined Checkout: Ensuring a quick and easy buying experience for customers.
With online shopping continuing to grow, having reliable security is more important than ever. Zepto Payments is stepping up to make sure that as the digital marketplace expands, the safety of transactions keeps pace. They were even a Platinum Sponsor at the Women in Payments Australia Symposium 2025, showing their commitment to the industry Women in Payments Australia Symposium 2025.
The digital world needs strong guardians, and Zepto Payments is building those defences. They aim to make online money movements feel as safe as handing over cash, but with all the convenience of digital.
It’s a big job, but they seem to be on the right track to making online shopping a bit less risky for all of us.
3. Leonardo.ai
You might have heard of Leonardo.ai, especially if you’re keeping an eye on the tech scene. This Australian startup really exploded onto the scene, focusing on AI-powered image generation. They became one of the fastest-growing AI companies in the country, attracting millions of users.
What started as a tool primarily for creating realistic visuals for the gaming industry quickly expanded. Their platform allows users to generate, edit, and customise all sorts of visual content. It’s pretty wild how quickly they grew, especially considering they only really got going in late 2022. By 2024, they were snapped up by Canva for a significant amount, a few months after securing a solid $47 million in funding. This acquisition really highlights the demand for accessible and powerful AI creative tools.
Leonardo.ai has managed to build a massive community, with over 1.8 million members on Discord alone, which is pretty impressive. This shows how much people are engaging with their tools.
Here’s a bit of what makes them stand out:
- Community Focus: A huge Discord community shows strong user engagement.
- Expanding Horizons: They’ve moved beyond gaming visuals into areas like marketing, fashion, and architecture.
- Tools for Teams: Introduced features for businesses, including private model sharing and API access for professional workflows.
The rapid growth and acquisition by Canva show a big market for easy-to-use AI creative tools. Leonardo.ai tapped into this by focusing on user experience and building a strong community. Now part of the Canva family, it’ll be interesting to see what new features they develop next. They already have a solid base, and with Canva’s support, the possibilities seem endless.
Now that they’re part of the Canva family, it’ll be interesting to see what new features and applications they come up with next. They’ve already got a strong foundation, and with Canva’s backing, the sky’s the limit. You can check out some of their work on Leonardo Ai’s funding.
4. IND Technology
IND Technology is doing some pretty important work, especially when it comes to keeping our power grids safe and preventing those nasty bushfires. They’ve developed a system that uses sensors to spot problems in electrical networks really early on, before they can cause big issues like blackouts or fires. This early fault detection technology is a real game-changer for the energy sector.
Founded by a professor who saw the devastation of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, IND Technology is all about using smart tech to make things safer. They’ve already managed to stop over 500 fire events globally with their system, which is quite a number. They’ve sold thousands of their detection units, and you can find them working in places like Australia, North America, and even parts of Europe.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes them stand out:
- Real-time Monitoring: Their sensors constantly check for early signs of trouble.
- Bushfire Prevention: A primary focus is stopping electrical faults from sparking fires.
- Grid Reliability: They help keep the power flowing without unexpected interruptions.
- Global Reach: Their technology is being used internationally to improve safety.
They recently picked up a significant chunk of funding, which shows how much people believe in what they’re doing. This investment will help them keep improving their systems and hopefully expand their reach even further. It’s great to see an Australian company making such a big impact on safety and infrastructure reliability, especially with the increasing challenges posed by climate change. You can find out more about their work on early fault detection.
The focus on proactive identification of electrical issues means fewer disruptions for homes and businesses, and critically, a reduced risk to lives and property. It’s a smart application of technology to address real-world safety concerns.
5. EcoCity Transport
EcoCity Transport is really making waves on the Gold Coast, changing how we think about getting around. They’re not just about electric scooters and bikes; they’re using smart tech to make your trips smoother and greener. Their AI-powered route planning is a standout feature, helping you find the best way to get from A to B, avoiding the usual traffic jams and showing you the sights along the way. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to explore without leaving a big carbon footprint.
Here’s a bit of what they’re doing:
- AI-Optimised Routes: Their app suggests the most efficient and scenic paths, steering clear of busy roads.
- Green Fleet: They’ve got a range of electric scooters and bikes built with the environment in mind.
- Easy for Tourists: Simple rental processes and built-in local guides make exploring a breeze.
They reckon that by mixing smart technology with eco-friendly vehicles, they can really cut down on city congestion and pollution. It’s a solid move towards a greener future for transport in Australia, and it’s great to see a company like this making a real effort. They’re proving that you can have fun and be kind to the planet at the same time.
6. HydroTech Energy Australia
HydroTech Energy Australia is really making waves in the renewable energy sector. They’re working on some pretty neat ideas to turn seawater into usable energy, which sounds a bit like science fiction, doesn’t it? But they’re actually doing it, and it could help solve some big energy challenges we’re facing.
Their main focus is on developing energy-efficient systems that harness the power of the ocean. It’s a massive undertaking, but if they can get it right, the impact could be huge, especially for coastal communities. They’re not just looking at one solution either; it seems like they’re developing a range of technologies to make this whole seawater-to-energy concept a reality.
Here’s a quick look at what makes them stand out:
- Innovative Technology: Developing systems to convert seawater into a reliable energy source.
- Global Recognition: They’ve managed to secure several international grants, showing strong belief in their work.
- Sustainability Focus: Contributing to a greener future by exploring ocean-based power generation.
The push towards sustainable power sources is more important than ever, and companies like HydroTech are at the forefront of finding new ways to meet our energy needs without harming the planet. Their work could be a game-changer.
It’s pretty inspiring to see an Australian company making such significant strides in a field that’s so critical for our future. They’re definitely one to keep an eye on as they continue to develop these groundbreaking systems.
7. MEQ Solutions
MEQ Solutions is doing some pretty interesting work in the red meat industry. You know how grading meat has always been a bit of a manual, subjective thing? Well, MEQ is changing that with technology. They’ve developed a system that uses cameras and AI to measure the quality and yield of red meat. It’s basically digitising a process that’s been done by eye for ages.
They started up in Adelaide back in 2016, and their first product, the MEQ Probe, got some early funding for trials. Now, they’ve really hit a milestone, securing a hefty US$15 million (that’s about AU$23 million) in a Series A funding round. This investment came from a New York firm called Insight Partners, and it’s going to help them grow their Early Fault Detection platform and hire more machine learning engineers.
What’s really neat is that their tech works from the live animal all the way to the final product you buy. They’ve even got a video-based app, MEQ Camera, that the US Department of Agriculture has certified for beef grading. That’s a world-first, apparently.
The global red meat market is massive, worth about $1.5 trillion a year, and it’s one of the few big supply chains that still relies heavily on people just looking at things to decide quality. MEQ’s tech is a big step towards making that process more objective and consistent.
Here’s a quick rundown of what they’re about:
- Integrated Hardware and AI Software: They’ve built a unique system combining physical tech with smart software.
- Real-time Data: Provides instant information on meat quality and how much usable product there is.
- Objective Grading: Replaces subjective visual checks with data-driven analysis.
- USDA Certification: Their MEQ Camera has been approved for beef grading in the US, a significant achievement.
8. Atrium
So, Atrium is a startup that’s trying to sort out a pretty common problem: managing all your contacts and conversations. You know how it is, you’ve got emails, messages, LinkedIn chats – it all gets a bit messy, right? Kevin Lu, who used to work as an investor at Airtree, noticed this when he was dealing with heaps of people. He thought, "There’s got to be a better way to keep track of who’s who and what’s what."
Atrium is building a ‘personal chief of staff’ powered by AI to help you manage your network. It’s basically aiming to combine your inbox with a customer relationship management (CRM) tool, but with some smart automation thrown in. The idea is to help you make the most out of all those connections you’ve built up over time. It’s a bit like having a digital assistant that remembers everything for you.
They’ve already managed to get some early funding, securing $1.3 million in pre-seed investment. Pretty good start, especially since his old employer, Airtree, chipped in. It shows there’s confidence in what they’re trying to achieve. The team also includes Kevin’s brother, Gerry Lu, and Daniel Lum, who bring their own tech backgrounds to the table.
The goal is to cut through the noise and help people focus on the important relationships. In a world that’s getting more connected but also more distracting, having a tool that helps you manage your professional life efficiently is a big deal. It’s about making your network work for you, not the other way around.
Atrium is looking to make it easier for individuals, especially founders and busy professionals, to stay on top of their professional circles. It’s a smart move, especially with AI becoming more common. They’re aiming to create a system that’s not just about storing information, but actively helping you engage with your contacts. You can check out more about early-stage funding rounds like this.
9. GenAqua
GenAqua is a Gold Coast-based startup that’s tackling a pretty common problem: bacteria lurking in our water pipes. Founded back in 2023 by Scott Goulter, they’ve developed a neat, compact UVC LED device that zaps germs right at the tap. It’s a clever bit of tech designed to catch those pesky bacteria that can hang around inside plumbing systems, which you wouldn’t normally see.
They recently snagged $300,000 in pre-seed funding, which is a good sign they’re onto something. This cash is going towards getting their water disinfection tech ready for hospitals and aged care facilities, basically making sure the water is clean right where it comes out.
Here’s a bit of what they’re up to:
- Product Development: Working on a compact UVC LED device for point-of-use water disinfection.
- Funding & Growth: Secured $300,000 in pre-seed funding and planning their next capital raise for June 2026.
- Market Expansion: Looking at opportunities in Southeast Asia and preparing for manufacturing.
- Trials & Certification: Progressing Watermark certification and conducting trials with Queensland Health.
GenAqua was part of the LX Health’s LuminaX Accelerator and even got named Startup of the Year for their 2025 cohort. It shows they’re not just tinkering away; they’re getting noticed in the healthtech scene. They’re aiming to make sure the water we use is as clean as possible, right from the source in our homes and facilities.
10. LawVu
LawVu is a legal tech company that’s really making waves, especially for in-house legal teams. They’ve managed to pull in about $9 million in new funding, which is a pretty big deal. This cash injection comes from investors who clearly believe in what they’re doing. On top of that, they’ve also nabbed a European company called ClauseBase, which they’re going to rename LawVu Draft. So, they’re not just growing, they’re expanding their reach and capabilities.
What LawVu actually does is provide this all-in-one workspace for legal departments. Think of it as a central hub where you can manage everything from initial requests and case files to contracts, documents, and even track spending. Now, they’re also rolling out LawVu Lens, which is a new AI tool that helps analyse contracts right within their platform. It sounds like they’re trying to cover all the bases to make legal work smoother.
They’ve seen some serious growth, with over 50% more revenue globally last year, and they’re doing well here in Australia too, with clients like the AFL and Monash University. This new funding and acquisition are all about helping them grow even bigger internationally and offer this complete AI-powered legal workspace to larger businesses.
The company is aiming to be the go-to platform for in-house legal teams, simplifying complex processes with technology.
Here’s a quick rundown of what LawVu offers:
- Integrated Workspace: Combines intake, matter management, and document handling.
- Contract Management: Streamlined workflows for all your agreements.
- Spend Tracking: Keep an eye on legal expenses.
- AI-Powered Analysis: New tools to help understand contracts better.
- Global Growth: Expanding its services to more businesses worldwide.
Wrapping Up 2025: What’s Next for Aussie Startups?
So, that’s a look at some of the standout Aussie startups as 2025 wraps up. It’s pretty clear the innovation game down under is strong, with companies tackling everything from getting us into space to making our online lives safer and our cities greener. These businesses aren’t just ideas on paper; they’re building real things and solving actual problems. It’s exciting to see what they’ll get up to in 2026 and beyond. Keep an eye on this space, because Australia’s startup scene is definitely one to watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of businesses are these Aussie startups working on?
These Aussie startups are diving into all sorts of cool areas! We’ve got companies building rockets for space, super-fast payment systems, making art with AI, eco-friendly transport, clean energy from the sea, secure online payments, quick delivery services, awesome underwater experiences, AI helpers for learning, and even platforms for creating ads.
Are there many AI startups in Australia right now?
Yeah, AI is a really big deal in Australia! Lots of startups are using AI to make things better, like creating images, helping people learn, or even managing ads. It seems like AI is helping businesses do things in new and smarter ways.
What’s special about the Gold Coast for startups?
The Gold Coast is becoming a really popular spot for new businesses. It’s got a great location, policies that help businesses grow, and lots of talented people. Plus, it’s known for being a sunny place with a good lifestyle, which attracts people to start companies there.
How do these startups get noticed?
Getting your business seen is super important! Many of these startups use clever marketing, like making sure their websites show up when people search online (that’s SEO), or using AI tools to help with their content. It’s all about making sure people know they exist.
Are there startups focused on helping the environment?
Definitely! Companies like EcoCity Transport are making travel greener with electric scooters and bikes. HydroTech Energy Australia is working on clean energy from seawater. It shows that a lot of Aussie startups care about the planet and are trying to find solutions.
What’s the main lesson from these successful startups?
A big takeaway is that solving real problems for people is key. Whether it’s making payments easier, delivering things faster, or creating art, these startups are focused on making things better for their customers. Also, working with the right people and using smart tools really helps them succeed.
