Jet Zero is one of the leading sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) developers in Australia across three projects in Queensland: Project Ulysses in Townsville (Alcohol-to-Jet SAF), Project Mandala also in North Queensland (HEFA SAF), and Project Silvo Plus, which is trialling the cultivation of both pongamia and agave as novel sustainable feedstocks.
Jet Zero CEO Ed Mason welcomed the Government’s new $1.1 billion investment as a step-change for SAF in Australia.
“As a company focused on bringing the regions to the runway with SAF, we are extremely excited about this new funding support and what it means for our most advanced project, Project Ulysses,” Mr Mason said.
‘Drop-in’ low carbon fuels, which can directly replace conventional jet fuel, are seen as the most practical solution to decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors like aviation. Accelerating SAF development also enhances fuel security, particularly in a country that currently imports 91% of its jet fuel.
The federal government’s latest announcement builds on previous commitments, including $280 million through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and the $181 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund (SIDF) from the Queensland Government.
Project Ulysses, located in Townsville, also known as Australia’s army capital and a central hub for North Queensland agriculture, is currently undergoing $75 million worth of engineering and early civil works, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026. The project aims to produce 113 million litres per year of SAF and renewable diesel by 2028, representing one of the largest investments in Townsville in over 25 years.
Jet Zero says the project will support not only aviation but also fuel sovereignty for the defence sector and create new demand for Australian agriculture.
Mason also acknowledged the work of the Jet Zero team and partners who have spent the past three years pushing for policy support. He noted growing backing from sectors such as Defence, the National Farmers Federation, Canegrowers, and Grains Australia.
Looking ahead to COP30, Jet Zero supports the introduction of a national SAF mandate, which would align Australia with most G20 countries. Mason stressed that international experience shows such mandates provide essential long-term demand certainty, enabling regional industries to thrive alongside the aviation sector.
“We have seen voices supporting SAF broaden significantly, and a national mandate would be the most effective way to bring the regions to the runway,” he said.
