The Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) is a multinational radio‑telescope project with more than 130,000 antennae in Western Australia and a sister array in South Africa, intended to map the first billion years of the universe. The Australian government contribution increased by more than $150m from 2020 to 2024 compared with its initial budget, partly due to funding shortfalls. In March the Australian telescope captured first images using about 1% of capacity. A former senior employee filed a protected disclosure calling for investigation into SKAO financial management. As an intergovernmental organisation, SKAO is not subject to Australian national laws, so the complaint went directly to global chair Filippo Maria Zerbi, and an email from Zerbi was sent in May 2025 in response to the report. Concerns had previously been raised internally and the organisation has denied wrongdoing.
It is hailed as a global endeavour to explore the hidden universe a powerful telescope comprising more than 130,000 antennae being built in outback Western Australia. Along with a sister telescope in South Africa, the Square Kilometre Array Observatory is a 2bn (A$3.6bn) project tasked with mapping the first billion years of the universe. One day, the SKAO's antennae which look like metal Christmas trees scattered across the desert could confirm the existence of extraterrestrial life, prove Einstein's theory of relativity.
But while the venture is being lauded as one of the most significant scientific endeavours of the 21st century, the Guardian can reveal that the organisation managing the funds of 16 member states has been rocked by allegations of financial misconduct. The organisation has denied any wrongdoing. The SKAO's antennae resemble metal Christmas trees scattered across the desert. Photograph: SKAO/Max Alexander
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