Galaxy’s offering is comparable to YouGov’s data services and it has a strong reputation in opinion polling, owning the opinion polling brand, Newspoll.

YouGov set up its own Australian business two years ago, using data collected from its proprietary panel of members to provide syndicated data products and services. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

David Briggs, the founder and managing director of Galaxy, will lead the combined business and team of 11 employees in Australia, which will initially operate under the brand YouGov Galaxy.

Stephan Shakespeare, CEO of YouGov, said: "With its reputation for accuracy and an excellent roster of corporate market research clients, Galaxy was an obvious fit for the YouGov Group. This acquisition increases our presence in Australia which is a significant market and one which is strategically important to our international clients."

Briggs, added: "Becoming part of YouGov gives Galaxy access to an enviable global profile, a high-quality proprietary panel and operating platform."