Government reviewing Australia's space legislation

The federal government has opened its review of the Space Activities Act 1998 to public comment, as part of efforts to help foster the Australian space industry.

With the review the government is assessing whether Australia’s current space legislation will remain relevant with advancements in space technologies.

It will seek to strike a balance between supporting emerging commercial space opportunities and ensuring Australia meets its international obligations for the use of space.

Space law expert Professor Steven Freeland is supporting the review process. Key members of Australia’s space industry — including industry, researchers and state and territory government representatives — converged at Parliament House on Wednesday to provide input for the review.

Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Christopher Pyne said changing space technologies, including those relating to satellites, gives the Australian space industry strong potential to contribute significantly to the economy.

“The government is a strong supporter of industries like space technology that have the potential to transform Australia into a leading innovative nation and position us to seize the next wave of economic prosperity,” he said.

“More than at any other time in history, the conditions are right for commercial exploitation of space technology and Australia needs to take advantage of the opportunity. Public comment will be one factor in helping us to get the right balance between stimulating innovation and private investment, managing risk and maintaining our global responsibilities for space.”

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