Overview
The Australian Space Agency is seeking feedback on proposed changes to the following rules for space and high power rocket activities:
- Space (Launches and Returns) (General) Rules 2019
- Space (Launches and Returns) (High Power Rocket) Rules 2019.
We expect the proposed changes will reduce barriers to participation and the regulatory burden on applicants, while maintaining safety of space activities.
We’ve developed this proposal in response to feedback from stakeholders, including evidence heard during the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Resources Inquiry into Developing Australia’s Space Industry.
The proposed changes will remove requirements that:
- a suitably qualified expert (SQE) or person with suitable qualifications and experience must not be a related party of a licence applicant
- a person with suitable qualifications and experience must be independent of a licence applicant.
There is no change to the requirement that the Minister, or their delegate, must approve a suitably qualified expert (SQE).
This is the first amendment to the legislation following the Government’s space package announcement on 3 March 2022. Further proposed amendments to the legislation are expected, aimed at delivering a globally respected regulatory framework for space activities.