Treaties Committee to consider Australia-US Space Launches Agreement

THE Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) will hold a public hearing for its inquiry into the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America on 'Technology Safeguards Associated with United States Participation in Space Launches from Australia'.

The treaty aligns with Australia’s national interest to develop a space launch sector capable of meeting the growing demands for space launch. Australia has a unique geographical location which makes it strategically ideal for growing and commercialising the space launch sector. Currently, Australia exports the majority of its satellites to the US for launch by US companies.

This new agreement will allow US companies, universities, and government organisations to undertake space launching activities here in Australia, including the launch of Australian satellites on US launch vehicles. By providing legal and technical frameworks, this agreement guarantees the protection of US space technology launched from Australia. The agreement is consistent with Australia’s non-proliferation goals embodied in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Guidelines.

Committee Chair Josh Wilson MP said, “With the global space sector forecast to grow rapidly, this agreement will open new commercial opportunities for Australia’s space launch programs. The agreement will contribute to building a robust and sustainable space launch sector here in Australia, making us more attractive as a global launching hub.”

“Australia’s domestic policies and regulations have created an open marketplace that will allow countries from around the world to launch from Australia. By providing a reliable and responsible foundation for the United States to access space, Australia will strengthen an already well-established relationship, and will seek to leverage expanded launch activities into a growing Australian space sector.”

The program and more details about the inquiry are available on the committee’s website. The hearing can be accessed online.

Public hearing details

Date: Monday 13 May 2024
Time: 11:15 am approximately
Location: Committee Room 1R6

 

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