Synopsis
The report provides an overview of Australia’s history and current status in the space sector. Key points include:
- Australia has had a “bifurcated” space story – a national security element that has been highly secretive, and a civil/commercial element that has seen cycles of government engagement and retreat. Space activities have largely been driven by defense partnerships rather than an intrinsic national interest.
- Major events impacting Australia’s space sector include the 2003 bushfires that destroyed Mount Stromlo Observatory, the 2008 Global Financial Crisis which led the government to invest in rebuilding astronomy infrastructure, and the 2017 International Astronautical Congress hosted in Adelaide.
- The report analyzes the structure and frequent reorganizations of the Space Environment Research Centre (SERC), a cooperative research center focused on space debris removal technology. It highlights the challenges of public-private research partnerships.
- Public opinion polling shows most Australians do not recognize the importance of space technology in their daily lives. Better public relations and articulating the tangible benefits of space are seen as crucial.
- The report recommends Australia develop a national space policy similar to other nations. It should state Australia’s space values and goals, connect space to national priorities beyond jobs/growth, and list capabilities that serve those goals rather than make capabilities the focus.
- Overall the report argues Australia needs a whole-of-government national space policy to provide guidance and alignment for growing its presence as a space actor.