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The Australian Space Agency and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority have signed a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) designed to tighten co-ordination between the nation’s space and aviation regulators and bolster safety across both sectors.
The agreement sets out a formal framework for closer co-operation, improved information sharing and clearer alignment between spaceflight and air navigation rules – a move officials have said will build industry confidence as Australia’s space sector continues to expand.
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Enrico Palermo, head of the Australian Space Agency, said a unified regulatory approach was essential as space activity becomes increasingly integrated with traditional airspace.
“As Australia’s space sector grows, ensuring a coordinated approach between space operations and air operations is critical,” Palermo said.
The MoU covers issues ranging from planned rocket launches and spacecraft returns through to managing unplanned re-entries of space debris and collaborating on international regulatory matters. Both agencies say the arrangement reinforces their shared goal of positioning Australia as a responsible, reliable and globally respected spacefaring nation.
“This agreement strengthens our partnership with CASA and reflects our commitment to work together to protect both spaceflight and aviation safety,” Palermo said.
“We’re showing the world that Australia is a suitable place to do space, and that is strengthened by our whole-of-government approach.”
Pip Spence, chief executive and director of aviation safety at CASA, said the MoU marks an important step in ensuring a consistent national approach to aviation safety amid rapid technological change.
“Lessons learned from recent rocket launches have helped shape our approach and clarified roles and responsibilities between our two agencies,” Spence said.
“The MoU positions us well to further support innovation and ensure a seamless experience for space and airspace users, while maintaining aviation safety as our shared primary focus.”
The agreement identifies four priority areas for joint work:
- Regulatory co-operation
- Space-related airspace risk management
- Collaboration on emerging and complex spaceflight and aviation technologies
- Joint engagement on multilateral international issues
Spence said CASA looks forward to deepening cooperation as Australia’s commercial and sovereign space capabilities continue to grow.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Australian Space Agency in supporting Australia’s rocket and space industry.”
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