Space activities carried out either from Australia or by Australian nationals outside Australia are covered by the Space Activities Act 1998. Under this Act, certain space activities are prohibited unless appropriate approvals are obtained, for example a licence is required to operate a space launch facility.
The Space Licensing and Safety Office (SLASO) has been established to take responsibility for implementing the regulatory and safety regime for space activities in Australia and by Australians outside Australia. It has responsibility for enforcing the provisions of the Act and Regulations as well as any Agreements entered into by the Commonwealth for space launch projects.
SLASO is headed by a Director who, advised by expert Assessors, is responsible (under delegation from the Minister) for the licensing approvals of space launch facilities, space launches and associated activities carried on either from Australia or by Australian nationals outside Australia. The Director is responsible for ensuring public safety, emergency and incident investigations and for coordinating space related regulatory matters between government agencies.
For further information refer to the SLASO Factsheet