The Hon Ian Macfarlane MP Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources
PO BOX 6022 PARLIAMENT HOUSE CANBERRA ACT 2600
Senator Grant Chapman Senator for South Australia Parliament House CANBERRA ACT 2600 Lu-,wvi- Dear Sen&r Chapman
I am writing to provide you with a whole-of-government response to your letter of 22 December 2005 to the Prime Minister regarding your space policy proposal - Space: A Priority for Australia. I regret the time it has taken to provide you with this response.
The Australian Government welcomes the contribution that Space: A Priority for Australia makes to the debate about Australia's space policies and activities. Nonetheless, the Government is of the view that the issues you have raised are being managed appropriately with current arrangements, which provide the ability to flexibly respond to changing requirements.
The emphasis in Space: A Priority for Australia is on the importance of space to national security issues and you proposed that the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet be given responsibility for coordinating an Australian strategic space policy framework.
It is the Government's assessment that Australia has adequate access to space capabilities through commercial and inter-governmental arrangements. Reliance on foreign-owned facilities is not unique to space technologies.
Risk assessment mechanisms for space-dependent critical infrastructure are primarily addressed through the National Critical Infrastructure responsibilities of the Attorney General. In addition, in 2005 the National Security Committee of Cabinet established a standing interdepartmental committee to monitor developments in commercial satellite capabilities. While the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet coordinated the creation of this committee, it is chaired by the agencies with the required technical capabilities.
The Minister for Defence has also advised that his Department is adopting measures to manage its dependency on space-enabled services. The recent Defence Capability Plan 2006-16, released on 20 June 2006, announced greater funding for the Australian Defence Force's military satellite communications capability, with more than $1 billion to be invested in next generation satellite and ground station infrastructure to ensure continuity of service and flexibility through digital content.
Telephone: (02) 6277 7580 Facsimile: (02) 6273 4104 Taken together these arrangements ensure that risks associated with Australia's reliance on space technologies, like other aspects of critical civil and military infrastructure, are assessed and monitored.
Since the Government discontinued the Australian Government Space Office in 1996, in the wake of a review by the then Bureau of Industry Economics, the appropriate management of the Government's space interests has been a matter of consideration in various forums. For example, my previous Parliamentary Secretary, the Hon Warren Entsch MP, convened an International Space Advisory Group which produced a report for the Prime Minister's Science, Engineering and Innovation Council (PMSEIC).
Subsequently, Warren and the then Minister for Science, the Hon Peter McGauran MP, asked my Department to prepare a paper explaining the Government's decentralised space policy framework. That document, Australian Government Space Engagement: Policy Framework and Overview, did not propose new policy but, through an extended process of consultation with relevant portfolios, articulated in a single document the Government's existing policies and programs relating to space technologies.
The paper explains that while the Administrative Orders place responsibility for civil space matters with the Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources, the Government's space-related activities and objectives are implemented across a wide range of government agencies. Whole- of-government liaison on civil space issues occurs through the Australian Government Space Forum, but that forum does not supplant the policy and program development and delivery authority vested in individual government agencies. The Government believes that this decentralised arrangement is appropriate given the wide range of matters affected by space.
I have enclosed an updated version of the space engagement paper for your information. Because the paper articulates existing policies, there was no need to take it to Cabinet for approval. It has, however, been subject to regular and extensive consultation with the relevant Government agencies to ensure that it is accurate. A document outlining individual portfolio space responsibilities is also enclosed.
I would like to thank you and the members of your Space Policy Advisory Group for the interest you have taken in the Government's space policy arrangements.
Yours sincerely
n
Ian Macfarlane 9
Enc
2 0 APR 2007 AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT
PORTFOLIO SPACE RESPONSIBILITIES
OCTOBER 2006 I Australian Government Portfolio Space Responsibilities
Australian Communications and Media Authority
Attorney-General's Department - Emergency Management Australia
Bureau of Rural Sciences
CSIRO
Department of Communications, Technology and the Arts
Department of Defence
Department of Environment and Heritage - Bureau of Meteorology
Department of Education, Science and Training
Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources Aerospace, Defence and Industry Participation Branch Space Licensing and Safety Office
Geoscience Australia Australian Centre for Remote Sensing National Geospatial Reference Systems Project
IPS Radio and Space Services
Department of Transport and Regional Services
Office of Spatial Data Management 1 Australian Communications and Media Authoritv I
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
ACMA's vision is to be known as an integrated, forward-looking, proactive and llexible organisation that is recognised as a leading communications regulator that supports and encourages an innovative and vibrant communications sector.
AC'MA's strategic intent is to enable the communications needs of the Australian community to be inet by supporting and encouraging an innovative and vibrant con~municationssector.
AC'MA's goal is To manage an effective regulatory environment that: o supports a dynamic communications sector and o enables industry to meet the communications needs of the community.
Key objectiveis with respect to space-related activity
To pro\ ide support and a regulatory framework for satellite semlces to Australia and to mcet the communications needs of Australia's space sector and the Australian public.
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
ACMA is responsible for the following areas relating to space systems:
Regulation Regulating Australian satellite network communications (Australian satellite networks arc those networks notified to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) by ACMA), radiofrequency spectrum requirements of radio- astronomy sites, and Earth stations within Australian territory. Establishing licence arrangements for foreign satellite networks providing services to Australia.
Technical coordination Ensuring Australian satellite net~vorksadhere to international agreements and provisions of the ITU, including Advance Publication, coordination and notification.
Protecting Australian assignments in the Broadcasting - Satellite Service Plan and Fixed-Satellite Service Plan of the ITU. Supporting the introduction of Digital Sound Broadcasting by satellite.
Engineering Assessing the potential for interference betwecn space and terrestrial services. Developing coordination criteria for satellite networks and Earth stations.
f'ortfolio Space Kesporis~b~l~t~esOctober 700h Participating in international fora that study the technical characteristics of space systems and networks.
Policy and Regulatory Frameworks Providing advice to satellite operators and radio astronomers about national and international regulatoty and engineering requirements. Providing advice to Goi.ernment about regulatory and engineering recl~~irementsfor Australian and Ihreign space systems. Manage the consultative processes associated with coordinating Australian radiocommunications industry and Goi.ernment input to regional fora and. in accordance icith the ACMA's statutory obligations, to treaty level instru~nents oS the ITU Constitution, Convention and Radio Regulations.
Recent major achievements
ACMA is implementing a regulatory framework for a Radio Quiet Zone at the site of the Australian bid for the (proposed) Square Kilometre Array.
ACMA provides support for a number of Australian satellite systems that are established or planned for operation in the geostationaty orbit, including:
Department of Defence - DEF-R-SAT series - AUSSAT C Gav (Derence cotnponent of Optus CI) - ADF series - ADF West
AsiaSpace Limited - AsiaBSS - AUSDSB - AsiaBSS-B
Ophis Networks Pty Limited - Optus A series - Optus B series - Optus C series - Optus D series
PanAmSat Asia Pty Ltd - PAS-30 (ElUDEAVOUR 170E) - PAS-ENDEAVOIJR (10 orbital locations)
Kagoe Communications Pty Limited - ROEBIJCK series
CYGNET
Portfol~oSpace Respor~s~b~l~t~esOctober 2000 BSS List Filings (these were the subject of price-based allocations) - f70XTt.:l. at 152°F - I h4"E rcmains unallocated
AstroVision - AVA 1
Australian satellite systems that are established or planned for operation in non- geostationary orbits include: Department oi' Deknce - Federation Satellite One (FEDSAT-I) (launched on 14 December 2002) Australia S2COM Pty Limited - S2COM Sirion Global Pty Ltd - Sirion
PortfolioIAgency expenditure on space-related activit!
There IS no specific budget for ACMA space-related activities. The budget allocation is at a tearn level and includes funds for the performance of other functions for which thc team is responsible.
Legislation administered by portfoliolagency
Rrrdioc.onlmli?liccltiorlsAct 1992 and associated subordinate instruments. 7i~lcc~o~~rrn~i1~icc~tion~~Act! I 99 7 and associated subordinate instruments. BoIci.~igSc~~?lictc.v Act I992 and associated subordinate instruments. Functions as conferred on ACMA by or under other legislation.
International space-related agreements:
Australia is a signatory to the ITU Constitution and Convention. ACMA fulfils part of Australia's obligations to this treaty le\,el agreement.
ACMA has a role in implementing arrangements associated with the Agreenlelzt hctu.ccn tllc Go~~erninc~ztof .41ivt?-ctlici cznd thc L;lil*oj)~~cinSpacc Agenc-11fbr (1 Co- opct.cttil8c>S[)rrc cJ f'chic/cl 7kuc king Progreini
AChlA also provides advice on other international agreements which includeldeal mith radiocommunications issues.
PortfolioIAgency involvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements:
In order to ensure that it has the ability to meet its international obligations, ACMA enters into Deeds of Agreement (legally binding arrangements) with each Australian satellite operator. Deeds of Agreernent are intended to provide regulatory certainty
Portfol~oSpace Rcsponsibilit~esOctobcl- 700(> 3 of36 fbr bclth ACMA and satellite operators. ACMA currently has eight Deeds of Agreement. representing many ol'the satellite net~orksthat it has filed with the ITU on behalf of satellite operators.
Specifically ACMA has Deeds with PanAmSat, AsiaSpace. KagoeIMiraxis. S2COM. Optirs Networks. FOXTEL. Sirion and AstroVision.
ACMA also provides input to the Australian Government Space Forum and the GAL,ILEO Inter-Departmental Cc,mmittce.
Contact
(ieoff McMillen Manager. Regulation, Space and International Spectrum Planning Branch Australian Communications and Media Authority PO Box 78 Belconnen ACT 26 1 6 Ph: (02) 62 19 5257 Fax: (02) 6919 5133 Email: gcoff.mcmillen(tr,~acma.go\~.au I~ttp:' u\c.\\,.acmrl.go\.au
Further ~nformatlonon ACMA space-related matters 1s available from littp u L\ \\ ncm,] go1 .au ~l('V,\INTER852 1 I4.STAY DARD..pc=PC 1619
Last updated October 2006.
Portl'ol~oSpace Responsibil~tiesOctobcr 1006 Emergency Management Australia - Attorney-General's Department
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
EMA provides national leadership in the development of measures to reduce risk to comtnunities and manage the consequences of disasters. tie? objectivels with respect to space-related activity
No otjectives directly related to space-related activity. However, the role of the Australian Government Space Forum links directly to EMA's strategy of building morc cf'ective partncrsliips. and tMA's role in EM i CT-related CIS indicates space- based data and its surrounding issues are becoming increasingly significant in EMA's activities.
Current space related activities/responsibilities Australian Contingency Plan for Space Re-entry Debris (AUSCONPL.4N SPRED)
PortfolioIAgency budgets and expenditure on space related activity Nil in rclation to spacc
Legislation administered by portfoliolagenc?; !Vane
International space-related agreements None
PortfolioIAgency involvement in other space-related agreements Nonc
Contact
Roger Lye Assistant Director, Knowledge Management-Partnerships Emergency Management Australia - Attorney-General's Department PO Box 102(! Dickson ACT 2602 Ph: (02) 6256 4673 Fax: (02) 6256 4653 Email: roger.lye$i ema.gov.au htt],:. '\\.\vv~.eiiia.go\.all
Last updated October 2006.
l'ortl'ol~o Space Kespot~s~bilit~esOctober 200h Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Bureau of Rural Sciences
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
The Dcpartmcnt of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is the Australian Cio\.ernment Department responsible for agriculture, fisheries, forestry and food. Our mission is to increase the profitability, competitiveness and sustainability of Australian agriculture. fisheries. rorestry and food industries and enhance the natural resource basc to achieve greater national wealth and stronger rural and regional con~munities.
Kej ob~jectivelswith respect to space-related activity
To enhance the natural resource base on which our portfolio industries rely, by developing national initiatives to address issues of sustainable resources management and use; and conducting research to build an information base and encourage infi)r~nation-sharing.
Space-related activities, principally remote sensing, enable the development of methods for more cost efficient collection and use of natural resources information. Remotely sensed data products (such as AVHRR NDVI) are also used to produce spatially cxplicit information on regions affected by Exceptional Circun~stances (particularly drought).
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Research projects (see list below); Development of spatially explicit data sets for natural resources management.
Space-related research projects
Continental Forest Monitoring Framework - Pilot project in NF. Victoria - Remote sensing, field work and analysis. Calibration of 1CESat with airborne LiDAR to create a national vegetation height database. National vegetation extent baseline using Landsat TM, SPOT, QuickBird, and high resolution aerial photographs. Use of MODIS NDVI to measure change in resource condition associated with bore point closures. Use of MODIS NDVI to detect land use change in the Riverine Plains. Catchment scale land use mapping for the Australian continent.
Ponfolio Space Kesponsibilit~esOctober 2006 Recent n~ajorachievements
Ongoing developtnent (in association with StateITemtory agencies) of techn~cluesto update catchment scale land use maps using MODIS. Landsat and SPOT data.
Development of thc National Agricultural Monitoring System to provide a rangc of cliinat~cand production infommation, including NOAA AVHRR time series data, tin drought assistance application and assessment.
Publicly available information on portfoliolagency budgets and expenditure on space-related activity
DAFF space-related researchldata set development 2006-07
Legislation administered by portfoliolagency None
International space-related agreements None
PortfolioIAgenc~iovolvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements None
Contact
Dr Lucy Kandall Burcau of Rural Sciences PO Box 858 ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 6373 4901 Fax: (03) 6273 5827 Email: Li~cy.RandalI@i;brs.~ov.au htrp: a,u-a~.at'fii.gn\..au013
Last updatcd October 3006.
Portti~lioSpace Responsibilities Oct<>ber7000 I Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Oreanisation I
Portfolio or Agency mission/charter
CSIRO is an independent statutory authority constituted and operating under the provisions of the Science and Industry Research Act 1949. The reporting, accountability and other rules for CSIRO's operation are set out in the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Act 1997.
Functions
CSIRO's primary functions are to:
Apply the results of scientific research aligned with National Research Priorities and global trends, to deliver: o innovative and competitive industries; o healthy environment and lifestyles; and o a technologically advanced society. Contribute to national and international objectives and responsibilities of the Australian Government; and
Secondary functions include: international scientific liaison; training of research workers; publication of research results; and dissemination of information about science and technology.
Powers
The CSIRO has power to do whatever is necessary for the best performance of its functions. It may:
arrange for research and other work to be undertaken outside CSIRO; form partnerships, joint ventures or spin-off companies; make its discoveries and inventions available for licence fees, royalties or other considerations; pay bonuses to staff for discoveries or inventions; and charge fees for research, facilities or services provided to others.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
To exercise the above functions and powers with particular reference to space research and development in the interests of the Australian community and Government.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Dcnionstrate and promote the benefits of the use of space-related services to Australian users (govet-nment, coni~i~ercialand private); Applications development of satellite imagery and other satellite data (e.g. global positioning); Cooperative science validation and satellite calibration projects with international space agencies (e.g. NASA EO-1: JAXA GOSAT etc.); Maintain and utilise 20+ year moderate resolution satellite data archive through CSIRO Division of Marine and Atmospheric Research: Owner of Tasmanian Earth Resources Satellite Station (TERSS) X-band reception station (operated jointly with Geoseience Australia): Co-owner of Western Australian Satellite Technology Applications Centrc's S 'L band and X-band satellite reception stations; Meniber of Board of Management of SIL band satellite reception stations in Perth and Hobart; Responsible for operations (partially contracted out) of the NASA Canberra (Tidbinbilla) Deep Space Communications Complex; Responsible for operations (largely contracted out to the Australian Defence Force Academy) in support of NASA scientilic balloon flights from Australia; Regional focal point for United Nations Regional Space Applications Programme, and member of associated working groups; Australian delegate at international Group on Earth Observation (GEO); Australian representative on international Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS); Australian representative at Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APSAF); Australian point orcontact for NASA's Space Exploration Strategy: Australian point of contact for JAXA (Japan) Space Exploration Program; Cooperate with foreign space agencies and research organisations through numerous Memoranda of Understanding, e.g.: o 9;3m NASA contract to track Mars missions using Parkes dish; o $0.6m NASA contract for design study of next generation Deep Space Network; Operate Australia Telescope National Facility o Global leadership role in designing the next generation spacecraft tracking systems; Source of information and advice on nationaI/intemational space projects, programs and policies.
Recent major achievenients
Transfer of demonstrator Sentinel Hotspot real-time fire detection service to Gcoscience Australia for indefinite 2417 operation; Australian coordination of MODlS data reception, applications development and archiving associated with Sentinel; Establishment of new X-band reccption station in Perth with WASTAC consortium partners;
Punklio Spacu Respurisibilit~csOctober 200(1 Initiating establishment of new X-band stations in Darwin and Townsville (in cooperation with Bureau of Meteorology and Geoscience Australia); Establishment of new Distributed Archive and Distribution system for Oceanographic Satellite Observations (in conjunction with BoM).
Publicly available information on portfoliolagency budgets and expenditure on space-related activity:
Rekr to CSIRO Financ~alStatement in Annual Report: hltp: \b 11 11 .c,lro au chlro CII'IIIIIL'~ pcI~c\\,..htrnl
Relevant legislation
Sc,iclic,c~all(/ Il~hr.vh:vRc~.vcol.ch Ac~t 1949 Sc,icrrc,c,at~d Itldustry Rcl.vcrlrch I,cgi.vlrrtioti Arnct~dmctit.4c/ 1 986 a Coti~tnot~~t~erllt/zArrthot.itie.v rrtrd Cot~l/~rrtiicsAct 199 7
International space-related agreements include:
Memoranda of Understanding with:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United States for cooperation in Deep Space Tracking.
Letter agrceincnt or implementing arrangements with:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United States - "C'ooperating agency arrangement for the establishment and operation of ccrtain space vehicle tracking and communications facilities in Australia in support of NASA space projects." IUational Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United StatesbLTo establish an interoperability interface bet~eenNASA's Earth Observing System (EOS) Data and Information System (EOSIIIS) and CSI RO's system for Earth observation data".
Relc\ ant Treaties, Exchanges of Notes applying to cooperative agreements:
Exchange of Notes constituting an agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of Anierica concerning space vehicle tracking and communications facilities. Exchange of Notes constituting an agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America concerning the conduct of scientific balloon flights.
Portfol~oSpace Responsib~l~l~esOctobrr 1000 PortfolioIAgency involvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements
Deed of Agreement with the Australian Communications and Media Authority for the coordination and radio interference management of a satellite network; Numerous interactions with portfolios and agencies in research, development, applications and exploitation of Earth observation, satellite communications and other aspects of spacc technology; and Numerous contracts or collaborative arrangements with the private sector in relation to various aspects of space technology.
Contact
A. Alexander Held PhD Hcad, CSlRO Office of Space Science and Applications C/O Division of Marine and Atmospheric Research GPO Box 3023, Canberra ACT 2601. Australia Ph: (02) 6246 5899 Fax: (02) 6246 5988 Email: alcx.held~u>csiro.au Iittp.:\t M \& .cossa.csiro.au
Last updated October 2006.
Portfol~oSpace Resporlsibil~t~esOctobcr 2000 Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts
Portfolio or Agency mission/charter
The vision of DCITA is that Australia will continue to develop dynamic and world- class communications, information technology and cultural and sport sectors.
The Department builds on the underlying opportunities provided by new technology to enrich the economic, social and cultural well-being of all Australians.
In support of this vision DCITA provides strategic advice and professional support to the Australian Government on a wide range of policy areas including:
Arts; Cultural development; Broadcasting and online regulation; Information and communications technology; Intellectual property; Sport; and Telecommunications.
Key objective/s with respect to space-related activity
DCITA works to achieve the following outcomes that may have an impact on space- related activities:
Competitive and efficient communications and information technology industries and services, and improved access to Government information; and Australians valuing science and technology's contribution to our cultural and economic prosperity.
Current space-related activities/responsibilities:
DCITA provides policy advice to Government concerning radiofrequency spectrum access and management, broadcasting services and telecommunication services.
DCITA also participates in the Australian Government Space Forum.
Publicly available information on portfoliolagency budgets and expenditure on space-related activity
No specific funding is provided for space-related activities in the Department's budget.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Legislation administered by portfolio/agency
The more significant legislation administered by DCITA includes: Radiocommunications Act 1992 Broadcasting Services Act 1992 Telecommunications Act 1997
International space-related agreements
Australia is a signatory to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Constitution and Convention. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) takes a lead role in hlfilling Australia's responsibilities under thls treaty.
The ITU convenes the World Radiocornmunications Conference (WRC). The WRC provides the mechanism for international agreement governing the use of the radiofrequency spectrum for telecommunications and radiocommunications services, including satellite services.
ACMA, in consultation with DCITA and industry, monitors developments within the WRC and facilitates discussion and development of proposed Australian positions to be presented to the WRC. The next WRC will be held in Geneva in October/November 2007.
PortfoliotAgency involvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements:
See also the information above under "International space-related agreements" and the information contained in the ACMA profile.
Contact
Don Williams Manager, Internet Governance, Spectrum & Emergency Services Access & Consumer Division Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts Ph: (02) 6271 1549 Email: [email protected]
Note: the Department works closely with the ACMA concerning spectrum management issues, including space-related activities. Additional detailed information on space-related activities is available from the ACMA website at www.acma.gov.au.
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 I De~artmentof Defence I
Portfolio or Agency mission/charter
The Department of Defence is responsible for the defence of Australia and for activities in support of that central objective.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
Key Defence objectives in relation to space activity are to support the operations of the Australian Defence Force in peace and war, contribute to national security interests and enhance engagements with friends and allies.
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Defence space-related activities extend from strategic policy formulation to data processing and dissemination. Proposed acquisitions and other developments are analysed to ensure that longer-term requirements will be properly supported.
Defence uses space-sourced data for information analysis, surveillance, meteorology, geolocation, mapping and communications.
Recent major achievements
Acquisition of bandwidth to support international operations; An undertaking by Defence to manage FEDSAT; The formation of a Defence Space Coordination Office, a joint staff under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Force, with enterprise-wide responsibility for coordination of space-related activities.
Portfolio/Agency expenditure on space-related activity
Comprehensive data on Defence outlays for space and space-related matters is not clearly visible because such activity is commonly combined with terrestrial functions to produce specified outcomes.
Legislation administered by portfoliolagency
Defence administers a significant range of legislation, none of which is directly associated with space engagement. The list is available through www.directory.gov.au (legislation administered).
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 International space-related agreements
Numerous international arrangements involve information collection and analysis, surveillance, meteorology, timing, geolocation, mapping and communications.
Contact
Colonel Mike Collie Director Strategic Development Strategy Executive Department of Defence (R1- 1-A098) Ph: (02) 6265 3 134 Fax: (02) 6265 7994 Email: [email protected] http://www.defence.gov.au
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Bureau of Meteorology
.Agency missionlcharter
I'he Bureau ot' Meteorology is Australia's national weather service. The purpose of the Hureau is to contribute to Australia's social, economic, cultural and environmental goals through the performance of the functions of a National Meteorological Service in the public interest gcnerally and for the purposes of the Defence Force, navigation and shipping. civil aviation, and supporting primary production, industry, trade and commerce. 'l'he Hureau's mission is to observe and understand Australian weather and climate and provide meteorological. hydrological and oceanographic services in support of Australia's national needs and international obligations. This involves four separate basic missions of monitoring ueathcr, rcscarch, senrices and intcrnational activities.
Key ob,jective/s with respect to space-related activity
Space related activities arc part of Bureau objectives such as: operation of obscniations, communications and data processing systems to support weather services; research to improve understanding of Australia's weather and climate; inecting user needs for high quality weather and climate data, and forecast and warning services; meeting Australia's obligations in international meteorology; undertaking public education activities and meteorological education and training. Phe Bureau's Observations Program includes space-based observations with outputs encompassing satellite data required for the Bureau's Output Programs (e.g weather forecasting:warning), and for the Bureau's meteorological archive: policy development and advice, and national and international meteorological satellite activities.
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Operation ofa national satellite ground station network; Operating satellite ground stations to help maintain Chinese geostationary satellites in their correct orbits, via a bilateral agreement; Acquisition of satellite datalproducts via internet or special bilateral agreements; Archives of satellite data and products; Use of satellites for data relay from remotc automatic weather stations; Derivation of satellite-derived geophysical parameters over the Australian region from raw satellite data e.g. atmospheric temperatures ant1 winds; Protection of Burcau observational systems (e.g. satellite reception, wcathcr radars) from radio frequency interference; Implementation of international and national working arrangements for meteorological satellite activities including data uselacquisition, rapid
i'onlbl~oSpace Kcsporis~b~l~t~rsOctobzr ?(I06 I6 of 36 dissemination and exchange; Research and development activities on utilisation of satellite data e.g. assimilation into computer models for improving forecasts or tropical cyclone movement prediction; Organisation of international training programs in satellite meteorology.
Recent major achievements
MTSAT-1R (Japanese geostationary meteorological satellite) reception and processing facilities established in Melbourne and in several capital city Bureau Regional Offices; Upgrade of polar orbiting satellite ground station facilities in Darwin, Perth, Melbourne and Casey in Antarctica; Improvements to satellite applications such as sea surface temperatures, fogllow cloud, and solar radiation estimates; Improved satellite data assimilation systems for computer weather prediction models; Enhanced internet services delivery for satellite products; Hosting several international satellite meetings; Planning for involvement in advanced satellite systems; Development of new ultra-low-cost satellite reception and processing systems; Establishment of national standardised satellite data processing systems; Establishment of cooperative agreement with Japan covering satellite and related activities; Establishment of new system to exchange advanced satellite sounding data with other countries to better meet the needs of national meteorological services, especially computer weather production centres; Success in international fora in ensuring protection of some radiofrequency bands that are critically important to meteorological operations.
Agency expenditure in space-related activity
Year Estimated funds Estimated Satellite Satellite- Satellite- committed to satellite-related related asset related related asset spacebased staff payments expenditure running costs value observations (excl overheads) program 1998-99 $6.OM $2.OM $0.05M $0.3M $5M 1999-00 $6.7M $2.OM $0.4M $0.3M $5M 2000-01 $6.7M $2.OM $0.25M $0.3M $5M 2001-02 $9.OM $2.OM $1.2M $0.3M $5M 2002-03 $9.2M $2.1M $0.4M $0.3M $5.5M 2003-04 $8.5M $2.2M $0 $0.3M $6M 2004-05 $8.8M $2.4M $0.3M $0.3M $6M 2005-06 $10.3M $2.6M $1.4M $0.3M $6.5M Note: Associated infrastructure costs not included.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Legislation administered by agency
Metcot.olog1, Act l Y.55
International space-related agreements
Exchange of Letters ivith Japan on satellite and related activities; 12 large number of bilateral agreements including a Memorandum of Agreement with USA's NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration); Partner in the TRMM (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission) satellite program; Participation in other international satellite program announcements of opportunity.
Agency involveme~ltin other space-related agreementslarrangements
These include Bureau membership of national consortia that own and operate satellite recciving stations e.g Western Australian Satellite Technology and Applications Consortium (WASTAC) and Tasmanian Earth Resources Satellite Station (TERSS); plus cooperative establishment of receiving stations with the Australian Antarctic Division and the Australian Centre for Rcmote Sensing (ACRES).
The Bureau is the lead agency coordinating the Asia-Pacific Regional ATOVS Retransmission System, which is part of a new global system for real time exchange of satellite data to better meet user requirements.
The Bureau also plays a major role in Asia-Pacific Satellite Data Exchange and lltilisation niectlngs, held annually.
Contact
DI Sue Barrel1 Assistant D~rector(Obsenatlons and Englneenng) Bureau of Meteorology GPO Box 1289 Melbourne VIC 3001 Ph (03) 9669 4222 Emall s barrell@l bom go\ .au http u \+ \\ born gob au
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Spncc Rer;polls~b~l~rlesOctober ZOOh 1 De~artmentof Education. Science and Training I
Portfolio or Agency mission/charter
The mission of the Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) is to provide national leadership in developing and implementing innovative policy solutions in three areas: learning; skills acquisition; and building Australia's knowledge.
DEST is responsible for delivering the Australian Government's outcomes for Australia through learning, skills acquisition; and building Australia's knowledge:
Outcome 1: Individuals achieve high quality foundation skills and learning outcomes from schools and other providers; Outcome 2: Individuals achieve relevant skills and learning outcomes from post school education and training; and Outcome 3: Australia has a strong science, research and innovation capacity and is engaged internationally on science, education and training to advance our social development and economic growth.
Key objectives with related to science-related activity
Key priorities of DEST's work which are particularly relevant to science include: Research infrastructure - strengthening national systems by promoting innovation and building Australia's research infrastructure and international research competitiveness through initiatives such as the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) and the Research Quality Framework (RQF). Assistance for collaboration and innovation - encouraging collaboration across research sectors and industry through the Australian Government's Cooperative Research Centre programme and supporting Australia's effective engagement with the global science community. National leadership in engaging people in science and technology - through Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre, increase awareness and understanding of science and innovation through imaginative and inspirational experiences.
While not specifically directed at space, these activities support space science by underpinning the broader science system and ensure the quality and international reputation of Australian science.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 DEST's space science activities
DEST is a member of the Australian Government Space Forum (AGSF). DEST has responsibility for policy matters related to space science and works with stakeholders (e.g. CSIRO) to address specific issues.
Examples of activities that support space science include:
Anglo-Australian Observatory (AAO) - the Anglo-Australian Observatory (AAO) (http://www.aao.gov.au/) is overseen by the Anglo-Australian Telescope Board (AATB), which is an independent bi-nation body corporate authority, funded by the Government of Australia (through the Education, Science and Training portfolio) and the Government of the United Kingdom. The Board operates under The Anglo-Australian Telescope Agreement 1970 (the Agreement) which came into operation in February 1971 for an initial period of 25 years. This Agreement has been modified by a Supplementary Agreement which entered into force 29 June 2006, terminating both Agreements on 1 July 201 0 and transfening sole ownership and control of the AAT to the Australian Government.
Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope - Australia is a key player in international discussions towards establishing the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope, a project aimed at transforming our knowledge of the structure and origin of the universe. Australia has recently been announced as one of two countries short-listed as sites for the proposed SKA facility.
National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) - radio and optical astronomy has been identified as one of fifteen strategic capabilities within the NCRIS Roadmap. The NCRIS Roadrnap has been developed through extensive consultation with the Australian research community and will be used to guide the Australian Government's investment in research infrastructure.
Support for International Collaboration - DEST provides support for international research collaboration through the International Science Linkages (ISL) programme, a $94.8 million package funded over nine years to 201011 1 under the Backing Australia's Ability. The ISL programme supports access to strategically focussed, leading edge international science and technology through activities such as joint research projects and organising international conferences. During the period 2000 - 2006, six projects relevant to space science received support through the Competitive Grants element of the ISL programme.
DEST also supports Australia's international science and technology relations more broadly, including coordinating Australia's involvement in multi-lateral forums such as the OECD Committee for Science and Technology Policy, the OECD Global Science Forum and the APEC Industrial Science and Technology Working Group.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 International space-related agreements
DEST coordinates a large number of bilateral science and technology cooperation agreements or other arrangements that Australia has with other countries. DEST has responsibility for the following agreements relevant to space science:
Agreement between the Government of Australia and the European Space Agency for a Cooperative Space Vehicle Tracking Programme; Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America concerning the Conduct of Scientific Balloon Flights; Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America concerning Space Vehicle Tracking and Communication facilities.
Contact
International Science Branch Science Group Department of Education, Science & Training Level 3, 17 Mort Street CANBERRA ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 6240 5274 Fax: (02) 6 123 575 1 http://~~~.dest.gov.au/science
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Aerospace, Defence and Industry Participation Branch Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
Enhance the development of internationally competitive and sustainable business through excellence in policy formulation and implementation; Excel in business program and service delivery; and Be a respected source of knowledge through our understanding of the business environment and business networks.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
Foster investment, innovation and growth in the Australian space industry through providing a policy and operational framework, and developing and implementing strategies that address market and intervention failures.
Current space-related activities/responsibilities
Provide advice to Minister and Parliamentary Secretary on civil space policy matters; Manage the Australian Government's relations with stakeholders concerning space launch safety issues; Maintain the legislative framework under the Space Activities Act 1998.
Recent major achievements
Finalised Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of Australia on Cooperation in the Field of the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes; Space Activities Amendment Act 2000 proclaimed; Amendments to the Space Activities Regulations 2001 gazetted; Developed policy and administrative guidelines for the Item 69 "space" concession under the Customs TariffAct 1995; Hosting and coordination of Australian Government Space Forum.
PortfolioIAgency expenditure on space-related activity
AusIndustry, the Australian Government's business unit, provides incentives for Australian businesses to foster investment and become more innovative and internationally competitive. A number of AusIndustry programs are open to the space sector on a competitive basis. See http://www.ausindustry.gov.au/ for more information on AusIndustry products.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Legislation administered by portfoliolagency
Space Activities Act 1988 and associated Regulations; Policy and administrative guidelines for the Item 69 Concession (Space concession) under the Customs TariffAct 1995.
International space-related agreements
UN Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects; UN Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space; UN Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and other Celestial Bodies; UN Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and other Celestial Bodies; UN Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space; Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of Australia on Cooperation in the Field of the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes.
Contact
Manager Aerospace and Marine Industries Section Aerospace, Defence and Industry Participation Branch Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources GPO Box 9839 CANBERRA ACT 260 1 Ph: (02) 6213 7538 Fax: (02) 62 13 7205 http://www.industry.gov.au/space/
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Space Licensing and Safety Office Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources
Portfolio or Agency missiontcharter
To assist the development of space activities in Australia and by Australians outside Australia by administering the Space Activities Act 1998 and associated Regulations.
Key objectivets with respect to space-related activity
Delivery of regulatory services; Regulatory development; Negotiate and liaise with other Departmental areas, government agencies, and foreign governments in relation to proposed space activity.
Current space-related activitiestresponsibilities
Assist the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) by assessing their application to return Hayabusa (formerly MUSES-C), a scientific spacecraft launched from Japan in May 2003, to Woomera in 2007; Assist Optus in relation to their application to launch overseas two Optus D- series satellites; Publish Guidelines for industry; and Assist the proposed Kistler Woomera commercial spaceport by assessing their submissions under an Operations Agreement that predates the Act.
Legislation administered
Space Activities Act 1998 (and associated Regulations) Instruments associated with the Space Activities Act and Regulations: Maximum Probable Loss Methodology 2nd ed. Flight Safety Code 2nd ed. - List of designated and protected assets - Administrative arrangements for the classification of assets
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 International space-related agreements
UN Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects. UN Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space. UN Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and other Celestial Bodies. UN Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and other Celestial Bodies. UN Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space.
PortfolioIAgency involvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements
Administering the Agreement between the Commonwealth of Australia and Kistler Woomera Pty Ltd and Spaceport Woomera Pty Ltd in relation.to the launching by theK- 1 Aerospace Vehicle of satellites into space.
Contact
Dr Michael Green, Director SLASO GPO Box 9839 CANBERRA ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 621 3 6986 Fax: (02) 62 13 7249 Email: [email protected] http://www.industry.gov.au/space
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Australian Centre for Remote Sensing Geoscience Australia
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
To serve the Australian nation by generating and delivering geoscience information and knowledge as required by the Australian Government.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
To maximise the value that Australia derives from its investment in remote sensing infrastructure and systems. To provide timely access to a range of quality remote sensing data products and information for Australia and its region.
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Operation of the Australian Centre for Remote Sensing (ACRES), which provides a state-of-the-art facility for the reception, archiving, processing and distribution of satellite-based remote sensing data of Australia and its Territories. ACRES downlinks satellite data fi-om a number of international remote sensing missions. Data are archived for long-term use and processed to provide information relevant to national issues and priorities.
Participation in the Tasmanian Earth Resources Satellite System (TERSS) consortium, and the West Australian Satellite Technology Applications Consortium (WASTAC), both of which operate antennas for the reception of remote sensing data
Recent major achievements
In April 2006, ACRES obtained direct reception of satellite image data fiom the Japanese Government's Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS) at the Alice Springs Data Acquisition Facility. Through ACRES, ALOS data will be routinely received and distributed to non-commercial users within the Oceania region from late 2006. 2006 saw the development of e-commerce solutions enabling online purchase (via credit card) of satellite data from the ALOS satellite. During FY 2005-2006,58,168 satellite scenes were acquired and archived, 1991 customised images, and 2 1 1503 free online data files were processed and distributed to customers for use in a variety of applications including crop yield forecasting, topographic map updating, resource exploration, land cover change analysis, environmental monitoring, land use planning, bushfire monitoring, etc.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 The archive of data held by ACRES since 1979 is continually being used to provide accurate information about environmental change in Australia. In particular, the Australian Greenhouse Office has used fourteen national coverages to date, to assess and extract information about national land cover change - one of the most important inputs into the National Carbon Accounting System. The operation of the online Sentinel near real time bushfire monitoring system was transferred from CSIRO to Geoscience Australia. ACRES continues to feed near real time satellite imagery (within 40 minutes of acquisition) into the system. Sentinel was developed in collaboration with CSIRO and the Department of Defence and provides location and descriptive information across the entire country for active bushfires on a daily basis.
PortfolioIAgency expenditure on space-related activity
In 2005-6, GA received $3.94 m for its program administration of remote sensing. In 2005-6, GA received $0.975 m for the sale of remote sensing data to Government and private organisations.
Legislation administered by portfoliolagency Nil
International space-related agreements
MOU with United States Geological Survey (USGS) for access to Landsat data reception in Australia. This agreement has also been amended to provide for support of downlinking of onboard data for USGS. Extended MOU with the European Space Agency (ESA) for reception and distribution of ERS data in Australia. MOU signed with Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) for direct reception and non-commercial distribution of data from ALOS (launched January 2006). Agreement with the Japanese Earth Remote Sensing Data Analysis Centre (ERSDAC) to distribute ASTER satellite data. An informal agreement with RADARSAT International continues to allow ACRES to acquire and distribute RADARSAT imagery in Australia. Informal agreement with NASA / USGS for distribution of Hyperion and ALI data from the EO-1 satellite.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Portfolio/Agency involvement in other space-related agreement/arrangements
Data from NASA's experimental Earth Observation satellite EO-1 is also acquired at the TERSS facility under an informal arrangement and is shipped to USGS. Participation in the CRC on Spatial Information - Remote Sensing component. Managing and operating the Tasmanian Earth Resource Satellite Station (TERSS) on behalf of the TERSS board, of which ACRES is a member; membership comprises Australian government agencies and academic institutions. A member of the Western Australian Satellite Technology and Applications Consortium (WASTAC).
Contact
Dr Adam Lewis Group Leader, Spatial Information Access and Remote Sensing (SIARS) Geospatial and Earth Monitoring Division Geoscience Australia GPO Box 378, Canberra ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 6249 9353 Fax: (02) 6249 9936 http://www.ga.gov.au/acres
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 National Geospatial Reference Systems Project Geoscience Australia
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
Benefit the Australian community and industry by: Contributing data to the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS), and Using the resulting science and products to realise a higher accuracy National Geospatial Reference System in Australia.
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Observatory functions: Two satellite laser ranging (SLR) stations tracking at least 15 satellites as per International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) priorities. Data submitted to the ILRS global data centres. 21 continuously operating permanent GPS stations - Australian Regional GPS Network (ARGN). Data submitted to the IGS global data centres. Ten continuously operating permanent GPS stations for the South Pacific Sea Level and Climate Monitoring Program (SPSLCMP). Two continuously operating permanent DORIS beacons transmitting to SPOT (2,4, 5), Jason-1 ,Envisat. Geodetic Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) observations at the Mount Pleasant Radio Telescope - in cooperation with the University of Tasmania. Coordination of the Asia Pacific Regional Geodetic Project (APRGP) under the auspices of the Permanent Committee for GIs Infrastructure in the Asia Pacific (PCGIAP).
Data processing, analysis and research functions: Regional Associate Analysis Centre for the International GPS Service (IGS); Analysis Centre for the International Laser Ranging Service; Analysis Centre for the International VLBI Service; Analysis Centre for the International DORIS Service; Analysis Centre for the SPSLCMP; Type A Analysis Centre for the global GPS at Tide Gauge (TIGA) project of the IGS; Analysis Centre for the APRGP.
Outcomes of these activities: High accuracy orbit determination of geodetically/scientificallyrelevant satellites from GPS, SLR and DORIS systems; Definition, core network and densification of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF); Source coordinates for the Celestial Reference Frame (CRF) with the 'aim of densifying the Southern Hemisphere CRF; Earth orientation parameters (Earth rotation and polar motion parameters);
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 29 of 36 Long term time series from space geodetic data for global 1 climate change monitoring.
Recent major achievements
Data and analysis results provided to the technique specific international services groups of the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS).
PortfolioIAgency expenditure on space-related activity
Investment and expenditure for geodesy space-related activity for 2006-2007:
Capital investment Operations costs per year $0.14 M $4.6 M
International space-related agreements
National Aeronautics and Space Administration - "Cooperation in Space Geodesy and Geodynamics", 1973, 1981,1995 (amended 1998,2003) Institut Geographique National (IGN) and Centre National d'Estudes Spatiales (CNES) (France) -"DORIS Agreement" and "CATREF Agreement". Geographic Survey Institute (GSI), Japan "Cooperation in Geodesy". Informal relationships and cooperation with several national agencies worldwide, including National Geodetic Survey (USA), Geodetic Survey of Canada, Communications Research Laboratory (Japan), BKG and GFZ (Germany and France), etc.
Contact
Gary Johnston Project Leader National Geospatial Reference Systems Project Geoscience Australia PO Box 378, Canberra ACT 2601 Australia Ph: (02) 6249 9049 Fax: (02) 6249 9929 Email: gary [email protected] http://www.ga.gov.au/geodesy/
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 IPS Radio and Space Services
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
Enhance the development of internationally competitive and sustainable business through excellence in policy formulation and implementation. Excel in business program and service delivery. Be a respected source of knowledge through our understanding of the business environment and business networks.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
To provide timely radio propagation and space weather advice that customers rely on to perform their operations, that is appropriate to the needs of the Australasian community, and that uses best technical and business practices.
Current space-related activitieslresponsibilities
Provision of space weather services to customers in government and private sectors; Monitoring of the space environment; Policy advice relating to the influence of the space environment on technology; Australian space forecast centre; Archival of space environment data for the purpose of research and services; and Training in the mitigation of space weather effects on systems.
Recent major achievements
Electronically accessible data holdings at the IPS World Data Centre for Solar-Terrestrial Science, which provides a space-data hub for Australia, have doubled since opening. National Space Weather Plan drafted and undergoing consultation with stakeholders. Commenced cooperative ionospheric observations at Niue.
Portfolio/Agency budgets and expenditure on space-related activity
IPS, the space weather agency within the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources, provides space weather services based on data collected from its network of monitors and from data exchanged globally. The funding of space-related activities may be partitioned across the monitoring of space weather and the provision of space weather services.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Space weather Space weather monitoring services 2005-06 $ 1 340 000 $2050 000
Legislation administered by agency Nil
International space-related agreements
Agreement between USA and Australia on the operation of a solar observatory at Learmonth (Western Australia).
Agency involvement in other space-related arrangements
International Living with a Star program (Australian contact and member of Working Group). MOU between US National Solar Observatory and IPS over the operation of a helioseismological observatory at Learmonth (WA). MOU between the Chinese Institute of Radio Propagation and IPS over exchange of ionospheric data. MOU between Japanese Kyushu University (Space Environment Research Centre) and IPS on cooperation and exchange of geomagnetic data. MOU between the Niue Meteorological Office and IPS to support ionospheric observations from Niue. Declaration of intent between the South African Department of Communications and IPS to cooperate on the establishment of a space environment service within South Africa. Member of the AAS National Committee for Space Science.
Contact
Dr David Cole General Manager, IPS Radio and Space Services Department of Industry Tourism and Resources PO Box 1386 HAYMARKET NSW 1240 Ph: (02) 9213 8000 Fax: (02) 92 13 8060 Email: [email protected] http://www.ips.gov.au
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Department of Transport and Regional Services
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
The Transport and Regional Services Portfolio contributes to the well-being of all Australians by: fostering an efficient, sustainable, competitive, safe and secure transport system, and assisting regions to manage their own futures.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
To support transport users of GNSS signals in obtaining secure and economic access to the benefits of GNSS.
Current space-related activities/responsibilities
DOTARS, in partnership with Airservices Australia, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), has responsibility for policy advice on global navigation systems.
The systems of direct interest to Australia are the Global Positioning System (GPS), the Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), the planned Galileo system and their associated augmentation systems. Galileo is a European Union system which is planned to be interoperable with GPS.
Recent major achievements
The past year saw the final meeting of the Australian Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Coordination Committee (AGCC) on 22 June 2006. Under the chairmanship of Professor Don Sinnott, and in consultation with over 150 stakeholder communities, the AGCC had looked at a range of issues facing Australia to enable businesses and consumers to get the best use of GNSS.
The AGCC was established in 2000 as the national advisory body to the Minister for Transport and Regional Services on issues relevant to GNSS, still an emerging technology at that time. GNSS is a generic term covering a number of existing and planned constellations of satellites and their supporting infrastructure systems, used for determining positions across the globe. Examples are the United States Global Positioning System (GPS) and the forthcoming European Galileo system.
The AGCC effectively managed issues during the time GNSS was a rapidly emerging technology. The AGCC produced the GNSS policy statement "Positioning for the Future", which was launched by the Minister for Transport and Regional Seryices in August 2002. An aspirational high-level strategic document, it was essential to raising awareness.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 By 2006 GNSS technology had become well recognised as an enabler for industry and well established across many industry sectors. Without understating the ongoing importance of GNSS, the judgement was made that there was no ongoing need for a coordination committee along the lines of the AGCC. The minister has expressed his appreciation for the dedication and insight of the AGCC members over the challenging initial years of GNSS implementation.
Portfolio/Agency expenditure on space-related activity
Expenditure in 2005-06 included funding of DOTARS secretariat support for the AGCC and policy development and advice in relation to GNSS.
Legislation administered by portfoliolagency N/A
International space-related agreements N/A
PortfolioIAgency involvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements
DOTARS also supports the Minister for Transport and Regional Services by working closely with Airservices Australia (Airservices) and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to monitor spectrum issues related to this portfolio, particularly as they apply to safety of life services. DOTARS primary role in this respect is to provide support for portfolio agencies should the Minister for Transport and Regional Services be required to establish a position in relation to the aviation and Maritime search and rescue radio communication spectrum. Consequently, DOTARS participates in Aviation Spectrum Group meetings and may send a representative to the International Radiocommunications Advisory Council if the portfolio agencies require Departmental support. DOTARS participation at the World Radiocommunication Conference will also be determined on the need to support for Australia's position on aviation related matters.
Contact
Stephen Pantelidis Office of Airspace Management Department of Transport and Regional Services GPO Box 594 CANBERRA ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 6274 7045 Fax: (02) 6274 7744 Email: [email protected] http://www.dotars.gov.au/
Last updated November 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Office of Spatial Data Management
Portfolio or Agency missionlcharter
To expedite the delivery of spatial data, information and knowledge for the economic, social and environmental benefit of Australia. Spatial data includes earth observation and remotely sensed data. More specifically, to administer the Australian Government's Policy on Spatial Data Access and Pricing, which is designed to: maximise the benefits to the Australian Government from the application of spatial data; facilitate community access to public sector spatial data; and support the growth of a private sector spatial information industry.
Key objectivels with respect to space-related activity
Encourage agencies to make their spatial data available under the terms of the Policy; Ensure all scheduled datasets have an identified custodian; Assist custodians to maintain and provide access to datasets in a manner that delivers optimal benefit to users; Expedite a whole-of-government approach to meeting Australian Government agencies' needs for spatial data and tools; Support a whole-of-Government input to national spatial data coordination mechanisms; Promote development of the spatial information industry; Support interdepartmental committees that coordinate cross-portfolio implementation of the Policy: - Spatial Data Policy Executive (SDPE) - Spatial Data Management Group (SDMG) - Working groups established by the SDMG to consider thematic issues.
Recent major achievements
SDPE Annual Report to the Parliamentary Secretary for Industry, Tourism and Resources on progress on implementing the Policy. Increasing involvement by agencies in spatial data infrastructure issues within the Australian Government and through national jurisdictional and thematic coordination arrangements.
PortfolioIAgency expenditure on space-related activity
OSDM is a coordinating body and has a negligible operational budget. Space-related data is not distinguished from other spatial data.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 Legislation administered by portfoliolagency None
International space related agreements None
PortfolioIAgency involvement in other space-related agreementlarrangements None
Contact
Dr John R. Busby General Manager Australian Government - Office of Spatial Data Management GPO Box 378 Canberra ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 6249 9298 Fax: (02) 6249 9926 Email: [email protected] http://www.osdm.gov.aul
Last updated October 2006.
Portfolio Space Responsibilities October 2006 -
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SPACE ENGAGEMENT
Policy Framework and Overview
Australian Gimrnment Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources November 2006 0Commonwealth of Australia 2006
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from the Commonwealth. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the Commonwealth Copyright Administration, Attorney General's Department, Robert Garran Offices, National Circuit, Canberra ACT 2600 or posted at http:Nwww.ag.gov.au/cca 1. Reasons for Space Engagement
The Australian Government is engaged in space related activities in support of national strategic, economic and social outcomes. This paper outlines the policy framework and summarises the Government's space related activities.
Space is important to Australians -we are sophisticated users of space for national security, communications and broadcasting, environmental and natural resource management, weather forecasting, and navigation and timing services. For example, data from Earth observation satellites and global navigation satellite systems are used by Australian farmers to manage crops and the impacts of drought, and the Bureau of Meteorology participates in the World Weather Watch Program through the operation in Melbourne of one of three World Meteorological Centres.
Space is an important domain for Australian science. Australian astronomers, for example, have made important contributions to our understanding of the universe, based on their internationally recognised excellence and the view of space from Australia's southern hemisphere location.
Space provides opportunities for Australian industry. Australian firms have made advances in a number of niche fields, including satellite operations and services, signal and data processing, space instrumentation, ground station equipment and design, space debris tracking, use of Earth observation data and Global Positioning System (GPS) applications.
Safeguarding Australia's national security is a strategic and national research priority. Space infrastructure, science, research and related technologies contribute significantly to Australia's national security - not only to military and defence objectives, but also to wider security objectives such as border surveillance, anti-terrorism and security of telecommunications.
I 2. Australian Government Policy Framework for Space Engagement The Australian Government's space engagement is user- and market-driven, with a key objective being to obtain secure and economic access to the benefits of using space.
The Government and private sector secure access to the benefits of space by participating in a range of international cooperative arrangements and by purchasing products and services in the domestic and global market place. This is supported by the Government's competitive industry development and sciencelresearch funding programs.
Securing access to the benefits of space often involves international collaboration. Given the significant expense associated with many activities related to space, international collaboration provides opportunities to share the cost, effort and risks.
Australia's contribution to international cooperative arrangements is primarily in areas where it has competitive advantages. Australia has competitive advantages in the ground-segment aspects of space infrastructure. Australia's location and political stability make it a desirable location for major ground-segment infrastructure. These circumstances have led to Australia being host to major ground station facilities in support of many international endeavours in space, from astronomy, manned space programs and deep space exploration to earth observation and telecommunications. The Australian Government encourages commercially viable and sustainable endeavours in the space sector. The reasons for Government intervention in the space sector are the same as for most other high-technology industries. These are addressed by Government industry, science and innovation programs and do not require a dedicated space program. The Australian Government does not support a centrally-funded 'space office' or space program -the Australian Space Office was discontinued in 1996.
Researchers and businesses seeking support for their space endeavours can apply to a range of Australian Government industry and science support programs, where applications will be assessed on their merits against published criteria in competition with other proposals.
In summary, Australia's policy framework for space engagement involves:
participating in and supporting global cooperative and trading arrangements to achieve strategic, economic and social outcomes; contributing to those arrangements according to our competitive advantages, particularly by supporting ground-segment systems in Australia; providing competitive support programs and targeted initiatives to address market failures in all industries, particularly by facilitating research and development, innovation and investment; and managing space-related national security issues.
Anstraiiaii Go\:ernment Space Forum
The Government's space related activities and objectives are implemented across a range of government agencies, with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources (DITR) having prime responsibility for 'civil space' issues. Whole-of-Government liaison occurs through the Australian Government Space Forum, comprising representatives from Australian Government agencies with space-related responsibilities and interests. The Forum does not supplant the space policy and program development and delivery authority vested in individual government agencies. More information is at www.industry.gov.au/space
The Forum's role is to:
exchange and coordinate the dissemination of information about Australian Government space-related space policies, programs and activities; identify issues that would benefit from a collaborative approach amongst Australian Government agencies; be an initial point of contact for domestic and international queries about Australian Government space activities; and be a source of expertise or referral on space-related matters upon which Government agencies can draw as required. 1 3. Australian Government Space Related Activities
The Government's space activities fall under four broad themes. These are:
Ensuring access to space services; Supporting world-class science and research related to space, consistent with national priorities; Growing Australia's space industry; and Safeguarding Australia's national security.
Ensuring access to space scr.crices
Australians make extensive use of the services that space activity provides, such as communications and broadcasting, environmental and natural resource management, weather forecasting, navigation and timing services. Ensuring access to space-derived information and services contributes to the Government's strategic, economic and social objectives.
Australians use three primary space services:
Each of these services does not depend exclusively on space-based technology. There are competing or complementary ground-based and/or airborne services which also address these needs. The mechanisms to manage Australian Government interests in the provision of these services are therefore arranged around each service, rather than around the technology used to deliver these services. The Australian Government also has mechanisms to manage cross-cutting issues (such as 'space weather') which affect all uses of space.
Satellites make an important contribution to the global communications network, providing broadcasting and telecommunications services.
Space-based communications operate substantially as a commercial activity. The Australian Government is a major user of space-based communications, and purchases a range of services from commercial operators.
The Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts (DCITA) is responsible for providing policy advice on the radiocommunications regulatory framework. DCITA works with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), which manages spectrum allocation and regulates radio and telecommunications, essential to support Australia's growing space sector. Satellite navigation and positioning provided by Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are integral to a wide range of sectors in the Australian economy. Applications include: land, sea and air navigation; timing; commerce; agriculture; mining; water catchment and environmental management; tracking of vehicles; in-car navigation systems; and recreational uses.
Specific examples of Australian involvement in GNSS include:
Geoscience Australia (GA) uses data from its GPS network to position Australia daily within the global reference system and in'turn, to monitor the movement of the Australian continent (about 1.5 mm per day). GA also uses satellite laser ranging stations to measure to the GPS satellites themselves as quality control on their orbits.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has a network of 50 upper air stations that provide a range of data, including atmospheric upper-wind profiles. These wind data, important in weather forecasting, are calculated by tracking an ascending weather balloon as it moves with the wind currents. Sixteen of the stations use GPS technology to track the balloons.
Data from Earth observation have many uses, including meteorological, scientific, environmental management, agricultural, geospatial, emergency management, national security and commercial.
Geoscience Australia operates Australia's principal Earth resource satellite ground station and data processing facility. The agency's goal is to maintain and periodically refresh a comprehensive archive of Earth observation data to help ensure that fundamental geographic information is available for the benefit of the Australian community.
In 2005, the Australian Government signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding with the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency, granting Geoscience Australia the rights to acquire and distribute data from the Japanese Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS) in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific Islands. In 2006, Geoscience Australia became the first of only three receiving stations outside of Japan to acquire and process ALOS data. ALOS will provide an alternative source of data and a level of back-up should the Landsat 5 satellite fail. Currently, a number of government and community agencies in Australia rely on Landsat satellite data to deliver their program objectives.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) operates satellite ground stations to receive meteorological and environmental satellite data and to help position satellites, as part of the World Meteorological Organization's World Weather Watch system through which data are exchanged globally, free of charge. BoM uses satellite and related data and systems in performing the functions of a National Meteorological Service.
BoM assists the national meteorological services of Asia-Pacific countries, especially developing economies, and has been involved in exporting and installing satellite ground stations in the Philippines, Fiji and Bangladesh. BoM has also co-sponsored, with Japan, China and the World Meteorological Organization, education and training programs in satellite meteorology for less technologically advanced countries. In collaboration with Japan, BoM has made available Computer Aided Learning systems and helped Asia-Pacific countries to use satellite data for environmental and weather monitoring. Australia is dependent on space technology for many of its services, its information and security. Space 'weather' conditions can affect radiocommunications, navigation, power supply and geophysical exploration, and through these, can affect public safety, information services, defence, industrial processes and transport.
IPS Radio and Space Services acts as the Australian Space Weather Agency, providing the Australian national radio propagation and space weather services. Its space related responsibilities include:
providing space weather services to customers in government and private sectors; monitoring the space environment; providing policy advice relating to the influence of the space environment on technology; archiving space environment data for the purpose of research and services; training in the mitigation of space weather effects on systems; and providing support for international and domestic research into the space environment.
The Australian Government's international collaboration includes exchanging space data with other nations (e.g. for meteorology); hosting or participating in ground station networks (e.g. Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex); negotiating bilateral cooperative arrangements, often involving the provision or sharing of ground facilities (e.g. with the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), European Space Agency (ESA) and the international astronomy community); engaging in multilateral forums (e.g. United Nations Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space); and observing international arrangements (e.g. United Nations Space Conventions, Missile Technology Control Regime).
Australians Using Space
Australia makes widespread use of space technologies, ranging from precision farming to gathering training data on athletes. Following are some examples illustrating the diversity of these uses.
Earth Observation
Precision images projected from satellites allow us to predict changes in crop yields, measure sea surface temperatures and track bushfires.
An Australian based company has successfully commercialised a government consortium- developed technology called 'Pastures from Space' which allows farmers to download and analyse their pasture growth rates from satellite-derived data.
The CSIRO, in collaboration with the National Oceans Office, have utilised new satellite imagery to track changes in sea surface temperatures in Australia's oceans. The research will assist marine scientists and the fishing industry in understanding ocean variability for the sustainable planning and management of marine industries and the impact of climate change.
The Sentinel fire mapping system obtains data from the NASA Earth observation satellite 'Terra'. It is an internet-based mapping tool that provides timely fire location data to emergency service managers across Australia. Global Navigation Satellite Systems
The GPS Global Navigation Satellite System is used extensively in Australia for positioning and navigation.
An Australian company specialising in GPS technologies for sport has developed a device which uses satellites to transmit athletes' training data. The system can record and store athletes' times, distances, speed, altitude, direction and heart rate.
The Birds of Australia Atlas Project used GPS to locate and record the presence of different bird species. As a result, 4000 distribution maps were produced for more than 650 bird species.
CSIRO Marine Research, in conjunction with the Aquarium of Western Australia, used satellite tracking to monitor white shark movements, with tags on the sharks transmitting population and behavioural information to researchers.
Satellite Communications
The Australian community benefits from the use of satellite telecommunications technologies.
An interactive e-learning initiative in New South Wales and the Northern Territory uses satellite technology to streamline distance education for remote areas of Australia. The initiative, funded through the Australian Government's National Communications Fund and supported with in- kind and financial contributions from the project's partners, enables students to participate in group discussions, share course materials online, enjoy high-speed internet and email chat facilities and an interactive electronic whiteboard.
Following the Bali bombings in 2002, an Australian satellite service provider installed a satellite communications system for the Australian Federal Police (AFP). The company supplied and installed a 2.4m satellite ground station, including a transceiver and satellite modem, to provide high speed communication from the Intelsat ground station at Oxford Falls, New South Wales, back to AFP headquarters in Canberra.
Srrpporting worlld-class science and research related to space, consistent with national priorities
Australia has a strong science and research base in niche areas related to space, with an international reputation in the application of Earth observation data, astronomy, geodesy and geomagnetic observation, and near space science (including ionospheric observation and prediction). An analysis of Australian research papers and citations over the period 2001 - 2005, published by the Thomson Corporation in May 2006, has found that Australia excels in space science and geoscience. Papers by Australian authors are cited well above international average rates. Australian space science (including astronomy) is cited 38 per cent more than the global average.
Given the significant costs associated with many research activities related to space, international collaboration can provide opportunities to share the effort and risks and achieve critical mass required for large-scale projects. Australia values such collaboration where it can contribute to achieving national objectives, but weighs up the costs, benefits and risks before taking decisions to enter into international partnerships. The risks can include program slippage, cost escalation and unilateral decisions by international parties that may not be in the interests of all partners. Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer - AATSR
The Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR) is an imaging radiometer primarily designed to measure global sea surface temperature to the high levels of accuracy and stability required for climate research and modelling. The prime scientific objective of AATSR is to contribute to climate research. AATSR is also engaged in remote-sensing of land surfaces, particularly vegetation and also produces high quality visible and thermal images.
AATSR was launched in March 2002 aboard the European Earth observation satellite ENVISAT. The $40 million AATSR is the product of collaboration by Australian and UK scientists. With a $13m investment by the Australian Government, it represented a major Australian contribution to developing an international scientific instrument.
Over several decades, Australia has played a prominent role in space-related science and exploration through international collaboration and cooperation. Examples include contribution of space tracking facilities to support NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) space exploration programs.
In astronomy, Australians regularly make significant discoveries, particularly in collaboration with international colleagues. For example, the CSIRO's Australia Telescope National Facility (ATNF) and NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory observed a 'mini-black hole' in the Milky Way Galaxy (Science, 4 October 2002). And in January 2005, the ATNF radio telescopes and those of the University of Tasmania, along with 12 other telescopes in the USA, China and Japan, were used to track the European Space Agency (ESA) Huygens probe as it descended on to the surface of Saturn's moon, Titan. The data collected by the ATNF and other international telescopes was then transmitted to the Netherlands for central processing.
Research and development, and operational activities in space science and remote sensing, are also undertaken by the Bureau of Meteorology, which exemplifies Australian contributions to the international application of space for peaceful purposes. These include diverse uses such as satellite monitoring of the genesis, movement and decay of weather systems like tropical cyclones, monitoring ocean temperatures or volcanic ash clouds, and assimilating satellite observations of winds, temperature and moisture into supercomputer weather prediction models.
Science and research related to space are important elements of Australia's wider scientific and research effort. Although space is not a specific research priority for Australia, space-related research can contribute to the four National Research Priorities announced by the Prime Minister in December 2002.
The Australian Government's National Research Priorities are:
an environmentally sustainable Australia; promoting and maintaining good health; frontier technologies for building and transforming Australian industries; and safeguarding Australia. Australia's excellence in areas of space-related science and research is underpinned by its overall strong science, research and innovation capacity, and strong international engagement on science, education and training. The Australian Government's objectives for investing in science and research include:
enhancing innovation performance through a strengthened science and technology base; strengthening and diversifying national and international linkages and collaboration; strengthening the ability of the higher education sector to generate and use new knowledge; raising the quality of Australia's international engagement in education, research and training; and enhancing research and development in key national priority areas.
Funding for fundamental and applied science and research is available through a range of Australian Government programs, usually on a competitive basis.
The Australian Research Council's (ARC) National Competitive Grants Program funds university research and collaborative research partnerships. The Discovel-y element of the program funds individual researchers and projects. The Linkage element helps to broker partnerships between researchers and industry, government and community organisations as well as the international community. The ARC Cenfreselement builds research scale and focus and strengthens major research partnerships and networks. An example of excellent space-related research supported by ARC funding is the HyShot scramjet project based at the University of Queensland.
The Australian Government also contributes to space science research through funding the Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Program. For example, space plays a central role in the CRC for Spatial Information. Through the CRC Program and an Auslndustry innovation program, the Australian Government also contributed about $22m over the seven year operational period of the CRC for Satellite Systems (CRCSS), which was established in 1998 and concluded in 2005. The CRCSS constructed the Australian satellite FedSat, which was intended to establish and demonstrate Australian capability in micro-satellite technologies. FedSat was launched successfully in December 2002. In January 2006, Fedsat's operation was transferred to the Department of Defence, one of the original CRCSS stakeholders, which will use FedSat for a range of scientific research and experimental activities, as well as to train its staff in the control of satellites.
Australia invests millions of dollars each year in astronomy. Since 2002, the Australian Government has awarded more than $50 million to research projects in the astronomical sciences under the National Competitive Grants Program. In addition to astronomy conducted by Australian universities, significant research, development and operations in space-related fields are conducted in CSIRO, including:
ground-based radio astronomy through the Australia Telescope National Facility (ATNF); spacecraft tracking operations both through ATNF and on behalf of NASA at the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex; support for scientific ballooning activities; Earth observation applications and data reception, through the Earth Observation Centre and other units of CSIRO; and satellite antenna and systems development.
The Australian Government also contributes to the operations of the Anglo-Australian Observatory, ATNF, Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex and, through the Major National Research Facilities Program, to Australia's participation in the development of the international Gemini Telescope and Square Kilometre Array projects.
The International Science and Technology component of the Innovation Access Program (IAP- IS&T) provides support for travel and workshops associated with international collaborative projects. Such programs are not specific to space-based projects, and funding applications are assessed competitively against program criteria. In 2006, an IAP-IS&T Round 10 grant of more than $280,000 was awarded to the University of Melbourne to develop a low frequency demonstrator telescope in conjunction with US partners, for the next generation radio astronomy telescope, the Square Kilometre Array.
HyShotMyCause Scramjet Project
Scramjets are air-breathing supersonic combustion ramjet engines which may find use in high- speed aerospace applications and space launch systems. Scramjets have the added benefit of not having to carry most of their propellant, since they use oxygen from the atmosphere.
The Australian Research Council has contributed $3.4m for the Hyshot scramjet project. The Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources provided $80,000 under the APEC Market Integration and Industrial Collaboration Program and $17,400 under the Innovation Access Program towards the HyShot project.
The Hyshot project is an international collaboration involving researchers from Australia (University of Queensland Centre for Hypersonics), the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Korea and Japan. The first successful HyShot test launch took place in July 2002 from Woomera, South Australia. The test launch was a world first for the collection of supersonic combustion data from a scramjet under flight conditions. The launch was designed to take the scramjet engine to a speed of Mach 7.6 (or more than seven times the speed of sound) for the successful experiment, which took place in the last few seconds of the 10 minute flight.
In 2003, a Memorandum of Understanding established the Australian Hypersonics Initiative (AHI), a partnership formalising the cooperative relationship between Australian organisations which participate in hypersonics research and development. The AH1 partner organisations are: the University of Queensland; the Australian National University; the University of NSW at the Australian Defence Force Academy; and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), along with the State Governments of South Australia and Queensland.
This collaboration has led to the AUD$4.6 million (US$3.4 million) Hypersonic Collaborative AustralianIUS Experiment (HyCause) agreement between the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and AHI. Two more scramjet test flights were conducted at Woomera under the HyCause program in March 2006.
In November 2006, the DSTO and the United States Air Force established an eight-year, US$54 million Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) project to further advance research into hypersonic flight. The HIFiRE project, which will also involve other AH1 partners, will see up to ten hypersonic flight experiments conducted at Woomera over the next five years. Growiag Australia's Space Industry
The Australian Government's industry policy and related programs are built around the four key drivers of economic growth:
Innovation Investment International competitiveness Global integration.
The Government provides support programs addressing market failures and impediments to these drivers of growth, which apply to industries including the space industry. The Government also undertakes specific interventions in support of the space sector (e.g. project-specific investment incentives, establishing legislative regimes, negotiating treaties). Around the world, government procurement, including defence procurement, is an important market driver for building space industry capability and competitiveness.
The Australian space industry consists of mostly small-to-medium enterprises, operating in niche fields, as well as a few larger companies. Even with Australia's competitive advantages (including a stable political environment, well-educated and skilled workforce, a large southern hemisphere landmass, and niche space capabilities and technological expertise) it remains a mid- level player in the global space market. The high costs and risks of participating in space suggest that Australia's positioning as a global player is unlikely to change significantly in the future.
The Australian space industry has strengths in niche areas, including:
satellite operations and services; signal and data processing; space instrumentation; ground station equipment and design; space debris tracking; use of Earth observation data; GPS applications; some propulsion technologies; and astronomy spin-offs e.g. ground antennae, detection equipment.
Industry is supported by a well-developed services sector, providing legal, financial, insurance and other business services. Australia has the potential to build on its niche strengths and target global supply chains where commercially sustainable demand exists or is emerging.
Australia's space infrastructure does not currently include launch vehicle manufacturing capability, operational orbital launch facilities, or any large-scale satellite manufacturing capability. The Australian Government has undertaken targeted interventions to facilitate commercially sustainable space launch proposals. Several proposals have been put forward over a number of years to use Australia as base for commercial space launches and for Australian firms to provide internationally competitive launch services. The role of the Australian Government has involved negotiating treaty level and other inter-governmental arrangements, often to facilitate deployment of sensitive dual-use launch technologies for peaceful purposes.
There are currently two proposals to develop commercial launch facilities in Australia - by Rocketplane Kistler and the Asia Pacific Space Centre (APSC). In 1998, the Australian Government entered into an Operations Agreement with Kistler to provide a licensing framework for a project to operate a reusable launch vehicle from Woomera in South Australia.
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The Australian Government has introduced the Space Activities Act 1998 and related ,Ypace Activities Regulations 2001. These provide a comprehensive space safety regulatory regime providing for civil space launches and returns and related industry development. The Government established the Space Licensing and Safety Office to regulate space activities under the Act. The Act and Regulations are administered by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources, which is responsible for civil space matters.
The Australian Government supports the space industry on its merits through the generally available competitive programs. There is no dedicated space industry support program because space industry development issues are similar to those faced by other high-technology areas (e.g. aerospace, electronics, advanced manufacturing, systems and software engineering, defence industries) and are addressed by the available generic programs.
A number of competitive programs administered by Auslndustry within the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources are available to the space industry. The programs generally address market failures in R&D, commercialisation and investment and include:
Commercialising Emerging Technologies Program (COMET) Innovation Investment Fund (IIF) Pooled Development Funds Venture Capital Limited Partnerships Commercial Ready Program
See www.ausindustry.gov.au for more information on AusIndustry products. Access by the Space Industry to Australian Government Industry Innovation Programs
Space industry firms have received support under a range of industry innovation programs administered by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources. Since 1996, more than $30 million has been provided to space-related projects, including satellite systems and communications, satellite imaging, GPS applications, space debris tracking and international collaboration. The projects demonstrate Australia's position as a sophisticated user of space. They highlight our ability to contribute to space in a way that builds on our strengths in the areas of ground support infrastructure, communications and data analysis and down-stream exploitation. Examples include:
I DSpace Pty Ltd DSpace is an Adelaide-based company specialising in data communications and is an acknowledged authority in signal processing for satellite communications. DSpace has created and assembled enabling technologies which collectively make the fully mobile, high-end consumer market in high-speed satellite data communications a reality.
Since 2000, DSpace has received the following support from the Australian Government:
2006 - $1.65 million Commercial Ready grant for commercialisation of mobile satellite modems; 2004 - $1.2 million via R&D Start; 2002 - $5 million Innovation Investment Fund capital (combined private & Government); 2001 - $100,000 for advanced satellite modems via Comet; and 2000 - $1.1 million for satellite based mobile internet access, via R&D Start.
Further information on DSpace can be found at: www.dspace.com.au
Electro Optic Systems (EOS) Pty Ltd
EOS develops and produces products incorporating advanced electro-optic technologies for the aerospace market, focusing on space surveillance and control. EOS specialises in space information based on the use of EOS-developed instruments and sensors to detect, track, classify and characterise objects such as satellites and debris in space.
EOS operates a space debris tracking system at its Mt Stromlo Space Research Centre in the ACT. In 2004, EOS also provided Geoscience Australia with a Satellite Laser Ranging facility at Mt Stromlo, under a long-term contract for the provision of laser tracking data by EOS to Geoscience Australia.
To support its space business, EOS also develops and produces a wide range of space-related infrastructure in the form of sub-systems, such as telescopes and beam directors. EOS is widely known as the largest producer of major optical telescopes in the world.
EOS has received the following support from the Australian Government:
2004 $8.4 million via R&D Start for laser de-orbiting of space debris; 2001 $2.8 million via R&D Start for laser tracking of space debris.
I Further information on EOS can be found at: www.eos-aus.com The Australian Government has introduced a concessional item in the Customs TariffAct 1995 (Item 69 space concession) which enables the duty free entry to Australia of certain space-related goods for use in authorised space projects.
Demand is growing for satellite communication and broadcasting services such as direct to home TV subscription, remote and rural communications and broadband. Commercial investment in new satellites is substantially dependent on demand for satellite based services, and satellite operators must compete with terrestrial delivery of these services.
As an advanced nation, with large land and associated marine areas, possessing important natural resource industries and with an educated population, Australia is well positioned to contribute to innovative applications of space data and techniques to a wide variety of problems of practical interest (e.g. agricultural and environmental management). Future opportunities for Australian companies are likely to come from building on existing niche capabilities and targeting involvement in global supply chains.
Using space services and participating in global supply chains requires a competitive capability to support access to, and manipulation and use of, space-derived data. Such activities need skilled workers and engineers, scientific and research expertise, a sound business environment, support for investment in R&D and innovation, effective capital markets and so on. This offers R&D and commercial opportunities in a number of fields, such as signal detection and processing, software engineering, high performance computing, satellite operations and services, space instrumentation, ground station equipment and design, debris tracking, use of Earth observation data and global positioning applications. Australia has capability in these areas. Safeguarding Australia's National Security
In 2002, the Government announced National Security, Defence and Counter-Terrorism as a Government Strategic Priority, and Safeguarding Australia as a National Research Priority. See www.defence.gov.au/whitepaper/ and www.dest.gov.au/priorities for further details of these priorities. More information on Australian national security issues is at www.nationalsecurity.gov.au
Space infrastructure, science, research and technologies contribute significantly to achieving Australia's national security objectives. For instance, space is important to the Australian Defence Force for providing data on meteorology, positioning, intelligence, timing, mapping and communications. Data are obtained for these purposes from a range of allied, commercial and defence resources under various arrangements. On 20 June 2006, the Minister for Defence, the Hon Dr Brendan Nelson MP, announced greater funding for the Australian Defence Force's military satellite communications capability. As part of the Defence Capability Plan 2006 - 201 6, more than $1 billion is to be invested in next generation satellite and ground station infrastructure to ensure continuity of service and flexibility through digital content.
National security concerns include the proliferation of launch vehicle technology. There is also increasing competition for the finite bandwidth resources necessary for data to be transmitted to and from space.
The Australian Government has initiatives in place to safeguard Australia's access to space- sourced data. Examples are:
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has responsibility to take action when licensed space-related frequencies experience interference. For example, in 2004 the ACMA amended the Radiocommunications Act 1992 to prohibit devices that can be used to jam signals of GPS and other radio-navigation satellite services. Data are routinely collected to assist in discriminating between the effects of natural phenomena and intentional interference. Research is sponsored for data management, component design and other innovations designed to protect data and optimise the likelihood of successful transmissions. A communications payload owned by the Department of Defence on-board the Optus C1 satellite permits military access to space communications in support of operations and other security-related requirements within Australia's geographic region.
The Australian Government will maintain a focus on acquiring appropriate protective capabilities in conjunction with broader investment priorities. The Government will also maintain its awareness of existing and emerging strategic, technological and related developments that might impact on its access to space-sourced data.
The Australian Government's capacity to meet its space security challenges will depend in part upon the availability of high quality research and development, supported by an innovative Australian space industry. There will continue to be a strong and mutually supportive relationship between Australian Government agencies involved in space and the relevant components of academia and industry. These arrangements, along with established international alliances, with the United States in particular, will support Australia's future national security in the space arena. Space Industry Contribution to National Security
Auspace Ltd is an Australian engineering company serving the scientific, commercial and defence communities in space engineering, communications, and associated technologies and systems. The company has made significant world-leading achievements and has project experience in the fields of aerospace, science, commercial and defence in space, airborne and ground-based systems.
Auspace successfully completed a Capability Technology Demonstrator (CTD) project in 2004, co-funded by the Department of Defence to the value of $2.5 million, and by Auspace to the value of $2.0 million. This CTD outcome supported Defence's strategic requirement for self- reliance in certain national capabilities and specifically in the area of advanced satellite modem technology.
Work is now underway toward a production version of the software-defined satellite modem known as the Defence Multi Mode Modem (DM3), and a pre-production model will be available for demonstration in mid-2007. The modem supports backward compatibility with legacy waveforms, interoperability with coalition waveforms, an efficient secure IP-based waveform, a waveform supporting assured delivery, and a waveform to support satellite coordination planning. These waveforms, together with the design capability and programmable nature of the modem, offer the Department of Defence both a significant and an evolving capability. The DM3 modem is world competitive in the area of satellite modem technology and offers both an in-country design authority and a future proofed capability. The DM3 was entirely developed within Australia by Australians.
Auspace is a recognised authority in satellite communications, signal processing, earth observation and space system technologies and enjoys export sales of its advanced waveform implementation services.
More information on Auspace can be found at: www.auspace.com.au