Australia says it's Lost In Space

William Atkins
Wednesday, 12 November 2008 21:02

Science - Space

Australia’s report “Lost in Space? Setting a new direction for Australia's space science and industry sector” may mean that a national space program will soon be established to coordinate the country's various space-related projects.


The report—made by the Senate Standing Committee on Economics—states that “… Australia's involvement in space science and industry has drifted and the sense of purpose has been lost."

"The committee heard of the surprise expressed by some overseas observers that Australia has no space programme or agency and, other than for communications, is reliant on satellites owned by other countries.”

It goes on to say, “The committee believes it is not good enough for Australia to be lost in space. It is time to set some clear directions. The Australian government should have a space policy and, like most other comparable countries, an agency to implement it."

And, "The global space industry generates global revenues of around US$250 billion per annum, and Australia should be playing a larger role.”

The full Report is found at the Parliament of Australia APH.gov website (287 KB pdf file).

The Report states that the Australian government should create a Space Industry Advisory Council to coordinate the creation of a national space agency.

Page two contains information from the Australian media organization The Herald Sun.