Space (Launches and Returns) Act 2018

The Launch Safety Officer for a launch or return of a space object may do all things that are reasonably necessary or convenient to be done for the performance of his or her functions.

In particular, the Launch Safety Officer may:

in relation to the launch of a space object from a launch facility in Australia—with the consent of the holder of the Australian launch permit, or of any person authorised by the holder to give that consent:

enter and inspect the facility and the space object if it is at the facility; and

inspect and test any other equipment at the facility; and

in relation to the launch of a space object from an aircraft where the aircraft is in Australia—with the consent of the holder of the Australian launch permit, or of any person authorised by the holder to give that consent, enter and inspect the aircraft and the space object if it is in or on the aircraft; and

ask the holder of the Australian launch permit or return authorisation, or any employee, agent or contractor of the holder, to give him or her any information or assistance, for which he or she reasonably asks, to assist in the proper performance of his or her functions; and

give any written directions about the launch of the space object carried out, or proposed to be carried out, that the Launch Safety Officer considers necessary to avoid any danger to persons or property, including directions to stop the launch or destroy the space object (whether before or after it is launched); and

give any written directions about the return of the space object that the Launch Safety Officer considers necessary to avoid any danger to persons or property, including directions to stop the return or destroy the space object.

A direction under paragraph (2)(c) or (d) may include a requirement relating to written notice to be given to the Launch Safety Officer of the action taken in response to the direction.

The Launch Safety Officer is not entitled to exercise any powers under this section at or on a launch facility or in or on an aircraft if:

the holder of the relevant Australian launch permit, or an employee or agent of the holder, has required the Launch Safety Officer to show identification; and

the Launch Safety Officer fails to comply with the requirement.

The Launch Safety Officer’s functions and powers do not entitle him or her to be involved in the normal business operations of the holder of a launch facility licence, Australian launch permit or return authorisation.

The Launch Safety Officer must give the Minister a copy of a direction the Launch Safety Officer gives under paragraph (2)(c) or (d). The Launch Safety Officer must do so within 10 business days after giving the direction.