Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Women) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Bernardi for his question and a small amount of notice. Senator Bernardi, I have sought advice from the department and I can advise as follows. You are correct that this review was commissioned by the former minister, Minister Pyne. On 24 October 2015, the government announced a review of the Space Activities Act 1998. By way of background for senators, the act establishes a system for the regulation of space activities carried out either from Australia or by Australian nationals overseas. As the government is taking active steps—as Senator Bernardi has pointed out—to promote and develop the space industry in Australia, the review process was an important element of this work. Senator Bernardi also noted the involvement of Professor Steven Freeland, a pre-eminent figure in the field of space law. Senator Bernardi, I am also advised that this review was run by the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, who engaged Professor Freeland as a consultant with expertise in the field. I am also advised that the department is rigorous in its processes when conducting such reviews. I am also advised—

Senator Ian Macdonald interjecting—