Australia has officially endorsed the European Cooperation for Space Standardization (ECSS) for use in domestic space projects — marking a significant step towards strengthening space capabilities and operations.
The initiative is led by Standards Australia, specifically its SV-001 Committee and is supported by the Australian Space Agency. The move aligns the country with globally recognised standards that foster innovations and opens doors to international collaboration. ECSS provides a comprehensive framework for space activities and is increasingly used around the world.
By embracing these standards, Australia reinforces its commitment to safer, more sustainable, and globally compatible space operations.
With the global space economy projected to exceed $1.6 trillion (USD $1.1 trillion) by 2040, this alignment positions Australia to significantly contribute to the global space industry.
The announcement follows Australia’s successful hosting of the 76th International Astronautical Congress in Sydney, which welcomed over 7,500 delegates from 99 countries. Under the theme “Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth,” the Congress showcased Australia’s leadership in space innovation and collaboration, including a mandate to negotiate a Cooperative Agreement with the European Space Agency.
The endorsement of ECSS will strengthen the Australian space sector by:
- Ensuring safer, more reliable missions.
- Enabling international collaboration and supply chain access.
- Supporting sustainability and environmental outcomes.
To support the national space sector, Standards Australia has published a resource for the industry to refer to, including aspects of space operations from design and development to mission execution and end-of-life disposal.
The resource was developed through extensive work by Standards Australia’s Committee on Space Systems and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems. This committee comprised of Australian Space Agency officials as well as several Australian space sector partners, including:
- ANU Institute for Space
- CSIRO
- Engineers Australia
- Fleet Space
- NSW Government
- Skykraft
- SmartsatCRC
- Queensland University of Technology
- University of South Australia
- UNSW Canberra
Learn more about the recommendations
To support the national space sector, Standards Australia has published a resource for the industry.
