You need a return authorisation (overseas payload) if you are an Australian national who is
- returning a space object outside Australia; and
- the space object to be returned will be carried as a payload by another space object that does not require a return authorisation.
Alternatively, if you are returning a space object to Australia, or if your overseas payload return is not carried by another object that does not require a return authorisation, you need a return authorisation (standard return).
The Australian Space Agency's National Space Safety Office (NSSO) can provide advice and guidance on whether you need a return authorisation and how to apply.
Process
You initiate a New Application in the Regulatory Applications Hub and submit general information about you, your organisation and your planned space activities. You then submit your application form and any other documents you choose to provide. Guidance about what information you should provide can be found in the latest guidelines, above.
NOTE Submission of a New Application is not the beginning of an application assessment.
We check your application contains sufficient information in accordance with the Act and General Rules for an overseas payload return authorisation.
If your application is considered complete, we will accept the application and commence assessment.
If we consider your application incomplete, we will notify you and provide feedback. We take an iterative approach to the application process and understand there may be several iterations before an application is considered complete and accepted to undergo assessment.
We assess your application against the criteria to ensure that all arrangements to be put in place are adequate, relevant, and appropriate for the proposed return of your space object. We may request further information.
During the assessment process we consult with federal, state and territory authorities to see if there is any reason a standard return authorisation should not be granted. Reasons may include Australian security, defence, or international relations. We may request further information.
When there is sufficient evidence you meet criteria for granting a return authorisation, we make recommendations to the Minister (or their delegate).
The Minister (or delegate) decides whether to grant the return authorisation, taking into consideration advice from the Agency.
The Minister has discretion to seek further information from applicants and return authorisation holders.
Costs and timelines
There are no fees for applying for a return authorisation, or for having your application assessed.
Application timelines are typically about 3 months from when you have submitted sufficient information to commence the application process.
For more information, download and read the latest guidelines available at the top of this page.
Application criteria include
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competence
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insurance and financial coverage
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safety of design, construction, and operation (including flight path) aligning with Flight Safety Code
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Australia’s security, defence, or international relations
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whether your object is or contains a nuclear weapon or weapon of mass destruction
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if applicable, the terms of agreement or arrangement between Australia and the launching State.
For more information, download and read the latest guidelines available at the top of this page.
Submit your application form
Find the application form at the top of this page
Submit your completed application form, along with relevant material, via the Regulatory Application Hub.
