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.
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 relevant application form at the top of this page.
- NOTE: If you are also applying for a return authorisation (overseas payload) where the payload is the same object, you may use the combined application form found on the overseas payload permit page.
- Submit your completed application form, along with relevant material, via the Regulatory Application Hub.
Find the application form at the top of this page
Submit your completed application form, along with relevant material, via the Regulatory Application Hub.
Main image caption: DLR's MAPHEUS®-17 sounding rocket lifted off from the Swedish Esrange Space Center on 1 October 2026. It carried a HAEMBIOSPACE biomedical research payload that exposed human stem cell cultures to microgravity for cancer biology research.
Credit: DLR (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)
