What a space licence is for
A space licence lets you operate one or more space stations. Space stations communicate with earth stations via a downlink.
This includes foreign satellites that communicate with earth stations in Australia.
To receive communications from an earth station via an uplink, you need a space receive licence.
If you have a space licence, you may not need to license the earth station.
To license the earth station instead, you need an earth licence.
The Radiocommunications (Interpretation) Determination 2015 defines space licences.
Frequencies for space stations
A space licence is an assigned licence.
You must license each space station if it uses a different frequency.
The communication with a space object class licence lets one or more earth stations receive communications on your assigned frequency.
You can only use the frequencies in the class licence if the owner or operator is listed in either of the following:
- Radiocommunications (Australian Space Objects) Determination 2014
- the Radiocommunications (Foreign Space Objects) Determination 2014
To use amateur satellite frequencies, you should apply for an amateur licence.
Licence conditions
We charge fees for apparatus licences.
In some circumstances, you can apply for a licence fee exemption or concession.
Apply for a space licence
To apply for a space licence you should contact an accredited person.
They can:
- assign you a frequency
- give you a frequency assignment certificate
- apply for your licence for you
Transfer a space licence
You can apply to:
- transfer your space licence to someone else