Buried on page 239 of the Australia in the Asian Century White Paper provides an interesting few paragraphs on space related technology, and the growing importance in Asia.
Whilst the reference is fairly small, it shows an increasing understanding and importance placed within the Australian government on space related issues. It also makes an interesting reference to continuing investment in Australia's space-related ground infrastructure. Perhaps this will feature in the upcoming policy.
The Space Paragraphs:
Space-related technologies, such as those used to observe the Earth from space, are
increasingly important for security, environmental and commercial interests. In the
maritime domain, for example, information from space can provide essential data for
anti-piracy measures, fisheries enforcement and environmental operations. Advanced
space-enabled positioning systems, which are highly accurate and based on existing
systems such as the global positioning system maintained by the US Government, are
driving innovation in the logistics, agriculture, construction and other sectors.
Some regional countries are increasing their investment in space technology. For
example, India, China and Japan are flying satellite missions and are developing
independent satellite positioning systems. And Vietnam is investing US$600 million in
a space technology centre in the Hoa Lac hi-tech zone in Hanoi.
Protection of this space-based and space-related infrastructure will become
increasingly necessary.
Australia’s regional connections, geographical location and long-term engagement on
space issues position us well. However, we need to continue our investment in
space-related ground infrastructure to capitalise on our location and ensure that our
capabilities remain relevant.
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