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Australia is making ‘space’ for legal professionals
The legal field becomes of emerging importance as the country's space sector continues to expand.
Jessica Penny
Space law is now a “genuine area of work”, according to a research associate in space law and policy at Flinders University.
Mr Lisk believes that the increasing demand comes from the evolution of Australia's space business.
“There are amazing opportunities now for lawyers who understand the background of the space economy, who understand what space businesses are, have that ability to understand foreign legal frameworks, and realise that things are more globalised than they used to be.
“There are law firms now here in Australia who are developing capabilities as to how to address these questions.”
He explained that lawyers looking to specialise in the industry must move forward with the perspective that “space businesses are just like any other business”.
“You can advise a new space company on how they're going to get to the moon and do amazing things, but if you forget to advise them about their tax obligations, it's not going to last very long. Not as fun, not as exciting, not as riveting as space technology, but it's just as important.”
Mr Lisk went on to say that professionals who are growing Australia’s capabilities in the sector need “realistic, competent, and really advanced advice on a range of issues, including space. But, space is just one of many different factors.”
There are a diverse array of legal professions that have the ability to consult and work within the sector, he continued.
“Accountants, financiers, business advisers, marketing consultants, management consultants... All these people who have that ability to understand and traverse the space economy now are being put in a position to advise new customers, new businesses and start-ups on how to leverage their technology to their advantage.”
Mr Lisk looks forward to the progression of space law amongst increasing support and funding behind national projects.
“We have the capability here in Australia to provide these services to the world.”
“It's been great to see the coordination efforts, especially out of the space agency here in Australia, to help trigger the industry and help them understand that there is a way forward, and there is a way for them to contribute to the space sector without having to go to Florida or to California. You can do it right here,” he concluded.
