LEOSats - the Australian policy state of play

LEOSats are poised to transform regional connectivity, provided they are integrated into the broader Australian telco ecosystem.

Heath Gibson · Executive Manager – Industry Intelligence and Insights at NBN Australia7 June 2024Period: Q2 20244 min read

33%↑

Predicted annual growth in satellite capacity (2024-2030)

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Key focus areas identified by the LEOSat Working Group

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Abstract

This report examines the evolving policy landscape for Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats) in Australia following the 2024 Australasia Satellite Forum. It highlights the Federal government's focus on using LEOSats to meet the Universal Service Obligation (USO) and improve digital inclusion in remote areas. The brief details five key focus areas from the LEOSat Working Group, including direct-to-device (D2D) capabilities and emergency resilience, while noting that commercial integration with local operators remains critical for long-term success.

Key Takeaways

LEOSats are essential for meeting the communications needs of regional and remote Australians but require integration into the existing telco ecosystem.
The LEOSat Working Group recommends trialing satellite services in First Nations communities to address Digital Inclusion and Closing the Gap Target 17.
Satellite capacity in the Asia-Pacific region is projected to grow at 33% per annum through 2030, driven by Amazon Kuiper, SES, and OneWeb.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Satellite capacity in the Asia-Pacific is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 33% through 2030. This expansion is underpinned by the entry of major constellations including Amazon Kuiper, SES, and OneWeb.

The Federal government is leveraging LEOSats to fulfill the Universal Service Obligation and meet Closing the Gap Target 17 regarding digital inclusion. The LEOSat Working Group, active since 2022, has identified five strategic focus areas to integrate these satellites into the national telecommunications framework.

Direct-to-device (D2D) technology currently offers lower bandwidth than fixed LEOSat broadband and is primarily prioritized for emergency resilience. It remains one of the five key focus areas for policy-makers looking to enhance safety in regional areas where traditional coverage is absent.

Policy-makers are evaluating supply-side cross-subsidies and direct end-user support to mitigate the high price points of LEOSat technology. These financial interventions are necessary to ensure that satellite services remain a viable alternative as NBN Co considers the future of its SkyMuster service.

LEOSats - the Australian policy state of play

Abstract

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

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