Charge d'Affaires: Address to ICG18

 

Thank you, Minister Penk. Tena Katou Katoa and good morning everyone. My name is Amy Guihot and I’m the Deputy High Commissioner at the Australian High Commission.

 

It is a great honour to address you today as we gather for the 18^th meeting of the International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems. I would like to extend a special welcome to our distinguished guests and esteemed colleagues from around the world.

The joint hosting of this significant meeting by the Australian and New Zealand governments not only highlights our strong bilateral ties, but also underscores our commitment to international collaboration in advancing satellite navigation.

It’s important that we continue to support the work of multilateral and regional institutions as they develop and set the agreed rules, norms and international law that support our shared interests.

Coordination on civil Global Navigation Satellite Systems constellations is key to de-risking operations from issues such as signal interference, orbit management and end-of-life conventions.

Our coordination here ensures we don’t compromise the many Safety-of-Life applications that rely on GNSS, such as air traffic management, which many of you would have depended on to safely make your journey here.

Both Australia and New Zealand have long recognised the critical importance of satellite navigation system technology in providing accurate and reliable Position, Navigation, and Timing solutions to our region.

 

 

By pooling our resources, expertise, and innovative spirit, we are poised to make substantial contributions to the global satellite navigation landscape through the establishment of the SouthPAN program, which Minister Penk spoke about earlier. Our joint initiative aims to improve accuracy, reliability, and accessibility of positioning solutions across our region.

We know that Australians will benefit from SouthPAN - from precision agriculture to better access for the Royal Flying Doctor services in remote and rural regions; and much more. And New Zealanders will benefit too.

Australia recognises that the advantages we gain from programs like SouthPAN benefit directly from the efforts of the ICG community. Only through international cooperation can we achieve the compatibility, interoperability, and transparency necessary for the progress in satellite navigation.  

 

Australia's international collaborations in space capabilities continue to grow. This is shown by the significant new investment in LandSAT Earth observation capabilities and the development of our space sector. This includes the design of Australia’s first lunar rover as part of the Artemis Program.

 

Space plays a crucial role in achieving the Australian Government’s vision for a Future Made in Australia, enhancing national capability and strengthening international relations.

 

Australia is proud to have the opportunity to co-host this meeting and demonstrate our commitment to a future where international collaborations enable satellite navigation to continue driving economic growth, enhancing safety, and improving the quality of life for people around the world.

 

I wish you well in the fruitful discussions and collaborations that will undoubtedly arise from this gathering.

 

Thank you.