Gowri Kangeson

In this ongoing series, DLA Piper examines how space regulation and commercial activity are developing across jurisdictions worldwide. Read about related developments in other countries – including perspectives on the European Union’s Space Act – on the firm’s landing page. Amid the expansion of the global space industry (projected by Novaspace to reach USD944 billion by 2033), Australia has recently welcomed several key developments aimed at strengthening its space capabilities and operations.

[co-author: Cassie Munnelly] Recent reforms in Australia have strengthened its legislative framework to address growing concerns over foreign bribery and corruption. However, the introduction of the “failure to prevent” foreign bribery offense has put Australian corporations on alert to sufficiently adapt their compliance policies. This article provides a concise overview of key bribery offenses in Australia, guidance on adequate procedures, and the reach of Australia’s foreign bribery laws.

Australia enjoys a reputation as one of the world’s least corrupt nations. Transparency International’s 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index ranked Australia 13th of 180 countries with a score of 75/100. However, this score is a noticeable decline from the country’s 2012 score of 79/100 (and rank of seventh). Understanding appears to be growing that Australia needs to pay closer attention to its anti-corruption and integrity framework, and the federal government is taking action.