The Centre for Space, Cyberspace and Data Law

Our centre

The Centre for Space, Cyberspace & Data Law (CSCDL) brings together researchers and practitioners with unique expertise in all aspects of space law, cyberspace law and data law. The Centre engages in research in each of these areas, with a particular focus to develop and articulate a deep understanding of, and a more constructive direction for, the complex relationships between the domains of outer space, cyberspace and data flows.

The global community, and all elements of the world economy, civil society, national interests and commercial innovation, are integrated into, and reliant upon the functioning of each of these domains. At a time when outer space and digital infrastructure are therefore increasingly central to global security, development and cooperation, the Centre’s work is guided by a core theme: how can law and its associated policies in these domains be best utilised to promote and sustain peace.

The Centre also operates the Internet Law Research Clinic, providing law students with the opportunity to engage in advanced research tasks aligned with the Centre’s focus areas, and to contribute to research that informs policy, practice and the peaceful governance of emerging technologies.

Key focus areas

Peaceful governance of cyberspace
Safe, sustainable and peaceful uses of outer space
Data law for human dignity and social stability

Centre papers

Global content orders: A legal analysis of eSafety Commissioner by Professor Dan Jerker B. Svantesson

The dispute between the Australian eSafety Commissioner and X Corp. (formerly Twitter) in relation to an order requiring global removal of certain footage of a stabbing has brought attention to the topic of ‘scope of jurisdiction’.

Legal Implications of Intentional Interference with Space Signals by Kuan-Wei Chen

The jamming and spoofing of satellite signals are widespread occurrences. Due to the socio-economic, as well as security and strategic interests involved, interference with space signals is a serious concern for governments and space operators.

Internet Law Research Clinic

Enhancing the Efficacy of Internet Connectivity Legal Frameworks in the Asia-Pacific Region. Prepared by: Eugenia Georgiades, Francina Cantatore, Melanie Jackson, and Temitope Lawal

Volunteer Cyber Forces to Strengthen Australia's Defence

Funded by the Australian Department of Defence’s Strategic Policy Grants Program. Prepared by Dan Jerker B. Svantesson and Samuli Haataja.

How Do We Tackle Disinformation Online

This paper considers the some of key criticisms of the Communications Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 from stakeholders and whether there is another option for tackling the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation on digital platforms.

Australian Seniors Cyber Volunteer Force – Combining ‘will’ and ‘skill’

As part of a ‘whole-of-society’ approach to cyber defence, Australia would benefit from harnessing the substantial capabilities available from Australian seniors. This concept paper provides some initial thought about what that may entail.