Massey student represents New Zealand at global space conference

The SLC-ANZ is a not-for-profit body that promotes the study and development of space law and policy across Australia and New Zealand. Francesca was one of only two students selected through the programme and the only recipient from New Zealand. The sponsorship covered full attendance at the IAC, opportunities to meet members of the Council’s board and a year’s membership with the organisation.

“Attending the congress is an especially significant opportunity for me because New Zealand has very limited exposure to space law, especially at the student and graduate level,” Francesca says. “Being here has allowed me to access a niche, expanding field that is still almost non-existent in my academic environment back home.”

Francesca’s Master of Arts in Defence and Security Studies explores areas that closely intersect with space governance. Her thesis on bioterrorism in the context of emerging biotechnologies examines complex and evolving legal issues, similar to those found in space law. Both fields deal with governance gaps in rapidly advancing technologies and intersect with defence, security and international regulatory concerns.

At the Congress, Francesca attended sessions aligned with her interests, networked with professionals and observed the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition, which is traditionally judged by members of the International Court of Justice — a particular highlight for her as a law graduate.

Francesca says this experience has influenced her career direction. “Attending the IAC immersed me in an international, interdisciplinary environment – exactly the kind of space I hope to work in long-term. It gave me exposure to ideas, people and opportunities that aren’t yet available in New Zealand.”

Francesca says space law and security are important emerging fields for New Zealand to engage with.

“While New Zealand hosts major commercial operators such as Rocket Lab and Dawn Aerospace, our legal and policy framework is still relatively limited beyond the New Zealand Space Agency. There’s an opportunity to expand education in this area and give students the skills to contribute to the country’s growing space sector.”

She believes there’s significant potential for New Zealand researchers and policymakers to play a greater role in space governance as the commercial sector expands.

“I haven’t met any other students or graduates from New Zealand interested in this field. There’s a strong focus on the technical side of space, but governance opportunities will follow as the industry grows.”

With an undergraduate degree in law and her Master’s in Defence and Security Studies, Francesca plans to work at the intersection of law, science and technology — particularly in dual-use regulation and space law.

“This opportunity has been pivotal. It’s given me direct insight into how global collaboration and policy dialogue occur and shown me where I want to be part of that conversation.”

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