Spaceport operator and launch technology infrastructure company, Equatorial Launch Australia (ELA), has today announced its new General Manager, Regulatory & Corporate Affairs as Francois Lambert.

The role will work closely with ELA’s CEO to lead and develop the implementation of ELA’s Launch Facility Licence and Launch Permit Application frameworks, aiming to help clients navigate the intricacies of space launch operations, and delivering on the company promise; "You build the rockets… we'll take care of the rest.”™

Alongside the company’s senior executives, the role will align legal and regulatory strategies and have oversight of ELA's overall compliance of operations at the Arnhem Space Centre (ASC), helping ELA to meet its ambitious growth and operational targets.

With the 2025 scheduled launches with South Korean rocket company, Innospace, and the recent announcement of French launch vehicle provider, Sirius Space Services, as the second ‘Resident Launcher’ at the ASC, ELA is fast achieving its goal of being the preeminent multi-user commercial launch facility globally.

“Our team has a high focus on delivering expert solutions in all aspects, from launching, and managing ground operations through to ensuring we meet regulatory compliance. This all supports our goal of optimising for our customers’ success. We are working towards a higher launch cadence in the coming years and Francois’s role will be critical to ensure ELA operates within the legal and regulatory frameworks necessary for successful high frequency space launches,” said ELA’s CEO, Michael Jones.

The ASC’s strategic geographical location, high-tech launch facilities and ability to offer multiple orbit options including equatorial, are all key factors in the growing interest from global launch vehicle companies.

With ELA’s vision and determination to provide high quality launch support services and facilities to its Resident Launchers, ensuring the continued compliance with regulatory requirements at the ASC is paramount. Lambert’s appointment helps to ensure the essential licenses, compliance, and facilitations of large-scale space operations proceed smoothly, as negotiations for the remaining Space Launch Complexes are finalised.

ELA’s vision of becoming the leading commercial space launch provider resonated with Lambert, saying “the opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking company in the space industry, especially within Australia, was a compelling factor for me. The challenge of navigating complex regulatory landscapes and ensuring compliance for cutting-edge space operations aligns perfectly with my expertise and aspirations.”

“I am thrilled to join ELA at such an exciting time. The opportunity to contribute to a project of national and global significance in the rapidly evolving space industry is both a challenge and an honour. I look forward to working with the team to ensure that ELA’s operations are not only successful but also fully compliant with all regulatory requirements."

Lambert is a welcomed asset to ELA. As the founder of Australian space consultancy firm Orbital Reach, Lambert brings an extensive background in space law and regulatory affairs, having worked on global space initiatives such as GALILEO and Amazon's Project Kuiper.

“Francois’ experience and passion for space law makes him a significant addition to our team and I’m really looking forward to working with him in continuing our growth,” says Jones regarding Lambert’s onboarding. “He’s joining us at a really exciting time for the company with our recent contract announcement with Sirius, and his expertise is going to be a great help to ensure we provide the best service possible to all current and future clients.”

Lambert joins the executive team in the Adelaide CBD Head Office, comprised of CEO Michael jones; General Manager, Operations and Launch, Ben Tett; CFO Alex Somers; and newly appointed General Manager, Arnhem Space Centre, Brian Duane.