Australian Space Summit 2026, in-space logistics and orbital policy, with Bradley Hatton-Jones

How can Australia build a stronger role in the global space economy and position itself for the next phase of commercial space activity? In this episode of the Space Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Bradley Hatton-Jones, founder and chief executive of Gold Coast-based space logistics company Orbit2Orbit. Hatton-Jones is a South African-born aerospace entrepreneur leading Orbit2Orbit in developing in-space logistics capability designed to move cargo and support operations between orbital destinations. He is also attending the upcoming Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026 held on 17 and 18 June at the Hyatt Regency Sydney. The podcast conversation includes the following topics: Australia's space policy settings and the need for clearer national direction and reduced regulatory complexity. How Australia can leverage its geography, launch capability and industrial strengths to build a competitive space sector. The vision for Australia as a full-cycle space nation spanning launch, in-space operations, recovery and reuse. Recent developments across domestic industry and the challenges of funding, coordination and government support. The rise of in-space logistics, reusable spacecraft and sustainable orbital infrastructure. The role of collaboration, competition and commercial partnerships across the space ecosystem. How AI and autonomous systems are changing engineering, operations and growth across the industry. The long-term challenge of orbital congestion, space sustainability and governance for routine space operations. Finally, the discussion wraps up by exploring Australia's priorities to 2030 and how policymakers can enable a more practical and commercially accessible space sector. Enjoy the podcast, The Space Connect team