Kim Ellis Hayes, Attorney, Scientist, Astronaut Candidate

Ever wondered about what a Space Lawyer actually does? Did you know that this specialist category of lawyers existed worldwide? In this fascinating talk, Kim will take you on a journey around the world from the United Nations, to the launchpad, to the in's and out's of sending human teeth, mushrooms, seeds and yoghurt into orbit on the International Space Station and beyond. Answering the question; why do we need lawyers in space and why a rocket scientist just won't do!
Drawing on her book The Launchpad Effect, Kim inspires audiences to transform career challenges into opportunities, sharing the mindset and tools that propelled her from redundancy to pioneering Australia’s first multidisciplinary space education program, perfect for professionals facing uncertainty.
Kim Ellis Hayes — attorney, scientist, and astronaut candidate — takes audiences on a journey through the rapidly evolving world of space law, business, and human exploration. Blending stories from her work with global brands, governments, and astronaut training, Kim reveals how the rules written on Earth shape our shared future beyond it. From brand feasibility in microgravity to the rise of suborbital astronauts, she challenges us to see that space isn’t a distant frontier — it’s the next domain for creativity, cooperation, and inclusion. Ultimately, Kim shows how thoughtful law, innovation, and human courage can make space belong to everyone. 🌍🚀
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