Global navigation satellite systems
The Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) is the lead agency for Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) in Queensland.
DERM and GNSS
GNSS is an umbrella term that incorporates all satellite positioning systems including the existing United States GPS, and Russian GLONASS systems, and a number that are under development. GNSS is a significant enabling technology for the Department and is used for a range of field activities, including, but not limited to:
- surveying and mapping
- monitoring compliance activities such as illegal tree clearing
- locating problems such as pest infestations.
GNSS combines satellite and ground infrastructure and user equipment to determine geographic positions on earth. It is used in many diverse applications to determine positions all over Queensland.
The use of GNSS by DERM and its forerunners began in 1985 when the first Global Positioning System (GPS) survey was undertaken in Queensland.
See the GNSS systems development page for more information.
DERM's GNSS objectives
The Department's Geodesy and Positioning unit is responsible for coordinating the Department's lead agency role in GNSS. Its objectives are:
- To ensure the Department (in terms of infrastructure and applications) benefits optimally from new geospatial technologies, such as the next generation GNSS, and that the Department's management is advised on the strategies, standards and policies required to achieve this objective.
- To develop and secure the Department's whole-of-government responsibilities as Queensland's lead agency in positioning activities.
- To liaise across the geospatial industry, including key government, private and research organisations that are involved in the development of positioning technologies and infrastructure.
- To develop communications and awareness mechanisms for new positioning technologies for the Queensland Government and industry, and ensure that training programs covering new positioning technologies are available to the Department, the Queensland Government and industry.
In accordance with our Geospatial Reference Frame Policy, the Department operates a number of permanent GNSS reference stations as part of the national AuScope project and for the SunPOZ service in south-east Queensland.
Further information on DERM's role in GNSS
For more information about DERM's role in GNSS visit the links below:
For DERM's role in surveying in Queensland see Surveying in DERM.
Last reviewed 15 March 2012
Last updated 20 July 2011