"In order to secure those slots the notifying authority, which in Australia is the Australian Communications and Media Authority [ACMA], needs to (a) initialise the registration procedure with the ITU, and (b) resolve any major compatibility issues with operators of neighbouring satellites.

"So long as there are no regional objections and the ITU registration process is underway, an operator can proceed with its launch plans."

According to NBN Co, the ITU international frequency coordination process has been underway since August 2010, with Quigley noting the formalities are expected to be completed before the satellites are in orbit in 2015.

The satellites are designed to deliver broadband to the three per cent of premises outside of the NBN's reach, including outback areas and external territories such as Norfolk and Christmas Island.

The company entered into a (SS/L) in February for the satellite build.