AW is a quite unique creation. Quite similarly to BSG.
The controversial part about Theta is the battle ban (if I may call it that way).
As BSG is "closely affiliated" with IMG, it has the right to engage outcast units in the Taus.
Now, AW imo, could enforce this battle ban. On the same basis as the real zoners somehow keep Theta from becoming the main Outcast-Corsair battleground. (Although they seem a bit like leaning towards the corsairs according to rumors/infocards/news)
For the time being at least. Since they've got Omicron 74, (great job with it, Dab), the "what may AW do" problem will probably cease to exist. AW will get a nice, cosy home and Theta will (probably) serve as their direct area of inflence. Just like BS| owns Omicron 100, while having large influence in Omicron minor.
Imo, there should be some clear rules, defining, what faction may do what in which system and when aligned to what NPCs.