The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the International Labour Organization Convention No. 138: Convention concerning Minimum Age for Admission to Employment (the Convention).

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 7 March 2023

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the International Labour Organization Convention No. 138: Convention concerning Minimum Age for Admission to Employment (the Convention). Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “the purpose of the Convention is to effectively abolish child labour by ensuring that the right of children to attend school will be protected; that types of economic activity that may be undertaken by children will be regulated; and that children’s health, safety and morals will be protected”. The Convention contains three key obligations: a requirement to specify the age of completion of compulsory schooling as the minimum age for admission to employment or work (in any case not less than 15 years); a requirement to establish 18 years as the minimum age for hazardous work (or 16 years if certain protections are in place); and a requirement to specify the conditions where children no younger than 13 years may undertake light work. The flexible framework provided by the Convention means Members with varied legal systems can ensure their compliance with its obligations. While there is not a single prohibition against child labour in Australia, the Committee agreed that in effect it is prevented through the combination of education, employment, and workplace health and safety legislation. Children across jurisdictions in Australia will continue to be permitted to undertake light work where the available evidence suggests such work is undertaken in beneficial circumstances without impact on their health and wellbeing. “Ratification would add to Australia’s existing strong framework for the education and safe employment of young people”, Mr Wilson said. “One way it would achieve this is through reporting requirements to the International Labour Organization (ILO). One year after the Convention enters into force, Australia would submit a report on its compliance. Every three years, Australia would then report to an ILO committee of experts for an impartial and technical evaluation. In essence, we would be held to the commitments we have signed up to.” “By becoming party to this convention, we would join a large part of the international community. Importantly, it would lend credibility to Australia in promoting strong measures to eliminate child labour in the Asia-Pacific”, Mr Wilson said. The Committee expressed that it looked forward to receiving a copy of Australia’s first report on compliance with the Convention. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing into the International Labour Organization Convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work (No. 190).

Media release issue date: Monday, 27 February 2023

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing today into the International Labour Organization Convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work (No. 190). Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “The Convention is the first international agreement to address the pervasive problem of violence and harassment in the world of work, including gender-based violence and harassment.” The scope of the Convention is broad, extending beyond traditional workers and covering persons regardless of their contractual status, working arrangements, or the type of violence and harassment to which they may be subject. The Convention requires the adoption of an ‘inclusive, integrated and gender-responsive approach’ to preventing and eliminating violence and harassment in the world of work, which binds the individual elements of the Convention together. “The Australian Government advises that Australia’s law, policy, and practice is already consistent with the Convention’s obligations, but in keeping with its accountability function the Committee will examine this and other issues during the public hearing,” Mr Wilson said. Public hearing details Date: Monday, 27 February 2023 Time: 1.45 pm – 4.00 pm AEDT Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House The hearing can be accessed online and the program for this hearing is available on the Committee website, along with further information about the inquiries. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Friday, 10 February 2023, into the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage and the Australia-Iceland Double Taxation Convention.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 9 February 2023

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Friday, 10 February 2023, into the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage and the Australia-Iceland Double Taxation Convention. Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “Australia has a precious trove of underwater cultural heritage, from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander underwater cultural heritage in Australian waters, to the remains of Australian ships lost in wars across the globe.” The Convention would provide a legal basis for Australia to protect underwater cultural heritage in its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, as well as areas outside of Australia’s jurisdiction where it has an interest. The Convention also represents a contemporary international standard for protecting underwater cultural heritage. In addition, the Convention would provide a framework for the Australian Government to negotiate uniform Commonwealth, state and territory rules for protecting underwater cultural heritage. “Having taken a significant role in drafting the Convention, it is welcome that Australia is now moving to ratify it”, Mr Wilson said. “Eminent Australians involved in underwater cultural heritage who have supported and called for this treaty action over several years, have been invited to discuss the Convention with the Committee. Their input will shed further light on contemporary challenges of protecting underwater cultural heritage, what final steps would be required by Australia for ratification, and the benefits it would bring in working with other nations who have a common interest in protecting these historic sites.” Public hearing details Date:   Friday, 10 February 2023 Time:   9.00 am – 10.30 am AEDT - Australia-Iceland Double Taxation Convention          10.40 am – 4.30 pm AEDT - Underwater Cultural Heritage Convention Location: Main Committee Room (1R0), Parliament House   The hearing can be accessed online and the programs for this hearing is available on the Committee website, along with further information about the inquiries. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au  For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Joint Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation (JI-SDR).

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 8 February 2023

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Joint Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation (JI-SDR). Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “the JI-SDR is a plurilateral agreement negotiated between 69 Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) that contains a range of rules that would potentially increase the transparency and predictability of the regulatory environment in Australia’s services export markets”. The JI-SDR establishes best practice requirements for the authorisation processes that enable service exports. Provisions in the JI-SDR relate to a range of areas including transparency in fees and procedures, efficient processing of applications, evaluation based on clear and objective criteria, reasonable access to examinations where required, and the acceptance of electronic documents. The JI-SDR would provide simple, transparent, fair, and user-friendly global rules to facilitate trade in services. “It is notable”, Mr Wilson said, “that because Australia has been convinced of this logic for some time, our regulatory practice already complies with these new rules, but of course Australian companies stand to benefit by their wider adoption”. The Committee agreed that notwithstanding some concern about the way such plurilateral agreements sit alongside the WTO, the JI-SDR was likely to reinforce the centrality of the World Trade Organization and create momentum in multilateral rule-making. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be holding a hearing into the International Labour Organization Convention concerning Minimum Age for Admission to Employment (the Convention).

Media release issue date: Monday, 6 February 2023

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be holding a hearing into the International Labour Organization Convention concerning Minimum Age for Admission to Employment (the Convention). Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “the Convention aims to abolish child labour by protecting the right of children to attend school, and by ensuring the types of economic activity that may be undertaken by children is properly regulated”. “The Convention contains a number of obligations including a requirement to specify the age of completion of compulsory schooling as the minimum age for employment or work, and other requirements with regard to the classification of hazardous work and light work”, Mr Wilson said. The Committee will be hearing from witnesses from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Public hearing details Date:        Monday, 6 February 2023 Time:       11.20 am – 1.00 pm AEDT (approximately) Location:  Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House The hearing can be accessed online and the program can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America on Access to Electronic Data for the Purpose of Countering Serious Crime (CLOUD Act Agreement).

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 13 December 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America on Access to Electronic Data for the Purpose of Countering Serious Crime (CLOUD Act Agreement). Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “if certain conditions are met, the CLOUD Act Agreement would allow Australian authorities to seek an Order under Australian law to obtain data related to a serious offence from communications service providers that operate under the jurisdiction of the United States, and vice versa.” “The CLOUD Act Agreement would provide an agreed administrative mechanism so that providers in the receiving country can comply with Orders without the necessity of law enforcement or intelligence agencies relying on mutual legal assistance arrangements, while still requiring certain steps to be followed for the CLOUD Act Agreement to be properly invoked”, Mr Wilson said. The Committee agreed that current processes for obtaining data from United States (US) communications service providers under the mutual legal assistance treaty (MLAT) process can be cumbersome and not necessarily suited to modern communications, data storage, and cloud computing. The CLOUD Act Agreement would complement but significantly improve on the current MLAT process for the acquisition of data held by US communications service providers. The Committee did, however, examine a range of issues with the CLOUD Act Agreement, including implications for civil liberties, reporting on and oversight of Orders, and consultation during negotiations. The Committee encouraged the Australian Government to be mindful that consultation, reporting, and oversight are critical integrity elements that should be applied appropriately where surveillance or other incursions into privacy are involved. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled a report into two major treaties: the Agreement between Australia and Japan concerning the Facilitation of Reciprocal Access and Cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan (Australia-Japan RAA), and the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education (Global Convention). The Committee has recommended the Australian Government ratifies both treaties.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 1 December 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled a report into two major treaties: the Agreement between Australia and Japan concerning the Facilitation of Reciprocal Access and Cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan (Australia-Japan RAA), and the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education (Global Convention). The Committee has recommended the Australian Government ratifies both treaties. Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “the Australia-Japan RAA builds on the long-standing defence relationship between Australia and Japan, and would both simplify and strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries in the context of a deteriorating strategic environment”. “The Australia-Japan RAA deals comprehensively with the entry and departure of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component, their movement and operation within the territory of each Party, command and control, and matters of criminal jurisdiction and claims”. The issue of the death penalty that applies in Japan for certain offences was examined by the Committee. It found that while blanket immunity for Australian personnel serving in Japan was not achieved, considerable steps had been taken to protect personnel from the risk of being subject to the death penalty, while also maintaining Australia’s international obligations. The Committee recognised the importance of Australia’s principled position opposing the death penalty, as set out in Australia’s whole-of-government strategy for the abolition of the death penalty. Regarding the Global Convention, Mr Wilson said, “the Global Convention establishes universal principles and processes for the recognition of studies and qualifications, and the right of individuals to have their foreign qualifications assessed in a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory manner”. “The Global Convention would provide a framework for the recognition of Australian qualifications internationally, and the recognition of overseas qualifications in Australia, and in so doing would potentially have significant benefits for Australia’s education sector”. The Committee agreed that in a highly competitive international marketplace, the Global Convention would add value to Australian qualifications and help to attract skilled professionals. Importantly, Australian decision makers would retain full autonomy with regard to which overseas qualifications would be recognised and how that would occur. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). This comes shortly after the Committee recommended ratification of the free trade agreement with the United Kingdom.

Media release issue date: Friday, 18 November 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). This comes shortly after the Committee recommended ratification of the free trade agreement with the United Kingdom. Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “this ‘early harvest’ agreement with India paves the way for further trade, market access, investment and regulation that requires global cooperation. The AI-ECTA also ensures that Australia will not be excluded from improved trade and market access which may arise from agreements India subsequently negotiates with other nations. “As an interim agreement however, the AI-ECTA is not as comprehensive in its scope and coverage as other trade agreements and under-achieves in areas of potential and immediate interest to Australia such as, wine. “As Australia moves towards a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, the Committee has noted the importance of improved tariff reductions, greater access to services, and on broader matters like intellectual property, cultural heritage, the environment, and labour rights.” The Committee also took the opportunity in this report to express concerns regarding the extent and quality of consultation, transparency of negotiations, and lack of independent modelling and analysis of trade agreements. In doing so, the Committee again recommended the Australian Government implements the recommendations made in Report 193: Strengthening the Trade Agreement and Treaty-Making Process in Australia. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (AUKFTA).

Media release issue date: Thursday, 17 November 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (AUKFTA). Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP said, “the AUKFTA reflects the longstanding importance, quality, and depth of the political, cultural, and economic relationship between Australia and the United Kingdom while looking to set a framework for future trade and cooperation”. “The AUKFTA would contribute to diversifying Australia’s trade and addresses both traditional free trade agreement concerns while incorporating a range of wider social and economic principles. At the same time, the AUKFTA preserves policy and regulatory space for Parties in rapidly evolving sectors such as digital trade and financial services”, Mr Wilson said. The Committee agreed the liberalisation outcomes appear balanced and while noting there remain some barriers to trade in goods, it was recognised that on entry into force 99 per cent of Australian goods exports by value would enter into the United Kingdom without tariffs. They also saw the liberalisation of the rules for services and investment as having the potential to open new markets for Australian service suppliers. The Committee did however, express ongoing concern regarding the lack of independent economic impact analysis, and the substance and quality of consultation. As such, the Committee also recommended the Australian Government implement the recommendations of its previously made Report 193: Strengthening the Trade Agreement and Treaty-Making Process in Australia. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Thursday 13 October 2022 into the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA).

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 12 October 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Thursday 13 October 2022 into the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). The AI-ECTA is an interim agreement that deals with a smaller range of matters than typically found in a comprehensive agreement. It contains 14 chapters and a range of side letters, and is intended to establish a framework for future economic, trade and investment interactions between Australia and India. “India is a complex market for Australian exporters,” Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP, said. “India looks for balance between openness to foreign trade and concern for the livelihoods of Indian small businesses. The Committee is keen to explore how Australia fared in striking this balance in the AI-ECTA.” “The Committee looks forward to hearing from a range of representatives who can speak to the substance of the AI-ECTA and the ways in which it might benefit and otherwise impact Australian businesses and consumers.” Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 13 October 2022 Time: 9.00 am – 12.30 pm AEDT The program for this hearing is also available online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Wednesday 12 October 2022 into two treaties.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 11 October 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Wednesday 12 October 2022 into two treaties. The Agreement between Australia and Japan concerning the Facilitation of Reciprocal Access and Cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Self‑Defense Forces of Japan would provide a legal framework to facilitate defence cooperation between Australia and Japan and define the status of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component of a Party while in the territory of the other Party. The Committee will be hearing from witnesses who have made submissions addressing a range of matters including the criminal justice elements of the treaty, particularly the Annex and Record of Discussion that deal with the death penalty. The Committee will also hear from submitters to the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America on Access to Electronic Data for the Purpose of Countering Serious Crime (Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement). The Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement would allow Australian authorities to seek an Order under Australian law to obtain the electronic data of a Covered Person where it relates to a serious offence, directly from communication service providers that operate under the jurisdiction of the US, and vice versa. Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP, said “The Committee looks forward to hearing from a range of representative as it progresses its inquiries into these two important treaties.” Public hearing details Date: Wednesday, 12 October 2022 Time: 9.10 am – 3.10 pm AEDT The program for this hearing is also available online: Australia-Japan RAA and Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement. Further information on the inquiries can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Tuesday 20 September 2022 into the Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement).

Media release issue date: Monday, 19 September 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Tuesday 20 September 2022 into the Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement). The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement is a comprehensive agreement comprising 32 chapters dealing with matters ranging from trade in goods and services to environmental issues, state-owned enterprises and innovation. “Australia is the first country to negotiate a new trade agreement with the UK since it left the EU. The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement has the potential to give Australian businesses a head start in accessing the UK market – one of the largest in the world,” Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP, said. “The Committee looks forward to hearing from a range of representatives who can speak to the complexity of the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement, detail the ways in which it might benefit and otherwise impact Australian businesses and consumers, while canvassing a spectrum of trade and investment issues and concerns”. Public hearing details Date: Tuesday, 20 September 2022 Time: 9.00 am – 5.15 pm AEST The program for this hearing is also available online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Ms Katharine Longley, Media Adviser 08 9335 8555 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Wednesday 14 September 2022 into the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America on Access to Electronic Data for the Purpose of Countering Serious Crime (Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement).

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 13 September 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Wednesday 14 September 2022 into the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United States of America on Access to Electronic Data for the Purpose of Countering Serious Crime (Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement). The Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement would allow Australian authorities to seek an Order under Australian law to obtain the electronic data of a Covered Person where it relates to a serious offence, directly from communication service providers that operate under the jurisdiction of the US, and vice versa. Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP, said ‘The Committee looks forward to hearing from representatives from the Attorney-General’s Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as it progresses its inquiry into the Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement.’ ‘The Australia-US Cloud Act Agreement would enliven the International Production Order regime of the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979 (TIA Act) and the Committee will be interested in exploring the interface between the agreement and the TIA Act.’ Public hearing details Date: Wednesday 14 September 2022 Time: 11.55am (approx) – 1.45 pm AEST The program for this hearing is also available online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Ms Katharine Longley, Media Adviser 08 9335 8555 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Monday 5 September 2022 into the Agreement between Australia and Japan concerning the Facilitation of Reciprocal Access and Cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan (Australia-Japan RAA).

Media release issue date: Monday, 5 September 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing on Monday 5 September 2022 into the Agreement between Australia and Japan concerning the Facilitation of Reciprocal Access and Cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan (Australia-Japan RAA). The Australia-Japan RAA would provide a legal framework to facilitate defence cooperation between Australia and Japan and define the status of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component of a Party while in the territory of the other Party. Committee Chair, Mr Josh Wilson MP, said ‘The Committee looks forward to hearing from representatives from the Department of Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as it progresses its inquiry into the agreement.’ ‘While the Australia-Japan RAA reflects measures commonly found in status of forces agreements, there are some unique provisions and the Committee will be interested in exploring their implications.’ Public hearing details Date: Monday 5 September 2022 Time: 11.10 am (approx) – 1.00 pm AEST The program for this hearing is also available online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Ms Katharine Longley, Media Adviser 08 9335 8555 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Government ratifies the International Labour Organization Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 31 March 2022

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Government ratifies the International Labour Organization Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said “the Protocol aims to address gaps in the existing forced labour conventions [1] to combat the evolving nature of forced labour.” “The Committee is of the view forced labour should, without exception, be outlawed and notes Australia is already in compliance with the obligations established by the Protocol. Australia’s commitment to eliminating forced labour is clear and unequivocal.” The Committee agreed ratification of the Protocol would enhance Australia’s standing in the international community and ability to address the practices authoritatively, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The Committee acknowledges that notwithstanding the progress being made to address forced labour, there is further work to be done, and is encouraged to see the detail of future action in the Australian Government’s National Action Plan to Combat Modern Slavery 2020–25. In addition, the Committee is of the view that if a significant proportion of entities reporting under the Modern Slavery Act continue to miss mandatory reporting requirements, the Australian Government should consider steps beyond the current approach of educating and encouraging relevant entities. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page. [1] Forced Labour Convention, 1930; Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Government move to ratify the Agreement with the United States and United Kingdom for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (ENNPI).

Media release issue date: Friday, 17 December 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended the Government move to ratify the Agreement with the United States and United Kingdom for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (ENNPI). Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said ‘This Agreement will help determine the optimal pathway for acquiring nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy, one of the most important strategic military capabilities for Australia in the decades ahead.’ “The Agreement will allow for the exchange of sensitive and classified naval nuclear propulsion information with a third country for the first time, and provide a mechanism for Australian personnel to access training and education from UK and US counterparts, essential for learning how to safely build, operate and support nuclear-powered submarines.” “With our security environment growing more challenging in the decades ahead, a regionally superior submarine capability is critical to safeguard Australia’s security,’ said Dave Sharma MP. “This Agreement will help facilitate this capability,” he added. ‘The proposed Agreement will not affect Australia’s strong commitment to nuclear non-proliferation,’ Mr Sharma said. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold an inquiry into the Agreement between the governments of Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (ENNPI).

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 23 November 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold an inquiry into the Agreement between the governments of Australia, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US) for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (ENNPI). Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said, 'This Agreement will allow Australia to access critical naval nuclear propulsion information from the United States and United Kingdom, and allow the exchange of sensitive and classified naval nuclear propulsion information with a third country for the first time.' 'It will help determine the optimal pathway for acquiring nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy, one of the most important strategic military capabilities for Australia in the decades ahead.' The ENNPI Agreement will also provide a mechanism for Australian personnel to access training and education from the UK and US counterparts, necessary for learning how to safely build, operate and support nuclear-powered submarines. The Committee is now accepting submissions and will hold a public hearing on Monday 29 November 2021. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Submissions Submissions to the inquiry are now open and close on Friday 26 November 2021. Public hearing The Committee will hold a public hearing on Monday 29 November 2021 at 11.15am AEDT. The program for the hearing will be made available online and the hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live. Media inquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will review a proposed Agreement with the European Union (EU) on tariff rate quotas for Australian exports.

Media release issue date: Monday, 1 November 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will review a proposed Agreement with the European Union (EU) on tariff rate quotas for Australian exports. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said ‘the proposed Agreement is an important step in settling exporting arrangements post Brexit and before the completion of Australia-EU free trade agreement negotiations.’ Tariff rate quotas set out the quantity of goods Australia can export to the EU under preferential tariff arrangements before higher tariffs are applied to those exports. The proposed Agreement covers red meat, sugar, cheese, and rice exports. ‘Before Brexit, Australia’s tariff rate quotas to the EU included the United Kingdom. Brexit meant that Australia had to negotiate a split of those quotas between the United Kingdom and the EU. Whilst the quantity of Australia’s tariff rate quotas has not significantly changed, the agreement draws a line under the Brexit process for Australia and provides a basis from which to negotiate the Australia-EU free trade agreement,’ Mr Sharma said. Public hearing details Date:        Monday 1 November 2021 Time:        11.00 am – 1.00 pm AEDT COVID-19 restrictions mean the hearing can be accessed online only. The program for this hearing is also available online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has today tabled a report strongly recommending the Government ratify the Minamata Convention on Mercury.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 1 September 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has today tabled a report strongly recommending the Government ratify the Minamata Convention on Mercury. Recognising the global public health dangers posed by mercury, and the fact that it is a toxic pollutant with the capacity for long-range atmospheric transport, the Convention implements a global framework for controlling mercury. The Convention contains measures to limit emissions and reduce the use of mercury, control the supply and trade of mercury, and ensure mercury waste is disposed of and managed safely. The Convention entered into force in 2017 and has been ratified by 132 countries to date. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said ‘The Minamata Convention is a global response to a chemical of global concern. Mercury is a toxic element that cannot be destroyed. There is no safe level of exposure to mercury.’ The Committee recommended the Government reassess the need to seek an exemption to allow for the continued importation of High Pressure Mercury Vapour (HPMV) lamps into Australia. ‘Industry is already transitioning away rapidly from HPMV lamps, and to seek such an exemption would place Australia in poor international company,’ said Mr Sharma. The Committee also recommended ratification of the OCCAR Managed Programmes Participation Agreement. OCCAR facilitates cooperation in defence materiel acquisition by coordinating, controlling and implementing armament programs assigned to it by its member states, including the United Kingdom, France and Germany. Ratification would benefit Australia through access to a global procurement network, economies of scale, shared expertise and risk reduction. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media enquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended that the Government ratify the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 1 September 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has recommended that the Government ratify the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement. ‘RCEP is a significant achievement. Accounting for almost one-third of the world’s population and GDP, it is anticipated RCEP’s broad membership and simplified trading standards will facilitate growing supply-chain integration and closer regional economic integration’, Mr Sharma said. ‘As a regional free trade agreement lead and centred around the Association of South East Asian Nations, RCEP also helps anchor and reinforce ASEAN’s leadership role in the development of regional norms and standards.’ ‘RCEP will make it easier for Australian exporters to the region, providing a single set of rules and procedures to navigate.’ In its report the Committee also emphasised its concern about the military coup and human rights deterioration in Myanmar. The Committee stressed the importance of continuing to pursue the restoration of civilian, democratic rule in Myanmar as a priority. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Other RCEP signatories include the ten nations of ASEAN, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand. Media enquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.   

Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses a global threat to human health and the environment. The Minamata Convention creates a common platform for global action to reduce mercury’s use and impact, committing Parties to address the full lifecycle of mercury, including its safe disposal.

Media release issue date: Monday, 9 August 2021

Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses a global threat to human health and the environment. The Minamata Convention creates a common platform for global action to reduce mercury’s use and impact, committing Parties to address the full lifecycle of mercury, including its safe disposal.   In the 1950s an industrial company in the Japanese seaside city of Minamata was found to have released untreated mercury waste into the adjoining saltwater bay for decades. The mercury contaminated the fish and shellfish stocks, and caused the death and poisoning of thousands of local residents. This environmental and public health catastrophe led to improved Japanese regulations and, importantly,  the establishment of the Minamata Convention.     Australia’s Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be hearing expert evidence and reviewing Australia’s potential ratification of the Minamata Convention at a public hearing on 9 August. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said “Ratifying the Minamata Convention would address an important global public health risk, align Australia with our major trading partners, and provide regulatory certainty for Australian businesses”. At its 9 August hearing the Committee will also examine the Framework Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation, known as OCCAR. OCCAR is a European organisation that facilitates international cooperation in the development and procurement of defence equipment. The proposed Agreement would allow Australia to participate in OCCAR managed programmes. Public hearing details Date: Monday 9 August 2021 Time: 11.00 am – 12.30 pm AEST COVID-19 restrictions mean the hearing can be accessed online only. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the Committee website. Media inquiries Ms Jodie Mathews, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be on a virtual road trip this week as part of the Committee’s inquiry into the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP).

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 27 July 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be on a virtual road trip this week as part of the Committee’s inquiry into the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP). RCEP is a regional free trade agreement between Australia and the countries of ASEAN, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said ‘The Committee will be holding three virtual public hearings this week, including witnesses from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Canberra. Unfortunately, COVID-19 restrictions have meant the Committee is unable to hold these hearings in-person as planned.’ The Committee will discuss a broad range of issues associated with RCEP, including trade in goods, intellectual property, services, health, and human rights. Public hearing details Tuesday 27 July 2021 Time: 9.30 am – 11.30 am AEST The program for this hearing is available online. The hearing can be accessed online. Wednesday 28 July 2021 Time: 10.00 am – 12 noon AEST The program for this hearing is available online. The hearing can be accessed online. Friday 30 July 2021 Time: 10.30 am – 12.30 pm AEST The program for this hearing is available online. The hearing can be accessed online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the inquiry website. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.  

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will today hear from the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (the Chamber) as part of the Committee’s inquiry into the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP).

Media release issue date: Monday, 21 June 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will today hear from the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (the Chamber) as part of the Committee’s inquiry into the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP). RCEP is a regional free trade agreement between Australia and the countries of ASEAN, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said ‘This hearing gives the Committee an opportunity to explore the impact of RCEP on Australian business. The Chamber has told the Committee that it believes that the value of RCEP for Australia is in strategically redirecting trade and economic ties towards regional relationships within the Asia-Pacific.’ The Committee will also discuss the Chamber’s concerns about the overlap between trade agreements, rule of origin arrangements, and the lack of independent economic analysis of RCEP’s impacts. The Committee anticipates conducting further hearings on RCEP in other parts of the country. Public hearing programs will be made available of the Committee’s website. Public hearing details Date: Monday 21 June 2021 Time: 11.10 am – 11.55 am AEST Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House Please note that access to the public hearing is restricted as a pandemic control measure. The hearing can be accessed online. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the inquiry website. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties today tabled Report 195, concerning three treaty actions: a film co-production agreement with Malaysia, revisions to the Radio Regulations which regulate radio spectrum and satellite orbits, and a new tax information exchange agreement with Timor-Leste.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 12 May 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled Report 195, concerning three treaty actions: a film co-production agreement with Malaysia, revisions to the Radio Regulations which regulate radio spectrum and satellite orbits, and a new tax information exchange agreement with Timor-Leste. “The Malaysian Government is a strong supporter of the Malaysian film industry and Malaysian films attract a large audience in South East Asia,” said Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP. Australia’s film co-production agreement with Malaysia would make it easier for Australian film makers to develop co-productions with Malaysian film makers and encourage closer cultural ties between Australia and Malaysia. The revisions to the Radio Regulations make a number of improvements to the management of the radio spectrum and satellite orbits, which are used to support everything from mobile phones to satellite communications.  The improvements include providing greater bandwidth to support 5G mobile broadband services, enhanced connectivity on aeroplanes and ships, and expanded Global Maritime Distress and Safety System satellite services. The new tax information exchange agreement with Timor-Leste allows the two countries to exchange information for the purpose of administering taxes associated with the Timor Sea Maritime Boundaries Treaty. “Treaties don’t have to be spectacular to be important,” Mr Sharma said, “these treaties improve our international relationships, make our lives safer and more productive, and bring us closer together.” Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

On Monday, 10 May 2021, the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold its first public hearing on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Media release issue date: Monday, 10 May 2021

On Monday, 10 May 2021, the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold its first public hearing on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP). The RCEP is a regional free trade agreement involving Australia and the ten countries of ASEAN plus China, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP said 'RCEP is a globally-significant trade agreement, covering almost one-third of the world’s population and GDP. It is comprehensive, covering trade in goods and services, investment, economic and technical cooperation, electronic commerce, and reflecting contemporary standards in the areas intellectual property, competition and government procurement.' 'At a time when free, open and non-discriminatory trade is under increasing pressure, agreements such as RCEP can help shore up the existing order, which has done so much to underpin rising global prosperity.' Although Australia has existing trade agreements with many of the parties to RCEP, the Agreement is expected to enhance these benefits and update standards in some areas and open new opportunities for Australian businesses. Australian Government witnesses will speak at the public hearing in Parliament House. Further information on the inquiry can be found on the inquiry website. Public hearing details: Date: Monday, 10 May 2021 Time: 10:15 am–1:00 pm Location: Committee Room 1R6, Parliament House Please note that access to the public hearing is restricted as a pandemic control measure. The hearing can be can be accessed online. Media enquiries: Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information: Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.   

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties today tabled Report 194, which considers amendments to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 17 March 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties yesterday tabled Report 194, which considers amendments to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES protects endangered species by regulating international trade in those species and the products derived from them. Amendments to the list of protected species covered by CITES are regularly proposed and adopted. The amendments considered in the report include ten Australian native species and four non-native species Australia trades in. 'The Committee supports the amendments,’ said Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP, ‘but the time frame in which amendments come into force means there is usually insufficient or no time for the Committee to undertake an inquiry.’ Report 194 recommends that the Government change its process for referring CITES amendments to the Committee to ensure the Committee can complete an inquiry before the amendments come into force. Report 194 also includes the Committee’s views on an Agreement to amend the Agreement between Australia and Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway on Mutual Recognition in relation to Conformity Assessment, Certificates and Markings. Mutual recognition agreements of this type allow importers to rely on assessments of products made by appropriate bodies in the country of origin for import purposes. The Agreement will align the mutual recognition arrangements with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway with Australia’s existing Agreement with the EU. The Committee has recommended the ratification of the Agreement amending the Mutual Recognition Agreement with Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Media enquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.  

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing in Canberra on Monday 1 February 2021 to discuss amendments to the Convention on the Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Media release issue date: Friday, 29 January 2021

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing in Canberra on Monday 1 February 2021 to discuss amendments to the Convention on the Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). The Committee will hear evidence on changes to the lists of protected species arising from the CITES 18th Conference of the Parties. CITES protects endangered species by regulating international trade in those species and their products. “Two small, but lucrative industries – musical instrument manufacturing and sea cucumber fishing, are likely to be the most affected in Australia,” said Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP. “Musical instrument makers will benefit from an easing of restrictions on the use of Rosewoods, while people wishing to export sea cucumbers will need to obtain a permit to export this endangered species.” The Committee will also review recent amendments to the Agreement on Mutual Recognition in relation to Conformity Assessment, Certificates and Markings between Australia and the Republic of Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway [European Free Trade Association – European Economic Area]. Public hearing details Date:        Monday 1 February 2021 Time:       11.00am – 12.00 noon Location:  Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House Please note that access to the public hearing is restricted as a pandemic control measure. The hearing can be accessed online. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.  

A federal parliamentary committee has recommended Australia commit to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) reform proposals to better combat the global economic impact of COVID-19.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 7 October 2020

A federal parliamentary committee has recommended Australia commit to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) reform proposals to better combat the global economic impact of COVID-19. Report 191, released today by the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties, supports three treaties that will give the IMF access to the funds it needs to support countries dealing with the severe economic downturn that has accompanied the pandemic. Two of the treaties involve the direct transfer of a portion of Australia’s commitments from the third line of defence supporting IMF lending, called ‘bilateral loan agreements’, to the IMF’s second line of defence, called the ‘New Arrangements to Borrow’. The third treaty is a commitment by Australia to the IMF’s Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust. The Trust is already involved in supporting the COVID-19 response in lower income countries by providing the funds to purchase necessary medical equipment. The treaties do not involve additional financial commitments by Australia. “COVID-19 has had a massive global economic impact, and this is being felt in Australia. For Australia’s sake, we need to be doing all we can to support global economic recovery, and these reforms to the IMF will help do that,” said Committee Chair Dave Sharma MP. In addition, the Report details the Committee’s support for a minor amendment to the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

A federal parliamentary committee today strongly supported the Australian Government’s actions to suspend Australia’s Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance treaties with Hong Kong.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 7 October 2020

A federal parliamentary committee today strongly supported the Australian Government’s actions to suspend Australia’s Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance treaties with Hong Kong. Report 190, released today by the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties follows an inquiry undertaken at the request of the Attorney-General, The Hon Christian Porter MP. “The evidence gathered by the Committee establishes a strong public foundation for the actions for the Australian Government,” said Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP. “The Committee heard the imposition by China of its National Security Law in Hong Kong has fundamentally altered Hong Kong’s status and raised serious concerns about the independence of the judiciary in Hong Kong and the continued application of the rule of law and other fundamental principles of justice. This constitutes a fundamental change of circumstances,” added Mr Sharma. The bi-partisan Committee unanimously endorsed the actions of the Australian Government to protect the integrity of its international law enforcement arrangements and uphold the rights of its citizens by suspending these two treaties. The Committee will continue to take a close interest in political developments in Hong Kong. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold an inquiry into the suspension of the extradition treaty and the mutual legal assistance treaty between Australia and Hong Kong.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 16 September 2020

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold an inquiry into the suspension of the extradition treaty and the mutual legal assistance treaty between Australia and Hong Kong. Australia is proposing to take action to suspend the Agreement for the Surrender of Accused and Convicted Persons between the Government of Australia and the Government of Hong Kong (the extradition treaty), whilst the Agreement between the Government of Hong Kong and the Government of Australia Concerning Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters (the mutual legal assistance treaty) will be suspended by mutual consent. In announcing the inquiry, Chair of the Committee Mr Dave Sharma MP said: “Clearly the political situation in Hong Kong has deteriorated markedly in recent months, with Hong Kong’s autonomous status under threat. The imposition by China of its National Security Law on Hong Kong has altered the legal landscape in Hong Kong and raised serious concerns about the independence of Hong Kong’s judiciary and the rule of law. In such circumstances, it is only prudent to take steps to protect the integrity of our extradition and mutual legal assistance frameworks.” Deputy Chair of the Committee Peter Khalil MP said: “Following passage of the national security laws which eroded Hong Kong’s independent legal status, there were calls for the urgent review of Australia’s extradition treaty with Hong Kong. The Opposition welcomed the Government’s subsequent decision to suspend this treaty on substantive grounds. This inquiry is necessary given the need to ensure the functioning and integrity of Australia’s international law enforcement cooperation and our extradition frameworks.” The Committee has agreed to the Attorney-General’s request to consider these matters as soon as possible, so that they can be reported to Parliament in early October. The Committee is aware that these issues have been of interest to many in the community in recent months, and public comment is encouraged. The Committee is seeking written submissions by no later than Tuesday 22 September. The Committee will also hold a roundtable discussion (by teleconference) on Thursday 24 September. Interested participants should contact the secretariat by Monday 21 September. Further information is available from the Committee website. Media inquiries Mr Dave Sharma MP, Committee Chair Contact Natalie Hissey 02 9327 3988

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will conduct a new inquiry into the treaty-making process, with a particular focus on trade-related treaties.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 17 June 2020

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will conduct a new inquiry into the treaty-making process, with a particular focus on trade-related treaties. “This inquiry will examine the process of consultation undertaken during the negotiation of trade agreements and consider the effectiveness of independent economic analysis in informing these negotiations, with a view to making recommendations to government,” said Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP. “This has been a topic of growing community and stakeholder interest.” “Importantly this inquiry will give key stakeholders and the broader Australian community the opportunity to have their say. We look forward to hearing from as many voices as possible as we consider the trade-agreement making process,” said Committee Deputy Chair Mr Peter Khalil MP. The Committee welcomes the referral from Senator the Hon Marise Payne, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and looks forward to the opportunity to hear from experts and stakeholders. The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will inquire into certain aspects of the treaty making process, including: considering the role of JSCoT in respect of trade-related agreements, including during the negotiation phase; considering the consultation process undertaken by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) before and during the negotiation of trade agreements; considering the effectiveness of independent analysis to inform negotiation or consideration of trade agreements; and reviewing process around the categorisation of treaty actions. Submissions are invited by 31 July, with public hearings to be held during sitting weeks in August. Information on the progress of the inquiry will be available from the Committee’s webpage. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing in Canberra on Monday 15 June 2020 to discuss the termination of the Australia – Indonesia Investment Agreement.

Media release issue date: Friday, 12 June 2020

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing in Canberra on Monday 15 June 2020 to discuss the termination of the Australia – Indonesia Investment Agreement. The Agreement has been superseded by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Australia and Indonesia (IA-CEPA), signed in 2019. “The new trade agreement between Indonesia and Australia contains a contemporary and fit-for-purpose investment chapter, which provides greater protections for investors whilst preserving the freedoms for governments to pursue public policy measures,” said Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP. “I am pleased to see the Government has acted on the recommendation of the Committee in terminating this previous investment agreement.” The new trade agreement contains modern provisions, such as protections for regulating in the public interest. Termination of the previous agreement will also provide investor certainty about which rules apply to their investment. The Committee will also review recent amendments to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species at the 15 June hearing. Public hearing details CANBERRA Date:        Monday 15 June 2020 Time:       11.15am to 1.00pm Location:  Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House Please note that access to the public hearing is restricted as a pandemic control measure.  The hearing can be accessed online. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Treaties Committee will be holding a public hearing on Friday to review two treaty actions relating to capital increases for two World Bank entities, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Finance Corporation.

Media release issue date: Friday, 22 May 2020

The Treaties Committee will be holding a public hearing on Friday to review two treaty actions relating to capital increases for two World Bank entities, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Finance Corporation. These actions will enable Australia to purchase additional capital in both entities, which are in the process of raising capital in part to implement an emergency response package to the global health and economic impacts of COVID-19. The Committee will hear from witnesses from the Department of the Treasury, commencing shortly after 11am. The hearing will be broadcast at aph.gov.au/live. Media inquiries Ms Natalie Hissey, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled a report endorsing three proposed treaty actions.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 3 December 2019

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled a report endorsing three proposed treaty actions. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP says that each of the treaty actions represent important progress for Australia. In particular, the report includes a treaty that provides for the establishment of the governing body of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory. The Square Kilometre Array is a global big-science project to build and operate the world’s largest, most advanced radio observatories. ‘Australia will be one of two countries to host a Square Kilometre Array telescope and our involvement will reinforce Australia’s commitment to international cooperation in scientific and technological fields,’ Mr Sharma said. ‘The Committee was also excited to hear that the project is expected to generate Nobel Prizes, some of which are expected to be received by Australian scientists.’ Also considered in the report is a treaty on the protection of investments agreement with Uruguay, which Mr Sharma says reflects Australia’s commitment to update older style investment treaties. A treaty on the United Nations Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration has also been endorsed by the Committee, with Mr Sharma noting that it enhances transparency for investor-state arbitration proceedings, a longstanding matter of public concern. ‘Once ratified, the UN Convention will enable existing transparency rules to be applied to arbitrations across a wider pool of investment treaties, including the publication of case related information and for tribunal hearings to be made public,’ Mr Sharma said. Further information on the treaties and the final report can be obtained from the Committee’s website. Media inquiries Ms Deyi Wu, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled a report on nine proposed treaty actions.

Media release issue date: Friday, 18 October 2019

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has tabled a report on nine proposed treaty actions. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP says that the treaties cover a wide range of subjects from oil stocks to air services, as well as trade in wine. The report also includes the Committee’s review of the double taxation treaty with Israel, which adds to Australia’s pre existing network of 44 tax treaties. ‘While wide ranging, each of the treaties are beneficial and present opportunities that are within Australia’s national interest,’ Mr Sharma said. ‘The double taxation treaty with Israel will make it easier to do business between the two countries. This will bring our nations closer together, supporting increased commercial trade, investment and innovation.’ In particular, the report includes a treaty extending protections for Australians in the Netherlands investigating the downing of MH17. Mr Sharma stated ‘the Committee welcomes the implementation of more permanent arrangements to assist Australia’s pursuit of accountability and justice for the victims and their loved ones.’ ‘This agreement reflects our commitment to justice over the downing of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17. Our two countries will continue to work shoulder to shoulder on this for as long as it takes.’ Further information on the treaties and the final report can be obtained from the Committee’s website. Media inquiries Ms Deyi Wu, Office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be holding public hearings on Monday 16 September 2019 into three treaties: Investments with Uruguay; the ISDS UN Convention; and Double Taxation with Israel.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 12 September 2019

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will be holding public hearings on Monday 16 September 2019 into three treaties: Investments with Uruguay; the ISDS UN Convention; and Double Taxation with Israel. Committee Chair Mr Dave Sharma MP says the hearings will be an opportunity for the Committee to examine increased transparency mechanisms as well as procedural safeguards for Investor-State dispute settlements. The Committee will also review the details of the treaty to eliminate double taxation between Australia and Israel. “This review fulfils the Australian Government’s request to expedite consideration of the treaty, which proposes to promote closer economic cooperation between Australia and Israel by reducing and clarifying taxation obligations,” Mr Sharma said. The Committee will hear from witnesses from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Treasury and other relevant government agencies. Public hearing details Date: Monday, 16 September 2019 Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House Investments Uruguay 11:00am to 11:45am ISDS UN Convention 11:45am to 12:30pm Double Taxation - Israel 12:30pm to 1:00pm The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live. Media inquiries Ms Deyi Wu, office of Mr Dave Sharma MP 02 9327 3988 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Convention between Australia and Iceland for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance and its Protocol (Reykjavík, 12 October 2022) (Tax Convention) and the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (Paris, 2 November 2001) (UCH Convention).

Media release issue date: Monday, 1 January 0001

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) has recommended the Australian Government ratifies the Convention between Australia and Iceland for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance and its Protocol (Reykjavík, 12 October 2022) (Tax Convention) and the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (Paris, 2 November 2001) (UCH Convention). The Tax Convention would establish a framework for the taxation of cross-border transactions between Australia and Iceland. It identifies the persons and taxes to which the Convention would apply, establishes where various types of income would be taxed, and specifies how relief from double taxation would be provided. JSCOT Chair Mr Josh Wilson MP said: “this would be the 46th double taxation agreement to which Australia is a party. Eliminating double taxation through the Tax Convention would encourage expanded investment and economic activity between Australia and Iceland.” The UCH Convention focuses on the protection and preservation of underwater cultural heritage that has been underwater continuously or periodically for at least 100 years. Mr Wilson said: “Australia has become a leader in UCH and proudly helped to draft this convention. Ratification would allow more scope for Australia to assist other state parties in the preservation of Australian UCH outside our own waters, like war ships sunk in battle. Australia would also be able to lead by example and encourage other states in the Asia-Pacific to become state parties.” The importance of preserving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander UCH was raised during the public hearing. Mr Wilson said: “Academics report that over the past 20,000 years 2 million square kilometres of Australia’s continental landmass has been submerged. This means that many historic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sites - dating back thousands of years - lie underwater and can be protected, preserved or studied.” The Committee considered evidence from the Government that the harmonisation of Commonwealth, state, and territory legal regimes would be encouraged as a result of ratification. This would help create a more consistent protection and management of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander UCH. “The preservation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander underwater cultural heritage is of vital importance to Australia, and this can be better protected through the provisions of the Convention,” said Mr Wilson. The Convention would also provide for public awareness of UCH, education, research, training in underwater archaeology and the exchange of technology. Notably, the Convention contains an Annex of Rules for activities directed at UCH.  As part of its inquiry into UCH, the Committee heard from a range of stakeholders in the field of UCH including government, non-government organisations, academics, and other specialists who all supported ratification. The Report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry. Media inquiries Mr Tim Watkin, Chief of Staff 0434 555 823 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4002 jsct@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.