Treaties Committee recommends ratification of High Seas Treaty

THE Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) has tabled a report recommending the ratification of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement).

The BBNJ Agreement is also referred to as the High Seas Treaty. It addresses gaps in marine biodiversity conservation in areas beyond national jurisdiction through a variety of mechanisms, including area-based management tools and environmental impact assessments. By enhancing coordination between its signatories and the sharing of benefits relating to marine genetic resources, the agreement reinforces a global effort to improve ocean health.

Committee Chair, Lisa Chesters MP, said, "This agreement will enhance domestic environmental action, improve scientific endeavours, strengthen international rules-based order and support Australia’s foreign policy objectives.

"Australia has been a long-time advocate for this agreement and has played an influential role in its negotiation. Being an early ratifier will ensure that Australia can continue to influence decisions relating to the agreement’s implementation and will subsequently enhance global environmental action.

"The good health of the ocean and its biodiversity provides Australia with cultural, social and economic benefits and is complementary to the government’s nature-positive agendas," Ms Chesters said.

The report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiries.

 

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