We have today listed in the Australian Government Gazette the names of terrorists and terrorist organisations whose assets must be frozen by the holder of those assets under the Charter of the United Nations (Anti-terrorism Measures) Regulations 2001.

Our listing of these names implements Australia's obligation under UN Security Council Resolution 1373 of 28 September 2001 to suppress the financing of terrorism.  All countries are required to take these steps as part of global efforts to combat terrorism.  This action shows the Government's commitment to Australia playing its part to ensure that we do not become a financial haven for terrorists.

The first list contains the names of individuals and groups that have been linked to Al Qaida, Osama bin Laden and the Taliban.  The second list contains the names of internationally recognised foreign terrorist organisations.  The detailed lists and explanatory material are available at http://www.dfat.gov.au/icat/index.html. 

The Regulations prohibit Australian citizens or people or bodies corporate in Australia from dealing with the funds or other assets of the individuals and groups that are listed.  They also prohibit making funds or other assets available to listed persons or entities.  All individuals or entities that hold assets on behalf of others should ensure that they comply with the Regulations.

The Government places a very high priority on ensuring that these new measures are comprehensively and fairly implemented.  The Australian Federal Police's Operation Drava can assist anyone who suspects they may hold assets belonging to any person or entity on the list. Contact details are as follows:

National Financial Coordinator        
Operation Drava
Australian Federal Police
GPO Box 401
CANBERRA  ACT  2601

Telephone:  (02) 6256 7777
E-mail:  financialcoordinator@afp.gov.au

The Government will also submit Australia's report to the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee on Australia's implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1373.  This Report will be available online at www.dfat.gov.au.

Media inquiries: Nicole Guihot (Mr Downer's office) 02 6277 7500 /  Catherine Fitzpatrick (Mr William's office) 02 6277 7300