Legislation implementing Australia's obligations under the 1998
Rome Statute for the establishment of an International Criminal
Court passed the Parliament and received Royal Assent today. This
legislation paves the way for Australia to ratify the Statute.
Our instrument of ratification will be deposited in New York on
Monday July 1, the day the Court's Statute enters into force. This
will ensure that Australia will be represented as a full member
at the first Assembly of States Parties which will determine the
election procedures for the judges, prosecutor and the registrar.
The assembly, in September, will also adopt other instruments including
the Elements of Crimes, and Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
Media enquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / Julie
McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555
