Media release

with the Hon Robert McClelland MP, Attorney-General

17 May 2008

Re-engagement with United Nations on Torture

The United Nations Committee Against Torture has commended several new initiatives of the Rudd Government in its concluding observations released today, after an Australian delegation appeared before the Committee on 29 and 30 April.

Attorney-General Robert McClelland and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Stephen Smith, welcomed the concluding observations of the Committee.

"The Committee appreciated the significance of the Prime Minister's apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the Government's commitment to become a party to the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and the changes the Government has made to Australia's immigration system, in particular in ending the Pacific Solution," Mr McClelland said.

The Committee praised Australia for the comprehensive information provided on measures that have been taken to implement the Convention in Australia, as well as the constructive dialogue with Australia's delegation.

"In its first appearance before a UN treaty body, the Government adopted a positive and helpful approach and will take the same approach to responding to the Committee," Mr Smith said. "This shows Australia is re-engaging with UN processes, too long neglected by the previous Government."

"Action is already underway in relation to a number of the issues commented on by the committee," said Mr McClelland. "For example, the Government has signalled it will be consulting the Australian community on how best to recognise and protect human rights and responsibilities."

"The Government will now commence consideration of the Committee's recommendations, in consultation with States and Territories."

Australia's next report under the Convention Against Torture is due by 30 June 2012.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555