Media Release
12 July, 2009
Australia Implements New UN Sanctions Against North Korea
Australia welcomed the United Nations Security Council's unanimous adoption of Resolution 1874 in response to North Korea's nuclear test on 25 May. Resolution 1874 sends a clear and united signal from the international community that North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile tests are unacceptable.
The Australian Government has amended regulations implementing sanctions against North Korea, bringing Australian law into line with its obligations under Resolution 1874.
Under the amended regulations, no arms or related matériel, except for small arms and light weapons, can be supplied to North Korea. No arms or related matériel can be procured from North Korea.
It is now illegal to enter into a financial transaction, or provide technical training or other forms of services, relating to prohibited arms or related matériel coming from or going to North Korea. It is also now illegal to provide fuel, supplies or other bunkering services to a North Korean vessel where it is believed on reasonable grounds that the vessel is carrying any goods that are subject to United Nations sanctions.
Full implementation of United Nations sanctions will restrict North Korea's ability to proliferate or further develop its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Australia will work closely with the international community to implement Resolution 1874 and previous resolutions fully.
Australia has also imposed its own autonomous sanctions on the DPRK since 2006. These include a visa ban on all DPRK citizens, a ban on port entry by DPRK-flagged vessels and financial restrictions on 12 DPRK entities and one individual. Bilateral aid has been suspended since 2002.
Media inquiries:
- Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500
- Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555