1.1
This report contains the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties’ review of the Agreement between the Government of Australia, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the Government of the United States of America for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (Canberra, 22 November 2021).
1.2
The Committee’s resolution of appointment empowers it to inquire into any treaty to which Australia has become a signatory, on the treaty being tabled in the Parliament.
1.3
The treaties, and matters arising from them, are evaluated to ensure that ratification is in the national interest, and that unintended or negative effects on Australia will not arise.
1.4
Prior to tabling, major treaty actions are subject to a National Interest Analysis, prepared by the Australian Government. This document considers the treaty, outlines the treaty obligations and any regulatory or financial implications, and reports the results of consultations undertaken with state and territory governments, federal, state and territory agencies, and with industry or non-government organisations.
1.5
The Committee takes account of this document in its examination of the treaty text, in addition to other evidence taken during the inquiry program.
1.6
A copy of the treaty considered in this report and the associated documentation may be accessed through the Committee’s website at:
1.7
This report also contains the Committee’s review of one minor treaty action: 2021 Amendment to Annex I of the International Convention against Doping in Sport.
1.8
The major treaty action reviewed in this report was advertised on the Committee website from the date of referral. Submissions for the treaty action were requested by 26 November 2021. 106 submissions were received.
1.9
The Committee held two public hearings in Canberra and by videoconference/teleconference on Monday, 29 November 2021 and Friday, 3 December 2021. The transcripts of evidence from the public hearings may be obtained from the Committee Secretariat or accessed through the Committee’s website.
1.10
A list of submissions received is at Appendix A and a list of witnesses who appeared at the public hearings is at Appendix B.