Introduction

1.1This report contains the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties’ (JSCOT) review of the Amendments to the Annex of the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic, 1965 (London, 13 May 2022) (the Amendments).

1.2The Committee’s resolution of appointment empowers it to inquire into any treaty to which Australia has become a signatory, upon the treaty being tabled in the Parliament or as referred by a Minister.

1.3The treaties, and matters arising from them, are evaluated to ensure ratification is in the national interest, and that unintended or negative effects on Australia do not arise.

1.4Prior to tabling, major treaty actions are subject to a National Interest Analysis (NIA), prepared by the Australian Government. The NIA 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.

1.5The Committee takes account of the NIA in its examination of the treaty text, in addition to other evidence taken during the Inquiry.

1.6A copy of the treaty considered in this report and the associated documents may be accessed through the Committee’s website at:

www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Treaties/MaritimeTraffic

Conduct of the Committee’s review

1.7The Treaty was published on the Committee website on 7 November 2023. Submissions were requested by 21 November 2023. Two submissions were received prior to the public hearing and one Question on Notice submission following the hearing.

1.8The Committee held a public hearing in person on 27 November 2023. The transcript of evidence from the public hearing can be accessed through the Committee’s website.

1.9A list of submissions received is at Appendix A and a list of witnesses who appeared at the public hearing is at Appendix B.