Working Papers: The Enforcement Aspects of Australia’s Oceans Policy

Abstract

This paper examines the implications of the enforcement framework discussed in Australia’s Oceans Policy (AOP) on the RAN. The legislative and administrative tools appear sufficient, but the capability to enforce the framework, particularly in waters away from the mainland, is deficient. Australia’s international obligations for enforcement are growing, particularly in the area of fisheries enforcement in cooperation with neighbours in the Southwest Pacific. It is likely that, with these growing obligations and a recognised deficiency, the ADF, and particularly the RAN, will be called upon to undertake a greater enforcement role within the marine domain. The recommendations are that enforcement capacity be enhanced and that the RAN ought to reassess its mission.

Availability

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