The Australian Muslim Advocacy Network (AMAN) has voiced significant concerns about the newly introduced Future Made in Australia Bills, which were discussed in Parliament last week.
These Bills propose a substantial increase in public funding for companies involved in military sales, potentially to Israel, raising questions about Australia’s adherence to international norms against genocide.
Legislative changes and risks
The Future Made in Australia Bills amend the Export Finance and Insurance Corporation Act 1991 to include defence activities under its purview. This legislative shift is presented as part of the ‘Future Made in Australia National Interest Framework,’ which aims to support domestic projects aligned with national defence priorities.
However, AMAN argues that these changes could expose Australia to severe legal and reputational risks due to the country’s potential involvement in military sales linked to human rights violations.
Concerns over international compliance
Australia’s recent legislative developments, including the removal of checks on military equipment sales to the US and UK, have raised alarms. Both countries are major suppliers to Israel.
The UN has recently called on Australia to halt arms transfers to Israel, including indirect transfers through intermediary nations. The Future Made in Australia Bills, according to AMAN, could facilitate these transfers, undermining Australia’s compliance with international legal standards designed to prevent genocide.
Current Australian legislation heavily relies on ministerial discretion, lacking specific red lines or mechanisms to address genocide risks directly. This lack of safeguards is particularly concerning given the ongoing genocide risk in Gaza and recent international legal proceedings against nations assisting Israel. AMAN emphasises the need for amendments to prevent misuse of public funds and ensure that Australia aligns with international human rights standards.
Government’s defence and trade objectives
Australia’s aspiration to become a top global arms exporter by 2028, coupled with its established defence partnerships with Israel, underscores the broader risk of these legislative changes.
As the Future Made in Australia Bills progress through Parliament, AMAN and other advocacy groups are calling for urgent amendments to ensure that Australia’s involvement in international arms trade does not compromise its adherence to global human rights standards.
This is a test for the Greens and Independents who’ve been strong on international law to move beyond motions and rhetoric, and dig down into substantive law reform.
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