Crossbench MPs launch push to stop Australian military exports being used in human rights breaches
Summary
A group of crossbench Australian MPs plans to introduce a bill aiming to stop Australian military goods from being used in actions that violate human rights, especially by the Israeli military. The bill would make it illegal for Australian defense equipment and technology to be used in ways that break international human rights laws and would require companies to report genocide risks in their supply chains.Key Facts
- The bill targets Australian-made parts used in Israeli F-35 fighter jets, which have been used in Gaza.
- It aims to align Australia’s laws with international human rights obligations.
- The legislation seeks to prevent Australian companies from investing in activities linked to illegal Israeli settlements.
- The bill proposes creating an independent anti-genocide commissioner.
- Defence Minister Richard Marles says Australia’s contribution to F-35s is non-lethal and part of a long-term agreement with the US, not Israel.
- The bill is supported by crossbench MPs including David Pocock, Sophie Scamps, Greens leader Mehreen Faruqi, independents Lidia Thorpe, Andrew Wilkie, and Fatima Payman.
- It would require large businesses and government entities to report on risks of genocide in their operations.
- The Australian Labor government is not expected to support the private member’s bill.
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