AUSTRALIA

Compiled from the December 2004 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Commonwealth of Australia

PROFILE

Geography

Area: 7.7 million sq. km. (3 million sq. mi.); about the size of the 48 contiguous United States.

Cities: (2003) Capital—Canberra (pop. 323,000). Other cities—Sydney (4.2 million), Melbourne (3.6 million), Brisbane (1.7 million), Perth (1.4 million).

Terrain: Varied, but generally low-lying.

Climate: Relatively dry, ranging from temperate in the south to tropical in the north.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective—Australian(s).

Population: (2004) 20.2 million.

Annual population growth rate: 1.2%.

Ethnic groups: European 92%, Asian 6%, Aboriginal 2%.

Religions: (2001) Anglican 21%, Roman Catholic 27%, other Christian 20%, other non-Christian 5%, no religion 16% and not stated 12%.

Languages: English.

Education: Years compulsory—to age 15 in all states except Tasmania, where it is 16. Literacy—85%.

Health: Infant mortality rate—5/1,000. Life expectancy—males 77 yrs., females 82 yrs.

Work force: (10.3 million) Agriculture—4%; mining, manufacturing, construction, and utilities—21%; services—70%; public administration and defense—5%.

Government

Type: Democratic, federal-state system recognizing British monarch as sovereign.

Constitution: July 9, 1900.

Independence: (federation) January 1, 1901.

Branches: Head of state is the governor general, who is appointed by the Queen of Australia (the British Monarch). Legislative—bicameral Parliament (76-member Senate, 150-member House of Representatives). The House of Representatives selects as head of government the Prime Minister, who then appoints his cabinet. Judicial—independent judiciary.

Administrative subdivisions: Six states and two territories.

Political parties: Liberal, Nationals, Australian Labor, Australian Democrats, Australian Greens, and Family First. The Liberal Party and the Nationals form the governing coalition.

Suffrage: Universal and compulsory over 18.

Central government budget: FY 2003-04—$129.3 billion; FY 2004-05—$138.4 billion.

Defense: 1.9% of GDP for FY 2004-05.

Economy

GDP: (2003) $504.4 billion.

Inflation rate: (2003) 2.8% p.a.

Trade: Exports ($91.8 billion, 2003)—coal, gold, iron ore, crude oil and petroleum products, wheat, aluminum. Major markets—Japan, U.S. ($8.1 billion), China, New Zealand, South Korea. Imports ($107.3 billion, 2003) passenger motor vehicles, computers, crude oil and petroleum products, aircraft and parts, medicaments. Major suppliers—U.S. ($16.8 billion), Japan, China, Germany, U.K., New Zealand, Taiwan, and Singapore.

PEOPLE

Australia's aboriginal inhabitants, a hunting-gathering people generally referred to as Aboriginals and Torres Straits Islanders, arrived more than 40,000 years ago. Although their technical culture remained static—depending on wood, bone, and stone tools and weapons—their spiritual and social life was highly complex. Most spoke several languages, and confederacies sometimes linked widely scattered tribal groups. Aboriginal population density ranged from 1 person per square mile along the coasts to 1 person per 35 square miles in the arid interior. When Capt. James Cook claimed Australia for Great Britain in 1770, the native population may have numbered 300,000 in as many as 500 tribes speaking many different languages. The aboriginal population currently numbers more than 410,000, representing about 2.2% of the population. Since the end of World War II, the government and the public have made efforts to be more responsive to aboriginal rights and needs.

Immigration has been a key to Australia's development since the beginning of European settlement in 1788. For generations, most settlers came from the British Isles, and the people of Australia are still predominantly of British or Irish origin, with a culture and outlook similar to those of Americans. However, since the end of World War II, the population has more than doubled; non-European immigration, mostly from the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America, has increased significantly since 1960 through an extensive, planned immigration program. From 1945 through 2000, nearly 5.9 million immigrants settled in Australia, and about 80% have remained; nearly two of every seven Australians is foreign-born. Britain and Ireland have been the largest sources of post-war immigrants, followed by Italy, Greece, New Zealand, and the former Yugoslavia.

Australia's refugee admissions of about 12,000 per year are in addition to the normal immigration program. In recent years, refugees from Africa, the Middle East, and Southwest Asia have comprised the largest element in Australia's refugee program.

Although Australia has scarcely more than two people per square kilometer, it is one of the world's most urbanized countries. Less than 15% of the population lives in rural areas.

Cultural Achievements

Much of Australia's culture is derived from European roots, but distinctive Australian features have evolved from the environment, aboriginal culture, and the influence of Australia's neighbors. The vigor and originality of the arts in Australia—films, opera, music, painting, theater, dance, and crafts—are achieving international recognition.

Australian actors such as Nicole Kidman, Rachel Griffiths, Cate Blanchett, Russell Crowe, Geoffrey Rush, Paul Hogan, Hugh Jackman, and Heath Ledger have achieved enormous popularity in the United States. Australian movies and directors such as Peter Weir and Philip Noyes also are well known.

Australia has had a significant school of painting since the early days of European settlement, and Australians with international reputations include Sidney Nolan, Russell Drysdale, and Pro Hart and Arthur Boyd. Writers who have achieved world recognition include Thomas Keneally, Colleen McCullough, Nevil Shute, Morris West, Jill Ker Conway, and Nobel Prize winner Patrick White.

HISTORY

Australia was uninhabited until stone-culture peoples arrived, perhaps by boat across the waters separating the island from the Indonesia archipelago more than 40,000 years ago. Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and English explorers observed the island before 1770, when Captain Cook explored the east coast and claimed it for Great Britain (three American colonists were crew members aboard Cook's ship, the Endeavour).

On January 26, 1788 (now celebrated as Australia Day), the First Fleet under Capt. Arthur Phillip landed at Sydney, and formal proclamation of the establishment of the Colony of New South Wales followed on February 7. Many but by no means all of the first settlers were convicts, condemned for offenses that today would often be thought trivial. The mid-19th century saw the beginning of government policies to emancipate convicts and assist the immigration of free persons. The discovery of gold in 1851 led to increased population, wealth, and trade.

The six colonies that now constitute the states of the Australian Commonwealth were established in the following order: New South Wales, 1788; Tasmania, 1825; Western Australia, 1830; South Australia, 1836; Victoria, 1851; and Queensland, 1859. Settlement had preceded these dates in most cases. Discussions between Australian and British representatives led to adoption by the British Government of an act to constitute the Commonwealth of Australia in 1900. Since Federation, the Commonwealth Government has established to two self-governing territories: the Northern Territory, 1978; and the Australian Capital Territory (where the national capital, Canberra, is located), 1989.

The first federal Parliament was opened at Melbourne in May 1901 by the Duke of York (later King George V). In May 1927, the seat of government was transferred to Canberra, a planned city designed by an American, Walter Burley Griffin. The first session of Parliament in that city was opened by another Duke of York (later King George VI). Australia passed the Statute of Westminster Adoption Act on October 9, 1942, which officially established Australia's complete autonomy in both internal and external affairs. Its passage formalized a situation that had existed for years. The Australia Act (1986) eliminated the last vestiges of British legal authority.

GOVERNMENT

The Commonwealth government was created with a Constitution patterned partly on the U.S. Constitution, although it does not include a "bill of rights." The powers of the Commonwealth are specifically defined in the Constitution, and the residual powers remain with the states.

Australia is an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state and since 1973 has been officially styled "Queen of Australia." The Queen is

represented throughout Australia by a governor general and in each state by a governor.

The federal Parliament is bicameral, consisting of a 76-member Senate and a 150-member House of Representatives. Twelve senators from each state are elected for 6-year terms, with half elected every 3 years. Each territory has two senators who are elected for 3-year terms. The members of the House of Representatives are allocated among the states and territories roughly in proportion to population. In ordinary legislation, the two chambers have coordinate powers, but all proposals for appropriating revenue or imposing taxes must be introduced in the House of Representatives. Under the prevailing Westminster parliamentary system, the leader of the political party or coalition of parties that wins a majority of the seats in the House of Representatives is named prime minister. The prime minister and the cabinet wield actual power and are responsible to the Parliament, of which they must be elected members. General elections are held at least once every 3 years; the last general election was in October 2004.

Each state is headed by a premier, who is the leader of the party with a majority or a working minority in the lower house of the state legislature. Australia's two self-governing territories have political systems similar to those of the states. The Territories are headed by Chief Ministers who are the leader of the party with a majority or a working minority in the territories' legislature.

At the apex of the court system is the High Court of Australia. It has general appellate jurisdiction over all other federal and state courts and possesses the power of constitutional review.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 11/29/04

Governor General: Jeffery , Michael, Maj. Gen. (Ret.)
Prime Minister: Howard , John
Dep. Prime Min.: Anderson , John
Min. for Aging: Bishop , Julie
Min. for Agriculture, Fisheries, & Forestry: Truss , Warren
Min. for the Arts & Sport: Kemp , Rod
Min. for Citizenship & Multicultural Affairs: McGauran , Peter
Min. for Communications, Information Technology, & the Arts: Coonan , Helen
Min. for Defense: Hill , Robert M.
Min. for Education, Science, & Training: Nelson , Brendan
Min. for Employment & Workplace Relations: Andrews , Kevin
Min. for the Environment & Heritage: Campbell , Ian
Min. for Family & Community Services: Patterson , Kay
Min. for Finance & Administration: Minchin , Nicholas "Nick"
Min. for Fisheries, Forestry, & Conservation: McDonald , Ian
Min. for Foreign Affairs: Downer , Alexander
Min. for Health & Aging: Abbot , Anthony "Tony"
Min. for Human Resources: Hockey , Joe
Min. for Immigration & Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs: Vanstone , Amanda
Min. for Industry, Tourism, & Resources: MacFarlane , Ian E.
Min. for Justice & Customs: Ellison , Christopher
Min. of Local Government, Territories, & Roads: Lloyd , Jim
Min. for Revenue: Brough , Mal
Min. for Small Business & Tourism: Bailey , Fran
Min. for Trade: Vaile , Mark
Min. for Transport & Regional Services: Anderson , John
Min. for Veterans' Affairs: Kelly , De-Anne
Min. for Vocational & Technical Education: Hardgrave , Gary
Min. for Workforce Participation: Dutton , Peter
Treasurer: Costello , Peter
Special Min. of State: Abetz , Eric
Attorney General: Ruddock , Philip
Chmn., Reserve Bank: Macfarlane , Ian J.
Ambassador to the US: Thawley , Michael
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Dauth , John

Australia maintains an embassy in the United States at 1601 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 (tel. 202-797-3000), and consulates general in New York (212-408-8400), San Francisco (415-362-6160), Honolulu (808-524-5050), Los Angeles (310-229-4800), Chicago (312-419-1480) and Atlanta (404-880-1700).

POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Three political parties dominate the center of the Australian political spectrum: the Liberal Party (LP), nominally representing urban business-related groups; the Nationals, nominally representing rural interests; and the Australian Labor Party (ALP), nominally representing the trade unions and liberal groups. Although embracing some leftists, the ALP traditionally has been moderately socialist in its policies and approaches to social issues. All political groups are tied by tradition to domestic welfare policies that have kept Australia in the forefront of societies offering extensive social welfare programs. Australia's social welfare programs have been reduced, however, in response to budgetary pressures and a changing political outlook. There is strong bipartisan sentiment on many international issues, including Australia's commitment to its alliance with the United States.

The Liberal Party/Nationals coalition came to power in 1996, ending 13 years of ALP government and electing John Howard Prime Minister. Reelected in October 1998, November 2001, and October 2004, the coalition now holds 87 seats (75 Liberal/12 National) in the House of Representatives, against 60 for the ALP, and 3 independents. Currently, the coalition holds 35 seats, against 28 for the ALP, 7 for the Australian Democrats, 2 for the Greens, 1 for One Nation, 1 for the Australian Progressive Alliance, and 2 independents. However, when the recently elected Senators take their places on July 1, 2005, the coalition will hold a 39-seat majority in the 76-seat chamber, against 28 for the ALP, 4 for the Australian Democrats, 4 for the Australian Greens, and 1 for the Family First party.

Howard's conservative coalition moved quickly to reduce Australia's government deficit and the influence of organized labor, and reform Australia's tax and social welfare systems. The Howard government also has accelerated the pace of privatization, beginning with the government-owned telecommunications corporation. The Howard government has continued the foreign policy of its predecessors, based on relations with four key countries: the United States, Japan, China, and Indonesia. The Howard government strongly supports U.S. engagement in the Asia-Pacific region and has sent troops as part of the coalitions in Afghanistan and Iraq. National elections took place October 9, 2004, and likely will take place again in late 2007 or early 2008.

ECONOMY

Australia's advanced market economy is dominated by its services sector (70% of GDP), yet it is the agricultural and mining sectors (7% of GDP combined) that account for the bulk (57%) of Australia's goods and services exports. Australia's comparative advantage in primary products is a reflection of the natural wealth of the Australian continent and its small domestic market; 20 million people occupy a continent the size of the contiguous United States. The relative size of the manufacturing sector has been declining for several decades, and now accounts for around 11% of GDP.

Australia commenced a basic reorientation of its economy in the 1980s and has transformed itself from an inward looking, import-substitution country to an internationally competitive, export-oriented one. Key reforms included unilaterally reducing high tariffs and other protective barriers; floating the Australian dollar exchange rate; deregulating the financial services sector, including liberalizing access for foreign bank branches; making efforts to restructure the highly centralized system of industrial relations and labor bargaining; better integrating the state economies into a national federal system; improving and standardizing the national infrastructure; privatizing many government-owned services and public utilities; and fundamentally reforming the taxation system, including introducing a broad-based Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The ultimate goal is for Australia to become a competitive producer and exporter, not just of traditional farm and mineral commodities, but also of a diversified mix of high value-added manufactured products, services, and technologies. Australia was one of the OECD's fastest-growing economies throughout the 1990s, a performance that owed much to the economic reform program. Despite a transient slowdown in late 2000, it has been 14 years since Australia experienced a recession and economic growth remains robust. Economic growth should be around 3% in 2004, despite the negative effect of the prolonged drought on Australian agricultural exports. The latest predictions suggest that GDP growth will exceed 3% over the next 2 years.

The United States and Australia concluded negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in February 2004. The FTA has been ratified by both the U.S. Congress and the Australian Parliament. The AUSFTA will enter into force on January 1, 2005. The AUSFTA marks the first FTA the U.S. has concluded with a developed economy since the U.S.-Canada FTA in 1988.

FOREIGN RELATIONS

Australia has been active participant in international affairs since World War I and has fought beside the United States and other Allies in every significant conflict to the present day. In 1944, it concluded an agreement with New Zealand dealing with the security, welfare, and advancement of the people of the independent territories of the Pacific (the ANZAC pact). After the war, Australia played a role in the Far Eastern Commission in Japan and supported Indonesian independence during that country's revolt against the Dutch (1945-49). Australia was one of the founders of both the United Nations and the South Pacific Commission (1947), and in 1950, it proposed the Colombo Plan to assist developing countries in Asia. In addition to contributing to UN forces in Korea—it was the first country to announce it would do so after the United States—Australia sent troops to assist in putting down the communist revolt in Malaya in 1948-60 and later to combat the Indonesian-supported invasion of Sarawak in 1963-65. The U.S., Australia and New Zealand signed the ANZUS Treaty in 1951, which remains Australia's only formal security treaty alliance. Australia also sent troops to assist South Vietnamese and U.S. forces in Vietnam and joined coalition forces in the Persian Gulf conflict in 1991, in Afghanistan in 2002, and in Iraq in 2003.

Australia has been active in the Australia-New Zealand-U.K. agreement and the Five-Power Defense Arrangements—successive arrangements with Britain and New Zealand to ensure the security of Singapore and Malaysia.

One of the drafters of the UN Charter, Australia has given firm support to the United Nations and its specialized agencies. It was a member of the Security Council in 1986-87, a member of the Economic and Social Council for 1986-89, and a member of the UN Human Rights Commission for 1994-96 and 2003-2005. Australia takes a prominent part in many other UN activities, including peacekeeping, nonproliferation and disarmament negotiations, and narcotics control. Australia also is active in meetings of the Commonwealth Regional Heads of Government and the Pacific Islands Forum, and has been a leader in the Cairns Group—countries pressing for agricultural trade reform in World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations—and in the APEC forum.

Australia has devoted particular attention to relations between developed and developing nations, with emphasis on the ten countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the island states of the South Pacific. Australia is an active participant in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), which promotes regional cooperation on security issues. In September 1999, acting under a UN Security Council mandate, Australia led an international coalition to restore order in East Timor upon Indonesia's withdrawal from that territory.

Australia will provide over $1.6 billion ($A2.1 billion) as official development assistance in FY 2004-05. The Australian aid program is currently concentrated in Southeast Asia (Papua New Guinea is the largest-single recipient) and the Pacific Islands. In 2003, Australia led a regional mission to restore law and order in Solomon Islands. In 2004, Australia commenced a 5-year $0.8 billion ($A1.1 billion) enhanced cooperation program, which involved government officials working alongside their PNG counterparts. Selected aid flows are allocated to Africa, South Asia, and reconstruction in Afghanistan and Iraq. Contributions to multilateral organizations and other expenses account for about one-third of the foreign assistance budget.

ANZUS AND DEFENSE

The Australia, New Zealand, United States (ANZUS) security treaty was concluded at San Francisco on September 1, 1951, and entered into force on April 29, 1952. The treaty bound the signatories to recognize that an armed attack in the Pacific area on any of them would endanger the peace and safety of the others. It committed them to consult in the event of a threat and, in the event of attack, to meet the common danger in accordance with their respective constitutional processes. The three nations also pledged to maintain and develop individual and collective capabilities to resist attack.

In 1985, the nature of the ANZUS alliance changed after the Government of New Zealand refused access to its ports by nuclear-weapons-capable and nuclear-powered ships of the U.S. Navy. The United States suspended defense obligations to New Zealand, and annual bilateral meetings between the U.S. Secretary of State and the Australian Foreign Minister replaced annual meetings of the ANZUS Council of Foreign Ministers. The first bilateral meeting was held in Canberra in 1985. At the second, in San Francisco in 1986, the United States and Australia announced that the United States was suspending its treaty security obligations to New Zealand pending the restoration of port access. Subsequent bilateral Australia-U.S. Ministerial (AUSMIN) meetings have alternated between Australia and the United States. The 16th AUSMIN meeting took place in Washington on July 7, 2004.

The U.S.-Australia alliance under the ANZUS Treaty remains in full force. Defense ministers of one or both nations have joined the annual ministerial meetings, which are supplemented by consultations between the U.S. Combatant Commander, Pacific and the Australian Chief of Defense Force. There also are regular civilian and military consultations between the two governments at lower levels.

ANZUS has no integrated defense structure or dedicated forces. However, in fulfillment of ANZUS obligations, Australia and the United States conduct a variety of joint activities. These include military exercises ranging from naval and landing exercises at the task-group level to battalion-level special forces training, assigning officers to each other's armed services, and standardizing, where possible, equipment and operational doctrine. The two countries also operate joint defense facilities in Australia.

Following the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, Australian Prime Minister Howard invoked the ANZUS Treaty for the first time on September 14, 2001. Australia was one of the earliest participants in Operation Enduring Freedom. Australian Defense Forces participated in coalition military action against Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Australian military and civilian specialists are participating in the training of Iraqi security forces and the reconstruction of Iraq.

After a review in 2000 of Australia's future defense needs, the government made a commitment to increase defense spending by an average of 3% a year for the next 10 years. The Australian Defense Force numbers about 52,000 active duty personnel. The Royal Australian Navy's front-line fleet currently includes 12 frigates, including 6 of the Perry class and 6 Australian-built ANZAC class, with 2 more to be delivered by 2006. The last of six submarines of the new, indigenous Collins class was commissioned in March 2003. In August 2004, Australia selected the Aegis Combat Control System for its three air warfare destroyers, which will start coming into service in 2013. The F/A-18 fighter, built in Australia under license from the U.S. manufacturer, is the principal combat aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, backed by the U.S.-built F-111 strike aircraft. In October 2002, Australia became a Level III partner in the U.S.-led Joint Strike Fighter program. Recent U.S. sales to the Royal Australian Army include the M1A1 AIM tank, as well as Hellfire and JAVELIN munitions.

U.S.-AUSTRALIAN RELATIONS

The World War II experience, similarities in culture and historical background, and shared democratic values have made U.S. relations with Australia exceptionally strong and close. Ties linking the two nations cover the entire spectrum of international relations—from commercial, cultural, and environmental contacts to political and defense cooperation. Two-way trade reached $25 billion in 2003. More than 400,000 Americans have visited Australia in a single year.

Traditional friendship is reinforced by the wide range of common interests and similar views on most major international questions. For example, both countries sent military forces to the Persian Gulf in support of UN Security Council resolutions relating to Iraq's occupation of Kuwait; both attach high priority to controlling and eventually eliminating chemical weapons, other weapons of mass destruction, and anti-personnel land-mines; and both work closely on global environmental issues such as slowing climate change and preserving coral reefs. The Australian Government and opposition share the view that Australia's security depends on firm ties with the United States, and the ANZUS Treaty enjoys broad bipartisan support. Recent Presidential visits to Australia (in 1991, 1996 and 2003) and Australian Prime Ministerial visits to the United States (in 1995, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004) have underscored the strength and closeness of the alliance.

Trade issues have generated bilateral friction. In recent years, especially because of Australia's large trade deficit with the United States, Australians have protested U.S. barriers against their exports of some primary products and fast ferries. Of particular note, Australia's access to the U.S. market for sugar remained unchanged under the recently-negotiated AUSFTA. Australia's sugar exports to the U.S. remains strictly controlled by the country-specific U.S. quota program. Australia also opposes as "extraterritorial" U.S. sanctions legislation against Cuba, Iran, and Libya. Australia remains concerned that U.S. agricultural subsidies may allow U.S. products to undercut Australian grain, dairy products, and other agricultural commodities in the Asia-Pacific region and elsewhere. For its part, the United States has concerns about Australian quarantine barriers to imports of meat and some fruits; changes in Australian law governing intellectual property protection; and Australian Government procurement practices. Many of these issues have been subsumed under the comprehensive bilateral FTA.

Both countries share a commitment to liberalizing global trade. They work together very closely in the World Trade Organization (WTO), and both are active members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

A number of U.S. institutions conduct scientific activities in Australia because of its geographical position, large land mass, advanced technology, and, above all, the ready cooperation of its government and scientists. Under an agreement dating back to 1960 and since renewed, the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) maintains in Australia one of its largest and most important program outside the United States, including a number of tracking facilities vital to the U.S. space program. Indicative of the broadranging U.S.-Australian cooperation on other global issues, a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) was concluded in 1997, enhancing already close bilateral cooperation on legal and counter-narcotics issues. In 2001, the U.S. and Australia signed a new tax treaty and a bilateral social security agreement.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

CANBERRA (E) Address: American Embassy Canberra, Moonah Place, Yarralumla ACT 2600 AUSTRALIA; APO/FPO: PSC 277 APO AP 96549; Phone: 61-2-6214-5600; Fax: 61-2-6214-5970; Workweek: Mon–Fri/8:00am to 5:00pm; Website: http://usembassy-australia.state.gov

MELBOURNE (CG) Address: 553 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 3004; APO/FPO: PSC 278, APO, AP 96551; Phone: (61) (3) 9526 5900; Fax: (61) (3) 9510-4646; Work-week: M–F, 8:00-5:00.

SYDNEY (CG) Address: 59th Floor, MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Place; APO/FPO: PSC 280, Unit 11026, APO, AP 96554-0002; Phone: (61)(2)9373-9200; Fax: (61) (2) 9373-9125; Workweek: M–F, 0815-1700; Website: http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/sydney

PERTH (C) Address: Level 13, 16 St Georges Tce; APO/FPO: Unit 11021 APO AP96530; Phone: 61-8-9202-1224; Fax: 61-8-9231-9444; Work-week: M–F; 8:00 am-5:00 pm; Website: http://perth.usconsulate.gov

TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet

September 24, 2004

Country Description: Australia is a highly developed stable democracy with a federal-state system. Tourist facilities are widely available. The Australian Tourist Commission's internet website, http://www.australia.com/, provides a wide range of information of interest to travelers.

Entry/Exit Requirements: American citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport to enter Australia. Americans must enter with an Australian visa or, if eligible, through Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA, replaces a visa and allows a stay of up to three months. It may be obtained for a small service fee at http://www.eta.immi.gov.au. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to issue ETAs. Please note that American citizens who overstay their ETA or visa, even for short periods, may be subject to exclusion, detention and removal. More information about the ETA and entry requirements may be obtained from the Embassy of Australia at 1601 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202) 797-3000, or via the Australian Embassy home page on the Internet at http://www.austemb.org. Visa inquires may be directed to the Australian Visa Information Service at 888-990-8888.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

Dual Nationality: In addition to being subject to all Australian laws affecting U.S. citizens, individuals who also possess the nationality of Australia may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of that country. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer. For information about the Government of Australia's approach to dual nationality, see http://www.citizenship.gov.au.

Safety and Security: Australia has instituted an alert system for possible terrorist attacks. The threat levels range from "low" to "high." The Australian Attorney General's Office maintains a website with up-to-date information regarding the current assessment of the terrorism threat at http://www.nationalsecurity.gov.au. American citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. Travelers may also contact the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Crime: Visitors should be aware that street crime, burglaries, and car thefts are a daily occurrence in the larger cities. Weapons are increasingly used in such crimes, which also may be associated with drug trafficking and usage. Foreign visitors are sometimes targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers and petty thieves. Appropriate, common sense precautions should be taken, especially at night, to avoid becoming a target of opportunity. To call for fire/police/ambulance services throughout Australia, dial "000" for urgent assistance.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, help you find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

Medical Facilities: Excellent medical care is available. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Most doctors and hospitals except immediate cash/credit card payment for health services.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

Other Medical Information: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Visitors are cautioned that Australian fauna can be as dangerous as they are inspiring. From jellyfish off the Great Barrier Reef to crocodiles and sharks, poisonous insects and snakes, the continent and its waters host wildlife that merit awe and respect in equal doses. Further information on Australian wildlife may be obtained from the Australian Institute of Marine Science at http://www.aims.gov.au/dma and the Wet Tropics Management Authority information on marine life at http://www.wettropics.gov.au/vi/vi_marine.html and the Wet Tropics Management Authority information on animals at http://www.wettropics.gov.au/vi/vi_animals.html. Swimmers should use safety precautions, swim only where a lifeguard is present, and never swim alone. Scuba diving can be a treacherous sport. Over the past few years there have been numerous deaths related to diving incidents. Divers are urged to follow recommended precautions and never dive alone.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Australia is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Good

Visitors are reminded that all traffic operates on the left side of the road, and that all vehicles use right-hand drive. Visitors should use caution when crossing streets and when driving. When crossing roads, pedestrians are reminded to look carefully in all directions. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits and laws regarding driving while intoxicated are rigorously enforced. Roads and streets are frequently narrower and less graded than U.S. highways. Outside the major metropolitan areas, most highways are two-lane roads with significant distances between destinations.

Drivers are urged to exercise caution while passing or merging with adjacent traffic. When driving in rural areas, particularly in the Northern Territory where there are no speed limits, drivers should be cautious of free-roaming animals and "road-trains" (several semi-truck trailers hooked together). It is dangerous to pass road-trains, and it is advisable to pull over and allow on-coming road-trains to pass to avoid being sideswiped. A number of fatalities have occurred in the Northern Territory when vehicles, driven at high rates of speed, have skidded and overturned after hitting the loose gravel shoulder of the road. U.S. drivers, especially those inexperienced with 4-wheel drive vehicles, should exercise common-sense judgment when driving in outback Australia.

For specific information concerning Australian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, mandatory insurance and the rental and operation of motor vehicles in Australia, contact the Australian Tourist Commission via the internet at http://www.australia.com.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Australia's civil aviation authority as Category 1—in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Australia's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

Customs Regulations: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for other products, animals, and pets. These regulations also apply to items tourists bring with them. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, or see the Australian Government's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry at http://www.aqis.gov.au.

In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found here.

Australian customs officials encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. The ATA Carnet Headquarters located at the U.S. Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480, or send an email to [email protected], or visit http://www.uscib.org for details.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Australia's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Australia are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien, to engage in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18, whether or not the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident alien intended to engage in such illicit sexual conduct prior to going abroad. For purposes of the PROTECT Act, illicit sexual conduct includes any commercial sex act in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18. The law defines a commercial sex act as any sex act, on account of which anything of value is given to or received by a person under the age of 18.

Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Predators Act of 1998, it is a crime to use the mail or any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transmit information about a minor under the age of 16 for criminal sexual purposes that include, among other things, the production of child pornography. This same law makes it a crime to use any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transport obscene materials to minors under the age of 16.

Disaster Preparedness: General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/.

During times of minimal rainfall, usually in the warmer months of October to April, intense bushfires may occur. Although mostly confined to remote areas, bushfires have encroached on towns. Even the outskirts of Sydney, Canberra, and other major cities have been affected, with bushfires severely damaging or destroying suburban properties. In the event of a bushfire, travelers should keep their personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, readily accessible in the event immediate evacuation is necessary.

Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/family/index.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

Registration/Embassy Location: Americans living in or visiting Australia are encouraged to register using the Internet Based Registration System (IBRS), which can be found at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs. Alternatively, you can register in person at the nearest U.S. Consulate to obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.

In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) or Queanbeyan: For emergency services (i.e. the arrest, death or serious injury of American citizens) please contact the U.S. Embassy in Canberra. The Embassy is located on Moonah Place, Yarralumla, A.C.T. 2600, telephone (61)(2) 6214-5600, fax (61)(2) 6273-3191, website http://canberra.usembassy.gov. NOTE: Passports, and other routine citizen services for Canberra and the rest of the ACT are provided by the U.S. Consulate in Sydney (see contact information below).

In New South Wales, Norfolk Island, Lord Howe Island and Queensland: For registration, passport, and other consular services for American citizens, please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney located on Level 59, MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Place, Sydney NSW 2000, telephone (61)(2) 9373-9200, fax (61)(2) 9373-9184, web site http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/sydney. Hours open to the public: 8:00 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday (except American and Australian holidays). For emergency services (i.e. the arrest, death or serious injury of American citizens) after 4:30 p.m. weekdays or on holidays and weekends please call (61) (2) 4422-2201.

In Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and the Northern Territory: For registration, passport and other consular services for American citizens, please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne located at 553 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004, telephone (61)(3) 9526-5900, fax (61)(3) 9525-0769, website http://melbourne.usconsulate.gov/melbourne. Hours open to the public: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday to Friday (except American and Australian holidays and the last Wednesday of each month). For emergency services (i.e. the arrest, death or serious injury of American citizens) after 4:30 p.m. or on holidays and weekends, please call (61)(3) 9389-3601.

In Western Australia: For registration, passport, and other consular services for American citizens, please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Perth located on Level 13, 16 St. Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000, telephone: (61)(8) 9202-1224, fax (61)(8) 9231-9444; web site http://perth.usconsulate.gov/perth. Hours open to the public for American Citizen Services: 8:30-11:30 a.m. daily. For emergency services (e.g., the arrest, death, or serious injury of American citizens), please call (61) (8) 9476-0081.

International Adoption

January 2005

The information below has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the InternationalAdoption section of this book and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.

Disclaimer: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of a specific foreign country is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign legal counsel.

Australian Adoption Authority: The government office responsible for adoptions in Australia is the Department of Community Services.

Australian Adoption Procedures: The first step for local and inter-country adoptions is to purchase an information package from the Department of Community Services (DCS). The cost is $41AUD and is available from the Adoption Services Branch, Department of Community Services, P.O. Box 3485, Parramatta, NSW 2124. You may also contact this agency by telephone, 61-2-9865-5906, and by e-mail, [email protected].

If after reading the material you remain interested in adoption, you must complete the "Expression of Interest" form included in the information package. The Department of Community Services (DCS) recommends that you make yourself aware of all the adoption information before submitting your Expression of Interest. As children become available for adoption, DCS will select prospective parents based on the submitted Expression of Interest forms. If you are selected you will be invited to attend an adoption preparation seminar. Following the completion of this seminar you will have the opportunity to submit a formal adoption application. The application forms will be provided at the conclusion of the Adoption Preparation Seminar.

If you are interested in Special Needs Adoptions (i.e. children with significant physical and/or intellectual disabilities; children who present behavioral or emotional challenges) you should contact the DCS Adoption Services Branch directly.

Age and Civil Status Requirements: Prospective parents must be the age of majority. They need not be married.

Adoption Agencies and Attorneys: DCS has licensed three private agencies in New South Wales:

Centacare Adoption Services
9 Alexandria Avenue
Croydon, NSW 2132
Tel: 61-2-9745-3133

Anglicare Adoption Services
19A Gibbons Street
Telopea, NSW 2117
Tel: 61-2-9890-6855

Barnados Australia Adoptions (specializing in the placement of older children aged 2-12 years who are emotionally demanding. They work only with people who live within an 80km radius of Sydney.)

1664 Bay Street
Ultimo, NSW 2007
Tel: 61-2-9281-5510

Australian Documentary Requirements: Contact the Department of Community Services or one of the licensed agencies.

Doctors: The U.S. Consulate General in Sydney maintains current lists of doctors and sources for medicines, should either you or your child experience health problems while in Australia.

Australian Embassy in the United States: The Embassy of Australia; 1601 Massachusetts Avenue, NW; Washington, DC 20036; Tel.: (202) 797-3000; Fax: (202) 797-3209.

Australia also maintains Consulate Generals and Consulates in the following U.S. cities: Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Honolulu, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

U.S. Consulate General—Sydney, Australia: U.S. Consulate General; American Citizen Services; MLC Centre, 59th Floor; 19-29 Martin Place; Sydney, NSW 2000; Tel: 61-2-9373-9200; Fax: 61-2-9373-9184.

Questions: Specific questions regarding adoption in Australia may be addressed to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Sydney. You may also contact the Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, 2201 C Street, NW, U.S. Department of State, Washington, DC 20520-2818, telephone 1-888-407-4747 with specific questions.

International Parental Child Abduction

January 2005

The information below has been edited from the report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Parental Child Abduction section of this book and review current reports online at travel.state.gov

Disclaimer: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of a specific foreign country is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign legal counsel.

General Information: Custody in Australia is referred to as "parental responsibility." Unless there is a court order to the contrary, the parents of a child are assumed to have "joint parental responsibility." A court-issued "residence" order specifies who will be the primary physical custodian of the child. A "contact" order is similar to a U.S. visitation or access order. Australian family courts adjudicate petitions on a case-by-case basis with the judge applying the "best interests of the child" standard.

If your child has a claim to Australian citizenship, you may be able to prevent the issuance of an Australian passport to your child. Please contact a consular officer at the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C. (202-797-3000) for further information. There is also an Australian Consulate in California (310-229-4800).

The Hague Convention: The Hague Convention entered into force between the United States and Australia on July 1, 1988. Therefore, Hague Convention provisions for return would apply to children abducted to or retained in Australia after July 1, 1988. Under certain circumstances, parents and legal guardians of children taken to Australia prior to July 1, 1988, may still submit applications for access to the child under the Hague Convention.

The designated Central Authority for all of Australia is the Commonwealth Attorney General's Department, International Family Law Section, which is part of the Family Law and Legal Assistance Division. Their address is Robert Garran Offices, National Circuit, Barton, ACT 2600, Australia. The international telephone number is 011-61-2-6250-6724 and the international telefax number is 011-61-2-6250-5917. The Section maintains a website, which is located at http://www.law.gov.au/childabduction

The Attorney General's Department coordinates the implementation of the Hague Convention through the Family Law (Child Abduction Convention) Regulations. Legal proceedings in Australia for the return of children are conducted by the State and Territory Central Authorities operating in each of the six states and two territories of the Australian Commonwealth on behalf of the Australian Central Authority.

The Commonwealth Central Authority receives and reviews the application(s) submitted by overseas Central Authorities. Once the location of a child is known, the file is forwarded to the Central Authority of that particular State or Territory for filing with the Family Law Court. The State or Territory Central Authority then conducts the litigation, taking instructions from the Commonwealth Central Authority. It is very important to understand that a left-behind parent is not a party to the legal proceedings initiated by the Central Authority in Australia. The Central Authority is the Plaintiff and the abducting parent is the Respondent. The Central Authority lawyers do not take instructions relating to the conduct of the case directly from the left-behind parent.

In most cases, the left-behind parent will not be required to attend the Australian court proceedings.

It is unnecessary for a left-behind parent to retain a private lawyer in Australia when the Central Authority is conducting the case. It achieves no purpose and is an unnecessary imposition on the left-behind parent's financial resources. It can also cause delays rather than speeding up the process.

The Australian Abduction Regulations do, however, permit a left-behind parent to retain an Australian lawyer and initiate private proceedings under the Hague, if the Central Authority refuses to accept the left-behind parent's application or if the left-behind parent wishes to conduct his/her own case. In that case, the Central Authority will not provide representation and the proceedings will be conducted at the expense of the left-behind parent.

Information on retaining a foreign attorney and attorney lists are available from the Office of Children's Issues or can be downloaded from our website.

The Australian Central Authority pays all legal costs connected with the application for the return of a child if the application is filed with the Central Authority. The left-behind parent must agree to cover the cost of the return airfare for the child if there is an order for return. Depending on the circumstances of an individual case, a Court may order the taking parent to cover these costs.

If a left-behind parent wishes to conduct his/her own case, he/she is responsible for all expenses incurred.

Sometimes the Australian Court order may impose certain undertakings or conditions for return. These may include, but are not limited to, requiring the left-behind parent to provide: transportation costs for the child; a sworn affidavit stating the left-behind parent will not pursue criminal charges against the taking parent; and a sworn affidavit stating the left-behind parent will not seek enforcement of a temporary ex-parte custody order issued in the United States immediately following the child's return.

Mirror Orders: A final U.S. court order can be registered in the Australian Family Court. The Family Court is a federal court, so orders are enforceable throughout Australia. The process for registration is set out in Regulation 23 of the Australian Family Law Regulations. For more information, please read the International Parental Child Abduction section of this book and review current reports online at travel.state.gov.