In accordance with seasonal tradition, we thought we would bring
you an update as to current developments as we reach the end of
2010.
International Developments
Australia has been involved with a number of recent
international developments.
Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement
Australia has announced the completion of negotiations for the
Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement
("ACTA") affecting 37 other countries.
Although the form of the ACTA is still subject to formal legal
review, Parliamentary review by the Joint Standing Committee on
Treaties and approval by the Federal Parliament, it seems clear
that it will be adopted by Australia. Although the Australian
Government officials have made it clear that adoption of the ACTA
will not require changes to Australian law and regulation (on the
basis that our current regime is "world's best
practice"), we should expect to see increased review and focus
on export and transhipment goods to identify those which may
