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10/11/2025

Australian Antarctic Division

Regulator function

Protecting and conserving Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, including the Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands, through regulation in accordance with international obligations. 

Legislation
  • Antarctic Treaty Act 1960 
  • Antarctic Treaty (Environment Protection) Act 1990 (and regulations)
  • Antarctic Marine Living Resources Conservation Act 1981 (and regulations)
  • Environment Protection Management Ordinance 1987
  • Heard Island and McDonald Islands Act 1953
  • Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
  • Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000
  • Australian Antarctic Territory Acceptance Act 1933
  • Australian Antarctic Territory Act 1954 
Regulated community
  • Any Australians undertaking an activity in Antarctica and anyone undertaking an activity at Heard Island and McDonald Islands
  • Antarctic science community
  • Australian Antarctic Program
  • Tourist operators
  • Private individuals visiting Antarctica 
Portfolio
Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Internal to department / external
Internal
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