Under the spotlight: Hearings on social security, nuclear research cooperation and vehicle standards

THE Treaties Committee will hold a public hearing in Canberra on Monday to examine three separate treaties: a bilateral social security agreement with New Zealand, a multilateral agreement for regional cooperation for nuclear research, and a multilateral agreement for the harmonisation of standards for vehicles.

Committee Chair Stuart Robert MP said public hearings allow the text of each treaty to be carefully examined.    

“Although treaty making remains the prerogative of the Executive, the role of the Committee is to examine each treaty brought before it, to determine if it is in the national interest. This public hearing is an opportunity for the Committee to examine the terms of each treaty and ensure that they meet the needs and expectations of Australians and is in our national interest,” Mr Robert said.

Social Security Agreement – New Zealand

Under this Agreement people who have lived in both countries will have access to specified income support payments in their current country of residence. The new Agreement replaces a similar existing agreement, and provides that both countries will contribute to these social security payments on a proportional basis.

Nuclear Research Cooperation Agreement

The proposed Agreement will facilitate regional cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy in the East Asia-Pacific region, through joint research, development and training projects. The proposed Agreement is an important mechanism to fulfil Australia’s obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. 

Harmonisation of Wheeled Vehicles – Revision

The proposed Agreement updates earlier agreements that harmonise technical safety and environmental regulations for vehicles, and consequently reduce barriers to the international export and import of vehicles between countries.

Public Hearing Details: 11am - 1pm Monday 27 February, Committee Room 1R1, Parliament House, Canberra

11:10am: Social Security Agreement - New Zealand
Department of Social Services

11:50am: Nuclear Research Cooperation Agreement
Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation

12:30pm: Harmonisation of Wheeled Vehicles - Revision
Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development

1pm: Close

The hearing will be webcast in audio format at www.aph.gov.au/live.

Interested members of the public may wish to track the committee via the website.

ends