SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Australia condemns North Korea’s satellite launch on 21 November, which was a reckless act that seriously undermined security and stability in our region. This use of ballistic missile technology is in violation of UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.

Today, Australia is imposing targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on a further seven individuals and one entity associated with North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction or missile programs and the satellite launch.

These sanctions are issued in coordination with new designations announced by the United States, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

Australia is working with our allies and partners to slow the development of North Korea’s destabilising weapons programs and increase pressure on its procurement and revenue generation networks.

We share a commitment to addressing the security threat posed by North Korea. All countries should abide by their UNSC obligations in response to North Korea’s violations.

North Korea must comply fully with UNSC resolutions to abandon its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.

Together with our partners, we call on North Korea to engage in constructive dialogue and move toward permanent peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Media Contact:
Foreign Minister's Office: +61 2 6277 7500

Authorised by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia.