THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AUSTRALIAN ANTARCTIC STRATEGY AND 20 YEAR ACTION PLAN IN MAINTAINING AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL SECURITY INTEREST IN ANTARCTIC REGION (2013-2018)

Abstract

Antarctica is the one and only inhabited continent in the world and doesn’t belong to any party. The United States Department of Interior and Geological Survey in 1974 reported that Antarctica saved rich mineral resources under the ice sheet. Even though it is quite difficult to gain mineral from Antarctica but many nations considered Antarctica as their strategic environment as the future potentials that Antarctic has. As the potentials yet the risk of conflict that likely happen in Antarctica, in 1959 twelve sovereign states decided to establish Antarctic Treaty System. The Treaty governs on how nation able to deliver their interest in Antarctica which through scientific research purposes and no military activity. In past decade, Australian Antarctic Program’s commitment was low while the new players were emerging and increased presence in Antarctica. China and Russia in past decade has ramped up their economic presence in Antarctica, especially in Australian Antarctic Territory. Respond this situation Australian Government published Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action Plan in 2014 and 2016. Australia obviously increased its economic presence through the implementation of the action plan. The significant strategy actions has been done are the establishment of new ice breaker, new research stations, and increased the number of collaboration with leading partners.