International relations

The IT sector includes companies involved in the provision of products and services, including software, hardware, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Telecommunications and webhosting companies also face sanctions risks when providing services or infrastructure.

Low-risk sectors in relation to sanctions refer to areas of business activity that are less likely to be directly targeted by sanctions or have a lower potential for sanctions contraventions. While it is challenging to classify any sector as entirely 'low risk' some areas are typically regarded as having less exposure to sanctions.

This guidance note details the restrictions on dealing with sanctioned vessels. It also outlines the responsibilities of individuals and businesses to take reasonable precautions and exercise due diligence to ensure adherence to sanctions. This guidance is aimed at the financial and maritime sector.

Fintech (financial technology) and DeFi (decentralised finance) companies are required to adhere to Australian sanctions laws. It is expected that Fintech and DeFi companies (companies) have in place sanctions compliance policies, and appropriate risk mitigations measures.

This Guidance Note is produced by the Australian Sanctions Office (ASO) within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). It provides a summary of relevant sanctions laws but does not cover all possible sanctions risks. 

The report, which focuses primarily on unlawful DPRK-Russia military cooperation including arms transfers and Russia’s training of DPRK troops, consolidates information provided by MSMT participating states on violations and evasions of sanction measures stipulated in relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). The report also contains information provided by open source intelligence organizations.

We share Czechia’s deep concern about the increased scale and severity of malicious cyber activity by state-affiliated actors. 

The Joint Programme will leverage existing UN agency networks and programs to underpin and support the Platform, providing a foundation upon which the Platform can advance coordinated action on primary prevention. 

Joint media release of Australia, Canada and New Zealand on the occasion of the APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting, 11-12 May, Education Ministers Meeting, 13-14 May, and Ministers Responsible for Trade meeting, 15-16 May 2025 in Jeju, Republic of Korea.

The Australian Government is appalled at the sham trial and 13-year sentence given to Australian man Oscar Jenkins. As a full serving member of the regular Armed Forces of Ukraine, Mr Jenkins is a prisoner of war.