Autonomous Sanctions Amendment (Iran and Syria) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Opened the debate

Ayres argued that the autonomous sanctions framework is a vital foreign policy tool for responding to international concerns. Ayres stated that the bill resolves questions about the validity and enforceability of certain sanctioned goods instruments. Ayres explained that these instruments were previously published as Gazette notices instead of being registered as legislative instruments. Ayres maintained that the legislation preserves the effectiveness of sanctions against malign actors and repressive regimes.

Government response

Ayres moved that the bill be read a second time and sought leave to incorporate the second reading speech into Hansard. Ayres asserted that the bill clarifies the legal status of sanctions instruments to ensure they remain enforceable. Ayres emphasised that the measures prevent Australian goods and technology from supporting malign international actors. Ayres concluded that the bill upholds Australia's commitment to international norms and national interests.