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Non-space faring nations could support the Code and use its consultative
and reporting mechanisms to facilitate restraint. Space faring nations may
well think more carefully and act more cautiously with a widely endorsed
Code in place than might be the case otherwise.
Australia is well-placed to encourage medium and
small powers to adopt the Code.
Australia's Place in the World
Australia's international standing and influence is defined by three numbers,
one large and two small. The large number relates to the sheer size of the
continent and, even more so, the surrounding seas and oceans for which the
nation has sovereign or international obligations; in sum, around 13 per cent
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of the total surface of the Earth. The first small number relates to
population; there are 23 million people in Australia, representing less than
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0.4% of the world's population. The second small number relates to the
economy. In 2012, although the Australian economy was in GDP terms the
12th largest in the world, this equates only to about two per cent of the
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world's overall wealth.
Australian governments routinely describe Australia as a “middle power with
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global interests” or “a capable middle power that is able to contribute to
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global and regional security.” What this actually means in terms of capacity
to shape and influence world events, including through force if necessary, is
somewhat subjective but sums to insight about strengths and weaknesses and
a capacity and willingness to act, independently of others if necessary, in the
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national interest. Australia, as a direct result of its geography and vital
interests, has experience in the multi-lateral frameworks that build confidence
and allow nations to pursue their legitimate interests, more or less
harmoniously, in various global commons. In the 1970s, Australian diplomats
took a prominent role in the negotiations that eventually produced the UN
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Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Australia is an active
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supporter of the Antarctica Treaty regime and has also played a useful role
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in international negotiations focussed on nuclear non-proliferation. More
recently Australian officials have become involved in international
discussions aimed at developing norms to regulate behaviour in cyber
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space.
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