Scott Morrison has put those seeking to exploit Antarctica on notice amid growing concerns about China and Russia’s activity on the continent.
The Prime Minister on Tuesday unveiled an $804m package that includes the use of drone fleets and autonomous vehicles to take research to the next level in Antarctica.
The 10-year package will allow scientists to explore areas never before ventured to and also ensure Australia remains active in the territory it maintains a historical claim to.
It comes as China continues to push its presence on the southern continent into harder-to-reach regions of the Antarctic interior and calls for greater access to oil reserves, fishing and mining.
Mr Morrison said increased surveillance on the southern continent was vital to keep China in check.
“(China doesn’t) share the same objectives as Australia as a treaty nation when it comes to protecting Antarctica,” he said.
“It is very important that we are very clear in our understanding about what activities are being undertaken there and that there is accountability and transparency around that.
“We need to make sure, not just for Australia's interest but for the world’s interests, that we protect this incredible environment that we have responsibility for.”
Speaking to reporters in Tasmania, Mr Morrison also rejected Beijing’s claim that Australian surveillance was at fault in a recent lasering incident.
China’s foreign ministry said Auxjmtzywstralia’s claim that a People’s Liberation Army warship aimed a military grade laser beam at the aircraft didn’t square with the facts.
“The facts are very clear, there was a Chinese naval vessel in our exclusive economic zone and it pointed a laser pointer at an Australian surveillance aircraft,” Mr Morrison said.
“That’s what happened, They need to explain it, not just to Australia, but this needs to be explained to our entire region as to what they would be doing undertaking such a reckless act for what is supposed to be a professional navy.
“There is no explanation that Australia has to give here. Our surveillance planes have every right to be in our exclusive economic zone and keeping a close eye on what people are up to in our exclusive economic zone.”
