Australian security zone plans dropped

AUSTRALIA’S plan for a 1,000-nautical-mile maritime security zone has been dropped, apparently after the country’s government realised it no powers to stop vessels outside its territorial waters and after strong complaints from neighbouring states.

According to The Australian, ships will now be asked "on a wholly voluntary basis" to provide information about their identity, position and intended movement when they come within 500 nautical miles offshore.

The Australian reports that project is now called the Australian Maritime Identification System which the government says would be "based on co-operative international arrangements, particularly with neighbouring countries, and in accordance with international and domestic law".