QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:29): Thank you for the question. I indicated that, in addition to the action we've already taken, we were intending to take further targeted action. I can indicate to you that right now Australians can't trade with sanctioned individuals or entities in the West Bank and the sanctions we impose apply to Australian citizens and corporations wherever they are in the world.

Australian law already bans buying, importing or transporting goods from sanctioned individuals and entities. Individuals who commit sanctions offences can receive up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $910,000 or three times the value of the relevant transaction. Businesses can be fined up to $3.64 million or three times the value of the transaction.

In relation to settlements, we've been clear that the Netanyahu government's actions in the West Bank—the rapid expansion of settlements, the proposed E1 settlement development and flagrant settler violence—are extinguishing the possibility of a two-state solution, and that remains the only path to enduring peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians. That is why, with international partners, we recognise the state of Palestine.

That's why we are strengthening the institutional foundations of the state. It's why, with partners, we've imposed travel bans and targeted financial sanctions on Israeli ministers and others I described earlier. Yesterday I announced that we are continuing to pursue further targeted measures in coordination with international partners to deter illegal settlements and settler violence.

I would note that, in response to Australia's actions, Israel has revoked the visas of Australian diplomats, effectively expelling them from Ramallah.