Local governments unite on calls for a convention

Media release, 26 May 2010: As talks come to a close on nuclear disarmament at the United Nations in New York this week, actions by local governments from around Australia open. At least 17 councils around Australia have passed resolutions calling on Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to support a Nuclear Weapons Convention.

Mayors for Peace National Convenor, Councillor Helen Relph said, “This action by Local Governments sends a clear message to the Federal Government that there is support for Australia to play a key role internationally in calling for a Nuclear Weapons Convention. Local Government is taking the initiative on behalf of communities representing millions of Australians that this is an issue for us.”

The resolution passed by local governments supported recommendations made in a government report of the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT). Released in September 2009, the JSCOT report reviewed existing and emerging treaties involving Australia on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.

While the Rudd Government supported many of the reports recommendations, it has not adopted the recommendations in relation to supporting a Nuclear Weapons Convention.

In September 2009 the Lowy Institute released a poll that concluded 75% of Australians believe that nuclear disarmament should be a top priority for the Australian Government.

Brad Pettitt, Mayor of Fremantle said, “It is unacceptable to hold cities in jeopardy any longer to the threat of nuclear weapons. The community expectation on this issue is very clear. It is time that Australia affirmed its commitment towards a Nuclear Weapons Convention. This is a necessary, achievable and urgent step to take.”

This month at the Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in New York, the majority of non-nuclear weapons states countries have called for a NWC. “Support for a Nuclear Weapons Convention is now the strongest it’s been since the model convention was first launched 13 years ago,” said Cr Relph.

“The community and political expectation for a nuclear weapons free world is building. Australia has a wonderful opportunity to be a leading voice on this issue,” concluded Cr Relph.