At a time when the sustainability of their fisheries and marine biodiversity is under pressure, their maritime entitlements may be at risk due to sea-level rise, and exploitation of seabed mineral deposits is becoming a reality, the Pacific Island States are seeking to more effectively manage their ocean resources. Establishing their maritime jurisdiction consistently with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea provides the foundation for this.

The Pacific Maritime Boundaries Project is a unique partnership between the Australian Government, regional and international organisations, and academia which is assisting the 14 Pacific Island States to:

• Negotiate maritime boundary treaties
• Review and update their maritime zones legislation, and legally establish the outer limits of their maritime zones, and
• Submit and defend their claims to areas of continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles in accordance with UN processes.

Robyn Frost will share her experiences of being involved in this highly successful project over the last four years. She will discuss the outcomes of the project, factors which have contributed to its success, and challenges for the future. Robyn’s main areas of practice are law of the sea, international environmental law and the implementation of international law into domestic law. She has also practised in international human rights law, refugee law and extradition.