The Torres Strait Treaty is an agreement between Australia and Papua New Guinea which describes the boundaries between the two countries and how the sea area may be used. There are two main boundaries – the Seabed Jurisdiction Line and the Fisheries Jurisdiction Line – as well as a Protected Zone. The Treaty takes account of traditional activities, including sea and land use, trade, ceremonies and social gatherings, of the indigenous residents of the Torres Strait area.

Emeritus Professor Donald Denoon discusses the negotiations between the national governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea, the Queensland state government and Torres Strait Island representatives. The Treaty was signed in December 1978 but did not come into effect until February 1985.

Author: Donald Denoon
Publication date: 2009
Pages: 40

ISBN 978 1 920807 80 1