International relations

International law​We provide legal and policy advice to the government on the development of public international law and its implementation.

Private international law​We are the Central Authority for the Hague Convention to transmit documents for service between two countries party to the convention. We are also involved in projects to develop principles and rules to resolve private international law issues.

Extradition​We administer the Extradition Act. Our extradition relationships with partner countries help to combat crime. The Act sets out a number of requirements that must be met before Australia can make or accept an extradition request.

Human traffickingWe work with other governments and organisations to prevent human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices, prosecute the offenders, and protect and support victims.

Mutual assistance​We seek and provide government-to-government assistance in criminal matters with other countries.

International transfer of prisoners​This scheme allows people imprisoned in a foreign country to apply to serve the balance of their sentence in their own country.

Intercountry adoption​We work with the states and territories to manage overseas adoption arrangements.

International Pro Bono Advisory Group​The goal of the International Pro Bono Advisory Group is to better coordinate and target international pro bono work.

International child abduction​Find out how to make applications for the return of a child or access to a child under the Hague Child Abduction Convention or Australia's bilateral agreements with Egypt and Lebanon.

International legal assistance​We deliver aid that improves governance, security, justice, and promotes the rule of law within our partner countries.

People smuggling​We engage in ongoing legislative and policy work to promote mutual cooperation with our regional partners to combat people smuggling operations.