The Autonomous Sanctions Act 2011(Cth) provides a framework for the implementation in Australia of autonomous sanctions.

Autonomous sanctions are punitive measures not involving the use of armed force which a government imposes as a matter of foreign policy – as opposed to an international obligation under a United Nations Security Council decision – in situations of international concern.

It is an offence to contravene a sanction law.

As sanctions may involve denying access to the financial system, financial institutions will need to monitor details of sanctions published by the Department of Foreign Affairs.