On Monday,final amendments to the government’s Foreign Relations Bill are expected to be passed in the Senate with Labor's support. The new laws will give the federal government sweeping powers to veto any agreements states,territories,local governments or universities make with foreign powers if they contradict Australia’s national interest.
One of the first issues in the government’s sights once the bill is law isVictoria’s controversial “Belt and Road Initiative” deal with China.
“I think[the federal government] should try and resolve this in a way that respects engagement with the state government and that recognises that China will observe how this is handled carefully,” Senator Wong said on ABC’sInsiders on Sunday morning.
The bill,as well as the federal government’s displeasure at the deal,wereon the list of 14 grievances leaked by China which pointed the finger at Canberra for the rapidly souring diplomatic relations between the countries.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews,who discussed the BRI last week with Prime Minister Scott Morrison,warned on Sunday that tearing up the deal could further sour relations with Beijing. He said it would not be the reset which was needed.
But Mr Andrews said ultimate responsibility laid with the federal government.
"This bill was not just about Chinese agreements,it's a broader thing and it is a matter for the Federal Parliament to determine whether that's what they want to do or not,''Mr Andrews said.