Restriction on development etc. of certain biological agents and toxins and biological weapons
8 Restriction on development etc. of certain biological agents and toxins and biological weapons
It is unlawful to develop, produce, stockpile or otherwise acquire or retain:
microbial or other biological agents, or toxins whatever their origin or method of production, of types and in quantities that have no justification for prophylactic, protective or other peaceful purposes; or
weapons, equipment or means of delivery designed to use such agents or toxins for hostile purposes or in armed conflict.
A corporation that, or a natural person who, does an act or thing declared by subsection (1) to be unlawful commits an offence and is punishable, on conviction:
in the case of a corporation—by a fine not exceeding 2,000 penalty units; and
in the case of a natural person—by imprisonment for a specified period or for life, or a fine not exceeding 100 penalty units, or both.
An expression that is used in this section and in the Convention has in this section the same meaning as in the Convention.
This Act’s bill:Second reading speech
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