As previously reported, the Australian government is undertaking a review of its international arbitration regime (see Legal update, Australian international arbitration legislation). On 17 June 2010, the Australian Parliament passed the International Arbitration Amendment Bill which will amend the International Arbitration Act 1974 to provide a more comprehensive framework for international arbitration in Australia. The Bill limits the grounds for judicial interference whilst also increasing court support for international arbitration.

The Australian government is also reviewing its domestic arbitration regime (Legal update, Australia to get new domestic arbitration legislation).

PLC Arbitration will publish a more detailed report on the review of Australian arbitration laws shortly.