The Antarctic Treaty, which is at the heart of the regime that covers the vast region of sea and land surrounding the South Pole, has been in force for 50 years. Australia and the Antarctic Treaty System examines Australia's crucial contribution, past and present, within the system of cooperative governance established by the Antarctic Treaty.

The Antarctic Treaty system has been a notably successful international collaboration that has fostered scientific discovery, environmental protection and – most of all – peace, while enabling national interest and endeavour. Australia claims 42% of the Antarctic continent, yet the history of Australian foreign policy has a significant gap when it comes to the story of Australia's involvement in Antarctic politics and diplomacy: a story covering 50 years of influence. This book fills that gap.

This timely volume brings together an expert team of Australian academics and practitioners who draw on historical records, legal analysis, scientific research and political interviews in examining Australia's place in this remarkable part of the world.