The Australian government has implemented new sanctions targeting Russian oil tankers, marking its first direct action against the so-called "shadow fleet" used to circumvent international restrictions on Moscow's energy exports.
Effective June 18, 2023, under the Autonomous Sanctions Act and relevant international laws, the measures specifically designate 60 Russian vessels engaged in transporting oil through deceptive practices. These include flag-switching, disabling tracking systems, and operating without proper insurance—tactics that have enabled continued funding of Russia's military aggression in Ukraine.
Section 42 of the Autonomous Sanctions Act classifies such operations as serious violations, granting authorities power to protect national security and global order. The sanctioned tankers are now barred from Australian ports and commercial activities, with their affiliated companies added to the sanctions list.
The government has further invoked Section 16 of the Economic Sanctions Regulations to freeze all Australian assets linked to these vessels. Individuals or entities conducting business with designated tankers or owners face potential criminal prosecution, underscoring Canberra's commitment to holding Russia accountable.
This action builds upon Australia's February 2023 sanctions—its largest single round since 2022—which targeted 70 individuals and 79 entities while banning drone exports to Russia. Under Section 28 of the Compliance and Regulatory Act, Australia has now imposed over 1,400 sanctions against Russian interests since the invasion began.
The tanker sanctions represent a coordinated Western effort to tighten restrictions on Russia's energy trade. By targeting the shadow fleet's opaque operations, Australia aims to degrade Moscow's ability to finance its war machine through illicit oil sales—a critical step in aligning economic pressure with international security objectives.
