In this submission, we will aim to specifically address the questions posed by the paper, in addition to the broader theme of the paper regarding the introduction of a mandatory disclosure regime in Australia. 

 How can Australia ensure greater transparency and accountability of payments to governments by Australian extractive industries companies where they operate? 

Australia can ensure greater transparency and accountability of payments to governments by Australian extractive industries companies through the introduction of legislation that requires extractive companies listed or based in Australia to disclose all payments made to governments on a country-by-country and project-by-project basis. This legislation should be harmonised with existing laws introduced by the European Union and Governments in Canada, Norway, Switzerland and the United States to the extent that that is possible…