The South China Sea has been a long disputed territory, with various countries holding conflicting views of ownership and activity in the area. Last week, Australia spoke out against China’s claims of the South China Sea, rejecting their position that they have ‘historical rights’ and ‘maritime rights and interests’ of the territory, further fuelling the ongoing dispute. This statement comes after the US announced their opposition to the military activity of China in the sea and their push for Australia to join in on more Freedom of Navigation operations. A push which Australia has not yet supported.

So what is so important about this territory and how does it effect Australia? 

2SER spoke with Professor Natalie Klein, an expert in Law of the Sea and international dispute settlements, from the UNSW Faculty of Law.