Commonwealth Consolidated Acts

CRIMES (BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS) ACT 1976 - SECT 8

             (1)  It is unlawful to develop, produce, stockpile or otherwise acquire or retain:

                     (a)  microbial or other biological agents, or toxins whatever their origin or method of production, of types and in quantities that have no justification for prophylactic, protective or other peaceful purposes; or

                     (b)  weapons, equipment or means of delivery designed to use such agents or toxins for hostile purposes or in armed conflict.

             (2)  A corporation that, or a natural person who, does an act or thing declared by subsection (1) to be unlawful is guilty of an offence and is punishable, on conviction:

                     (a)  in the case of a corporation--by a fine not exceeding $200,000; and

                     (b)  in the case of a natural person--by a fine not exceeding $10,000, or by imprisonment for a specified period or for life, or both.

             (3)  An expression that is used in this section and in the Convention has in this section the same meaning as in the Convention.