The Australian Government strongly condemns today's missile launch by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).
We are deeply concerned by this provocative act which breaches United Nations Security Council Resolution 1718.
Even if the launch involves the deployment of a satellite, Australia considers that the use of missile technology - the same technology that the DPRK uses for its offensive ballistic missile program - breaches the UN Resolution.
We urge the United Nations Security Council to immediately consider further action.
Instead of engaging in this provocative action, the DPRK is urged to work constructively with others involved in the Six-Party Talks towards resolving the challenges on the Korean peninsula.
Australia is a strong supporter of the Six-Party Talks and will continue to work closely with member countries to encourage the DPRK to denuclearise and abandon its ballistic missile program.