Australia’s High Court has ruled unanimously to block Russia from building a new embassy in Canberra, reinforcing the government’s 2023 decision to cancel Moscow’s lease on security grounds.
The decision comes after months of legal wrangling between the Russian government and Australia, following Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s swift action last year to prevent the establishment of a new Russian diplomatic compound just 300 metres away from Parliament House.
Albanese stated then that the move was based on “very clear security advice” regarding potential risks posed by Russia’s proximity to one of the most secure and sensitive sites in the nation.
In 2008, Russia had obtained a 99-year lease for A$2.75 million (approximately USD 1.79 million) to construct a new embassy to replace its existing one in Griffith, a Canberra suburb. Although construction began, it never reached completion.
Russia challenged the government’s intervention, claiming the Australian Parliament had overstepped its constitutional powers by passing the Home Affairs Act 2023 — legislation specifically crafted to revoke the lease. However, the High Court unanimously upheld the government’s position, declaring that parliament acted within its constitutional authority and that Russia was entitled to compensation on “just terms.”
The judgment emphasized that the absence of a new use for the seized land did not nullify the requirement for compensation, reinforcing the rule of law even in sensitive geopolitical contexts.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland welcomed the verdict, calling it “a clear statement that Australia will always stand firm on matters of national security and sovereignty.” She added, “We will continue to protect our nation’s interests, no matter who challenges us.”
The Russian Embassy has yet to respond publicly to the ruling.
