The APCML is a collaborative initiative of Defence Legal Division and the Melbourne University Law School.

CHARTER

The Charter of the APCML was drawn up in 2001 to facilitate cooperation amongst military forces of the Asia Pacific Region in the research, training and implementation of the laws governing military operations.
Please select to view the APCML Charter

AIMS

The Centre aims to promote greater understanding of and increased respect for the Rule of Law in all aspects of military affairs both within the Australian Defence Force and amongst militaries in the Asia Pacific Region. To this end we:

Prepare and deliver training programs
Please select to view the Courses page

Organise conferences, workshops, seminars and other activities

Promote academic research into key issues, including international humanitarian law, law of peace operations, international criminal law, and arms control & disarmament
Please select to view the Research page

Produce legal publications and materials
Please select to view the Publications page

Centralise the accumulation and processing of legal lessons learned

Undertake and support initiatives to promote and improve the flow of information to legal officers

Participate in military exercise design and development

Develop relevant relationships within the Asia Pacific Region

Develop contacts and mutual exchanges with other academic/military centres and with leading subject matter experts

Provide support for deployments, particularly for peace operations


LOCATIONS & FUNCTIONS

The APCML military node is co-located with the Australian Defence Force's Military Law Centre (MLC) in Sydney. The Director of the MLC also serves as the Deputy Director of APCML supported by military and civilian staff of the Defence Legal Division.
The MLC is responsible for the provision of legal training to ADF legal officers and the wider ADF organisation, whilst the APCML provides a crucial link between the military forces of the Asia Pacific region and the academic and humanitarian communities. The APCML is responsible for:
a.    The coordination, formulation and delivery of the APCML's core suite of courses;
b.    Involvement in the creation of legal lessons learnt doctrine produced by post military operation conferences and seminars; and
c.    Lecturing and doctrine development support to Military and Non Government Organisations and international organisations that  may be involved in contemporary military operations.