The Australian Greens are deeply concerned by reports that Japan has deployed military personnel on vessels to protect its Antarctic whaling fleet.

"This is unconscionable behaviour which must be immediately condemned by the Australian government to prevent possible escalation of violence in our southern seas," Senator Rachel Siewert, Greens Marine Spokesperson said today.

"News that the Japanese security escort Shonan Maru 2 is employing 'military-style tactics' is very worrying and a sign things might turn violent.

"Our Commonwealth should send a strong message to the Japanese Government that these tactics are unacceptable, and commence international legal action against the illegal whale slaughter.

The Antarctic Treaty specifically forbids military activity within the Antarctic zone.

"If the Japanese government are using military personnel, military equipment or military tactics - at what point does this effectively become a military exercise?

"Serious questions need to be asked by the Australian Government to establish if military personnel are in fact involved and whether this is yet another potential treaty violation by the Japanese whaling fleet.

"All we've seen so far is empty rhetoric from this government - all words and no action. The Japanese clearly know this and have stepped up their activities.

"The Australian Greens reiterate our call for Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to make any deal on a free trade agreement with Japan contingent on an end to Antarctic whaling.

"How much worse does the situation have to get before we see this government act? How many more whales will be killed in our southern oceans? How many more seasons will this Government allow?

"Taking legal action now would send a strong signal to the world that Australia is serious about saving the environment," Senator Siewert concluded.

Media Contact: Fernando de Freitas 0417 174 302