It is arguable that the timing of the negotiations between Australia and Indonesia (i.e. after
North Sea Continental Shelf Case but pre UNCLOS 1982), were a significant factor in setting
Australia’s position on the delimitation of its boundary in the Timor Sea on the basis of the
natural prolongation concept. The successful assertion of this position in its negotiations with
Indonesia, made it problematic for Australia to change its position in subsequent negotiations
with East Timor