CANBERRA, July 5 (Xinhua) -- Australia categorically condemns Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)'s first launch of an Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile, said a statement by Julie Bishop, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday.
The missile launch is "a dangerous and provocative act that destabilises the region and directly threatens all nations within range of this offensive weapon," said the statement.
"Australia will work with our international partners and allies to demonstrate that a provocation of this kind will bear consequences."
She also said that the missile test by DPRK is in breach of numerous United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
"Australia has agreed to expanded autonomous sanctions against North Korea in response to its persistent threatening behavior.
"These sanctions will target North Korea's extractive industries and its shipping network.
"We will expand the grounds on which the Government can designate individuals and entities for targeted financial sanctions and travel bans."
Bishop said Australia supports defensive measures required to respond to the threat posed by DPRK offensive missiles.
