I will travel to New York next week to seek the establishment of an international criminal tribunal by the UN Security Council (UNSC) to hold to account those responsible for the downing of Flight MH17.

One year ago the UNSC unanimously demanded accountability for the downing of MH17, which claimed 298 lives, including 39 people who called Australia home. It is now time for the UNSC to take decisive action to ensure accountability and the delivery of justice for the victims and their loved ones.

In New York, together with the four other members of the Joint Investigation Team (Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and the Ukraine), I will seek the support of all members of the Security Council in establishing a tribunal.

This horrific incident has far reaching implications for the safety of all air travellers and security of the international community. The UNSC must send a strong message to the growing number of non-state actors who have the ability to target civilian aircraft that such attacks will not be tolerated. Ending impunity is critical to deterring future attacks.

The UNSC is faced with a critical decision next week and I am determined to work with the international community to achieve accountability and closure – for the sake of the victims of MH17 and for their loved ones.