I think the reason you have heard nothing from the Australian Government could be as per your suggestions (re barbie’s and tinny’s) plus there are no surprises here.

If it was a surprise for our ex-colonial masters that in an election year there was going to be a delay, then they are not playing the ball in this game. If there were a tote on the timing of the US Senate ratification of the treaties the odds would be even or worse for a delay. Not much money won here.

Besides – my reading of the Australian Treaty and Implementing Arrangements – DoS giveth and DoS taketh away. There as much to dislike as like in the treaty.

The comment about the footy was going over the line – it IS grand final season here. You are stepping into very hallowed ground.