Australia, Indonesia Finalize Landmark Security Treaty to Deepen Defense Cooperation
Leaders seal new security treaty in Sydney.
Australia and Indonesia finalized negotiations for a landmark security treaty on Wednesday, committing to deeper military ties and mutual consultations on threats. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and President Prabowo Subianto announced the agreement at a Royal Australian Navy base in Sydney, describing it as a pivotal step to ensure regional peace through coordinated action. The treaty builds on a 2024 defense pact and includes provisions for joint responses to security challenges.
The new accord mandates regular leader-level and ministerial consultations on defense matters, alongside provisions for joint or individual measures if either nation faces threats. Albanese emphasized that the treaty recognizes the strategic necessity of collaboration between neighbors, with plans to formally sign it during his visit to Indonesia next year. Thousands of troops from both countries already conducted joint exercises in Java following the 2024 agreement.
Prabowo underscored the importance of neighborly cooperation, stating that countries cannot choose their geographic proximity and must support each other in difficult times. The treaty facilitates enhanced defense collaboration without aligning Indonesia fully with Australia’s close ties to the United States. Jakarta maintains a neutral stance amid U.S.-China tensions, while Canberra strengthens regional alliances to counter Beijing’s growing influence.
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Australia has intensified military partnerships across the Pacific, including a September defense treaty with Papua New Guinea that pledges mutual defense against armed attacks and emerging threats. Joint drills involving Australia, Indonesia, the U.S., and allies occurred in August, reflecting broader efforts to secure the Indo-Pacific. The Australia-Indonesia treaty marks a significant alignment despite differing geopolitical approaches.
With less than 300 kilometers separating the two nations at their closest point, the agreement solidifies bilateral security architecture amid escalating regional rivalries. It positions Australia and Indonesia to respond collectively to instability while preserving Indonesia’s strategic autonomy. The treaty signals a maturing partnership focused on stability in a contested Asia-Pacific landscape.
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