Australia’s recent security agreements with Pacific Island nations are a testament to its commitment to remaining a leading presence in a region where the geopolitical stakes are rapidly intensifying. The agreements with Papua New Guinea (PNG), Nauru, and the Solomon Islands aim to address shared challenges, deepen strategic ties, and provide alternatives to Chinese investment that align more closely with Canberra’s interests. These initiatives reflect Australia’s calculated strategy to assert itself as the partner of choice, leveraging historical ties, regional familiarity, and a nuanced understanding of Pacific priorities to counter Beijing’s expanding influence in the region.
Australia’s Integrated Security and Development Framework
Australia has made boosting security and law enforcement in the Pacific a key part of its approach to the region. This includes programs like the Pacific Maritime Security Program, which delivers Guardian-class patrol boats to help Pacific nations tackle illegal activities at sea, and partnerships through forums such as the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police, with a focus on issues like cybersecurity. The Defence Cooperation Program also plays a big role, helping build local capabilities and strengthening relationships with Pacific countries.
At the same time, Australia’s strategy looks beyond immediate security needs to address long-term challenges by supporting good governance, humanitarian efforts, and development projects. Recognizing climate change as a major security issue, Australia is also weaving climate action into its overall strategy, working closely with Pacific nations to handle climate-related challenges. With this broad and collaborative approach, Australia aims to be the “partner of choice” for Pacific Island countries when it comes to security and cooperation.
In late 2024, Australia took a big step in strengthening its regional security ties by signing major agreements with Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Solomon Islands, and Nauru. The deals focus on boosting maritime security, improving policing, and deepening strategic cooperation. The goal is to solidify Australia’s role as the Pacific’s go-to security partner, balancing out Chinese influence while supporting stability in the region through targeted funding, infrastructure projects, and capacity-building initiatives.
Papua New Guinea
The agreement with PNG is particularly comprehensive, focusing on bolstering military interoperability to ensure coordination between the two countries’ armed forces. This growing collaboration includes tailored training programs to boost the skills of the PNG Defense Force and the creation of joint maritime operations. These efforts are aimed at tackling issues like illegal fishing, human trafficking, and other cross-border crimes that pose risks to security and economic stability.