Australia and Indonesia to seal new security treaty

Strengthening ties amid regional tensions

The announcement comes as Canberra deepens its alignment with Washington, expanding its military capabilities to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Asia-Pacific.

Indonesia, however, continues to pursue a more neutral foreign policy, maintaining strategic distance from both the United States and China while promoting regional dialogue.

Leaders announce deal in Sydney

Speaking at a Royal Australian Navy base in Sydney, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto had “substantively concluded negotiations on a new bilateral treaty on our common security.”

“This treaty is a recognition from both our nations that the best way to secure peace and stability is by acting together,” Albanese told reporters.

Building on the 2024 Defence pact

The new accord builds on a 2024 defence agreement that committed both sides to deeper cooperation in the Asia-Pacific and allowed for joint military operations in each country. Albanese added that he plans to visit Indonesia next year to formally sign the treaty.

Regular consultations and joint response mechanism

Under the treaty, both governments will hold regular leader- and minister-level consultations on security issues. It will also enable “mutually beneficial security activities” and provide a framework for joint action if either nation’s security is threatened.

Commitment to regional stability

President Prabowo Subianto welcomed the agreement, calling it a symbol of “close cooperation in the defence and security field.”

“We cannot choose our neighbours,” he said. “Good neighbours will help each other in times of difficulty.