Proliferation Security Initiative

Launched in 2003, the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is a multinational response to prevent the illegal trade of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and related materials.

Australia was a founding member of PSI, and there are now 116 endorsing states. Participation is an important component of Australia's multidimensional strategy in addressing the growing threat of WMD proliferation in the region.

All PSI states endorse the Statement of Interdiction Principles. In doing so, they commit to participate in coordinated activities to impede and stop WMD trafficking.

Australia is a member of the 21-state PSI Operational Experts Group (OEG) and regularly engages in regional exercises and outreach activities around the world.

Australia:

  • hosted PSI OEG meetings in 2003, 2004, 2019 and 2024 
  • hosted a regional OEG in 2010
  • hosted a PSI Critical Capabilities and Practices multilateral meeting in 2016
  • co-hosted a regional workshop with the United States in 2009.

Asia-Pacific Exercise Rotation

In 2013, Australia formally committed to the PSI Asia-Pacific Exercise Rotation (APER), which rotates the annual hosting of regionally focused PSI exercises with:

  • Japan
  • New Zealand
  • the Republic of Korea
  • Singapore
  • the United States. 

These exercises enhance regional counter-proliferation capability, coordination and interdiction techniques. They also send a clear signal to proliferators that their activities are being monitored and that PSI partners are prepared to take individual or collaborative action to prevent WMD proliferation. 

Australia hosted PSI Pacific Protector Exercises in 2003, 2006, 2010, 2017 and 2024. 

Exercise Pacific Protector 2024

Exercise Pacific Protector 2024 was conducted in Sydney, Australia from 24 to 27 September 2024.

More than 300 experts from 29 countries attended Exercise Pacific Protector 24. The event included:

  • academic sessions
  • a networking reception
  • a table-top exercise
  • a live exercise 
  • a port exercise demonstration
  • a tour and demonstration at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation.

For more information read the media release ‘APER Joint Statement – Exercise Pacific Protector 2024’.