Enhanced regional engagement

Defence is working with partner nations to build a region that is secure, stable, sovereign and independent. Maritime and land presence in the region is being increased to support training and activities with Pacific Island military forces and security agencies.

Defence has long-standing relationships with Pacific Island nations and an enduring contribution to the Pacific region, including through the Defence Cooperation and Pacific Maritime Security Programs. This existing cooperation and the enhanced engagement initiatives collectively seek to respond to Pacific priorities identified through ongoing dialogue with our partners in the region.

In addition to the enhanced ADF presence, Defence is more active across the Pacific, including through:

• significant infrastructure projects in Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands
• the new Joint Heads of Pacific Security event in Australia
• reinforcing alumni networks in the security sector
• expanding sport and health engagements.

Defence’s engagement program in the Southwest Pacific is tailored to the needs of Pacific partners and strengthen capacity and relationships in areas such as security operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and peacekeeping.

Defence regularly engages through mobile training teams and training exchange programs, as well as the contribution to other regional operations and exercises.