Australia, Indonesia agree to sign new security pact

Darwin,  13 November –

Australia and Indonesia have agreed to sign a new security agreement that includes provisions for closer military cooperation.

The announcement came after talks between the leaders of the two countries in Sydney on Wednesday, according to AFP.

Canberra, a long-time ally of Washington, has been strengthening its armed forces as part of efforts to counter China’s growing power in the Asia-Pacific region. Jakarta, however, has maintained a stance of neutrality—remaining cautious about moving too close to Washington while showing little inclination to side with Beijing.

Speaking alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at a Royal Australian Navy base in Sydney, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto said discussions on a new bilateral “general security” agreement had been “practically finalized.”

Albanese told reporters that the deal would recognize the importance of both countries “working together as the best way to ensure peace and stability.”

The Australian leader expressed hope to visit Indonesia next year to formally sign the agreement.

He said the new accord builds on the 2024 bilateral defense agreement, which pledged closer cooperation in the competitive Asia-Pacific region and included provisions governing military activities conducted in each other’s countries.

A few months after that 2024 deal, thousands of Indonesian and Australian troops held joint exercises in East Java.

Albanese said the upcoming agreement would address “emerging threats” and commit both countries to hold regular consultations on security at the ministerial and leadership levels.

He added that it would “enable mutually beneficial security operations and provide a framework for consultation on what measures could be taken—individually or jointly—if the security of either country comes under threat.”

President Prabowo said the pact would reinforce close cooperation between the two nations in defense and security matters, remarking,

“Good neighbors help each other in difficult times.”

With tensions rising in the region amid U.S.–China rivalry, Australia hopes to strengthen its ties with Indonesia.

In August, Australia participated in joint military drills with Indonesia, the United States, and other allies.

Canberra has also been working to build closer defense relations with other Pacific neighbors to counter Beijing’s growing influence.

In September, Australia reached a new defense agreement with Papua New Guinea, committing both nations to assist each other in the event of armed attacks or “emerging threats” to their security.