Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

ustralians have clocked up more than two million visits to Labor’s free Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, easing pressure on hospital emergency departments and keeping critical care focused where it is needed most.

New data shows that the average number of visits to Medicare Urgent Care Clinics has risen to almost 26,000 per week nationally, and this number is expected to continue to grow as more clinics open.

Nearly half of all patients who attended a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic would have used a hospital emergency department if no clinic was available.

The Albanese Labor Government has delivered 90 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics with another 47 to open by mid-next year, which in total will provide services to around two million people every year.

Once all 137 clinics are open, 4 in 5 Australians will live within a 20-minute drive of a clinic according to analysis by the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Clinics are open for extended hours, filling a vital gap when regular GP practices are often closed. Nearly 30 per cent of visits to Medicare Urgent Care Clinics have taken place on weekends, and 25 per cent of patients have attended after 5pm on weekdays.

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics offer free care with no appointment needed, for illnesses and injuries that are urgent but not life-threatening, such as gastro, mild burns, sports injuries, insect bites, and minor infections. For more information, please visit Find your nearest Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Two million visits is a testament to the value of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, which are great for patients and vital for taking pressure off hospital emergency departments.

“When you go to an Urgent Care Clinic, all you will need is your Medicare card, not your credit card.

“Labor created Medicare, and we are building Australia’s future with the largest investment in Medicare in over 40 years.”

Quotes attributable to Health Minister Mark Butler:

“The Albanese Government’s Medicare Urgent Care Clinics have changed the face of health care in Australia.

“The clinics have been a game changer for communities around the country.

“No wonder over two million Australians have accessed this health care.

“They are taking the pressure off hospitals and delivering fully bulk billed urgent care with no appointment needed.

“All patients need is their Medicare card, not their credit card.”

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

strong>RENEE COFFEY, MEMBER FOR GRIFFITH: Welcome back here to Stones Corner in the beautiful electorate of Griffith. It’s fantastic to have the Prime Minister back here. Last time we were here, I was the candidate for Griffith, and it was April, and this was a construction site, so we had our hard hats and our goggles. So it’s great to be here now that we’ve got tenants moving in with the BHC. We know how much the issue housing is in our community, and that’s why we’re getting on with the business of building homes just like this beautiful development here in Stones Corner with BHC. Here, we have 82 social and affordable homes. So it’s wonderful to be back to meet with some of the tenants, and also to welcome our Prime Minister back. So I’ll hand over to you, Prime Minister.

ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Thanks very much, Renee, and it is fantastic to be back here, and particularly a great privilege to talk to some of the tenants who are now living in these homes, with security not just on a day-to-day basis, but for the rest of their lives going forward. We were here in April, it was a building site. Today it’s a home. Making an enormous difference as part of our $43 billion Homes for Australia Plan. We met this morning, Karen, who was in private rental. She lost her home 20 years ago from a divorce, as happens. A lot of women in the retirement phase particularly face housing stress because they don’t have the same superannuation, they’ve raised families, and they find themselves in real housing stress. And Karen now says that at the time, indeed the very day that she got the call from BHC about this opportunity, her rental that she was in was being sold. John transferred from housing where he hadn’t been sleeping very well, it wasn’t appropriate for the issues that he was dealing with. It now is the security that he feels since he’s moved in just ten days ago. And Jan was couch surfing from house to house, relying upon friends to be able to have somewhere to stay at night. Jan now has a home here. She’s walking with her new friends in this wonderful facility here and her health has lifted as well, not surprisingly. Because a roof over your head, that security is vital for your health, it’s vital if you’re undertaking education, it’s vital if you want the opportunity to work either full or part time, but for your quality of life. It’s a foundation stone, literally. And here at Stones Corner this is making an enormous difference. And I was so pleased this week when we were talking about coming to the electorate of Griffith with the new member – relatively new – Renee Coffey. Coming back to her electorate to say thank you as well to the people of Griffith who’ve elected a member who’ll actually fight and support for increased public and affordable housing in Renee Coffey. To come here and say this is making a difference and it will as we roll out our increased housing programs right around the country. And just of course, just days after, on the 1st of October, we began the Five Per Cent Deposit Scheme as well – helping first home owners into home ownership, already seeing a massive level of support. So whether it is increased home ownership, increased private rentals, affordable and social housing such as what we have here through the Brisbane Housing Corporation. This is an important program and rolling out is absolutely critical. I want to acknowledge that there’s also state government funding as part of this project as well, an example of governments working together to make a difference, including here in Brisbane. I also want to take the opportunity to announce that the Federal Government will invest $5 million towards the Boggo Road Precinct Renewable Project. Boggo Road of course has been a historic jail site. What is happening there is being turned into an educational and technology precinct creating jobs and opportunities here in Brisbane. And this is a part of our city’s policy, our urban renewal support, this $5 million program and a part of just revitalising our cities and making a difference here in Brisbane. So, congratulations belatedly in person here on site to Renee Coffey. I came to the electorate of Griffith on multiple occasions. Whether it was over the Urgent Care Clinics which have been, were built here and opened, whether it be housing projects. In Renee Coffey this community has a champion who will stand up for the interests of people who need a local member who will advocate for them going forward. Happy to take some questions.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, the Norman Lake case has been in court this week, and there’s been some alarming evidence about his actions towards you. What is your Government planning to do to decrease these heightened levels of threats?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, one of the things we need to do is to turn down the temperature on debate. I’ve said that media have a role in that as well. You know obviously the issue is before the court so I’m not going to make any comments on the specifics, but you wouldn’t be surprised that I’m very concerned by the revelations which are out there publicly. And, you know, we see events overseas where there is violence towards elected officials, or violence towards anyone is a bad thing to occur. And we just need to turn down the temperature, have respect for people, have respect for the capacity of us to have debates and discourse and have difference whilst having respect for each other. And that’s something that I tried to bring to political discourse in this country. The security issues that I face are far more acute than ten years ago, five years ago, certainly a lot more acute than when I was first elected. And I just say that the role of social media, people being able to say things that they’d never say to your face is something I’ve spoken about regularly. And there’s no place for violence. There’s no place for violent discourse either, because we can’t normalise these sort of threats being made and think that that is business as usual, because what we know is that does lead to real tragedy. And we’ve seen as well – I had to attend the funeral of police officers here in Brisbane with the so-called sovereign citizens issue, here, Victoria, the Cook Government in WA have taken some really strong actions as well in taking weapons off people who don’t acknowledge the rule of law in this country. And I just say that, you know, I’ve had to adjust some of my activity. One of the great things about this country is that I could go to a shopping centre in Sunnybank during the election campaign. I can do walkthroughs right throughout South East Queensland and engage with people. We don’t want to lose that. I don’t want to lose that as Prime Minister. I don’t want to be told I can’t engage in a normal way with people and just meet people at random without preparation. I think that’s a good thing. I quite like being able to have a beer even at The Caxton Hotel, wearing a Blues scarf on the way to a State of Origin game. That’s a good thing about this country. Let’s not lose it.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, on superannuation, your office or government sought a briefing from Treasury on the plan to tax unrealised capital gains on superannuation accounts after the policy received backlash from stakeholders, we were told. When did you get a sense there was a backlash towards this policy and are you considering refining it?

PRIME MINISTER: We receive briefings on policy all the time, as you expect the Prime Minister’s office to do. That’s what we do. There’s nothing unusual about that. That’s what occurs right across the full suite of policy issues.

JOURNALIST: Are you considering making changes?

PRIME MINISTER: Our policy is as it stands.

JOURNALIST: Did you step in over Jim Chalmers’ head to suggest –

PRIME MINISTER: No, there are no policy changes that we have not made. Our policy stands. There’s nothing unusual about the full suite – ask me about any policy and I’ll tell you I’ve had a briefing, including housing, including everything else.

JOURNALIST: One of the comments was that there was modelling was done as a result of this briefing. Had there not been modelling before the initial decision to bring in this tax, double the tax?

PRIME MINISTER: I’m not sure what you’re asking.

JOURNALIST: Was there modelling before the initial decision to double the capital gains on otherwise?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, that’s not actually what the policy is, by the way. The policy is not as you define it. It’s a complex policy. And as normally occurs, there’s the normal policy processes by Treasury.

JOURNALIST: Was there modelling done on it?

PRIME MINISTER: There are the normal policy processes that Cabinet deal with.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, it’s been almost three years, when are you hoping those changes will pass?

PRIME MINISTER: Well I hope – the Senate, like they blocked housing policy, the Senate blocked a whole range of policies between the Greens and the Coalition. We hope that the Senate supports government policy whenever we put it up, including on this area.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, the US is committing 200 troops to Israel to help monitor the ceasefire. Has there been a request for Australian troops, and would you be open to sending them?

PRIME MINISTER: Look, we’ll continue to work with allies on these issues. I just want to say that I very much welcome this breakthrough. We have called for some time for a ceasefire, for the release of hostages, for aid to be granted. That needs to happen. And we also need to talk about the day after, which requires a two state solution. Australia has worked constructively with people. I think President Trump deserves congratulations for the leadership that the United States has shown. We’ve always said that this will require US leadership and that is what we have seen here. But it’s a very welcome advance.

JOURNALIST: Has Australia been asked to send troops?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, we’ll work with – we’ll continue to work with our allies and continue to work constructively as we have done the whole way through.

JOURNALIST: The State Energy Minister is releasing his energy plan today, [inaudible]?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, I haven’t seen the plan obviously, it hasn’t been released. So, look, we’ll continue to engage constructively. I have a good relationship with state and territory governments. I had a good chat with Premier Crisafulli, had a chat with him last night, had an engagement with him at the footy on Sunday. I congratulate the Brisbane Broncos. I particularly congratulate my friend Adam Reynolds and of course Madge. I rang Madge last week and wished him luck. I got to know him when he was coach of my team – a South Sydney loyalist. But it was good to see a fantastic reward for what was an outstanding season by the Broncos in his first season as coach here. But it was a fantastic game and the Storm deserved big congrats as well. I thought both teams performed outstandingly, and it was terrific to talk with David Crisafulli there.

JOURNALIST: What we do know about the energy policy is that the Miles-Palaszczuk Government’s plans to retire the fleet of coal fired power stations in 32-35 is now off the agenda, is going to be pushed back to at least 45, 2045. What’s your response to that?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, I’ll wait and see a plan before I comment on it, with respect. My government’s orderly, we don’t comment on speculation. What we know is that 24 out of 28 of the coal fired power stations around Australia announced their closure under the former Coalition Government. There was no plan to fill that supply gap and it’s something that my Government has had to deal with. We’re dealing with it constructively moving forward and we know that the cheapest form of new energy is of course renewables.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, do you think Donald Trump deserves a Nobel Peace Prize?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, what I’d say is that Donald Trump certainly deserves enormous congratulations for the work that he has done. We want to see US leadership in the world and what we have seen is that on this occasion.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, do you think it’s appropriate that you are the President of the Australian Parliament Sports Club?

PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, as Prime Minister it comes with the gig. A whole lot of things come with the gig.

JOURNALIST: Just as a follow up, Senator David Pocock has questioned whether you should be the President, given that the club is on the Federal Lobbyist Register.

PRIME MINISTER: Well, I think that’s David Pocock being David Pocock, getting himself in a story. You know, this is a voluntary organisation that raises money for charity.

JOURNALIST: Sponsored by gambling – you don’t have any issue with that?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, if you think I’m spending my day-to-day time – the amount of time I have spent on the Australian Parliament Sports Club this year is zero. I have participated in zero events in terms of sports, just because I’m a bit busy. But I tell you what, things like playing football as they do with the people who sell the Big Issue and homeless people, is a good thing. A bit of fun playing State of Origin that David Pocock has participated in. You know, last time I did participate, David Pocock was participating as well. So, that’s a question for Mr. Pocock.

JOURNALIST: The RBA Governor has blamed higher house prices on a lack of supply, saying it’s not the monetary policy’s responsibility. Does that mean the government hasn’t done enough to date to get enough housing supply?

PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, yeah. Over decades. Housing supply hasn’t just happened. Housing supply shortfalls are a result of neglect by governments. The former government didn’t bother to have a Housing Minister for half the time that they were in office. They built just over 300 houses the entire time that they were there, in terms of social housing. They neglected areas like social and affordable housing. They opposed then, having done that for a decade, they then opposed the Housing Australia Future Fund. They opposed the Build to Rent incentives. They opposed all of the measures that we tried to get through the Parliament for a long period of time, including with the member for Griffith being one of the chief blockers along with the Coalition, Michael Sukkar. Michael Sukkar and the former member here, both are no longer in the Parliament, and I think one of the reasons why they’re no longer in the Parliament is because they blocked housing supply. And people rejected that. So, of course this is the issue that we have to deal with. There are other issues as well, but housing supply is front and centre, and my Government has said that from the very beginning.

JOURNALIST: Do you agree with the concept that a Greater Brisbane is going to maximise our opportunities globally for the 2032 Games?

PRIME MINISTER: I’m not sure how you define – I’m not sure the context of the question, to be frank.

JOURNALIST: Stakeholders are basically saying that we need to incorporate all of Southeast Queensland as a Greater Brisbane and brand it that way for the world stage, for 2032.

PRIME MINISTER: Look, that’s above my pay grade. I think that communities, if you’re suggesting that people on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, I assume – is that what you’re – that’s a matter for local communities to determine. But there are communities that are distinct. I’ve got cousins on the Sunshine Coast, for example. And they’re very proud Sunshine Coast residents. So, I think that there are people in different areas – you know, people in Ipswich, I think, tell you they live in Ipswich, so, don’t say they live in Brisbane. And so, I think that’s a matter for local communities to determine. Certainly not a matter for the national government to interfere with.

JOURNALIST: Back on superannuation. The Senate was told by Treasury officials that stakeholders have raised concerns about the initiative. Was it your government? Was it your office? Was it Treasury? And did you have concerns about –

PRIME MINISTER: Well, the Senate have given statements about policy development in the normal way. That’s nothing unusual. Nothing unusual.

JOURNALIST: They said concerns were raised with Treasury.

PRIME MINISTER: Well, you know, you’re raising concerns now at a press conference. [INTERJECTIONS] People will raise policy issues from time to time. It’s called public discourse in this great democracy of ours, and –

JOURNALIST: Well, can you tell us what those concerns are, as part of this public discourse?

PRIME MINISTER: It’s not my job, it’s your job, so I’m not going to do your job for you. You know, policy debates happen normally, transparently. Yes, people get briefings. That’s how policy develops. And my Government makes no apologies for the fact that we’re engaged with people. That’s what we do. My Government’s an inclusive government and that’s why we develop policies like our Homes for Australia plan. That’s why we develop policies across the board.

JOURNALIST: Question on the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Given that the NACC Chief Commissioner, Paul Brereton, has advised the Defence Force 11 times – so, the NACC itself was unaware he continued that work. How can the public have confidence in the independence of the Anti-Corruption Commission when it was investigating Defence matters whilst its head simultaneously provided confidential advice to Defence?

PRIME MINISTER: My Government followed a range of governments that promised to have a National Anti-Corruption Commission. Former governments did nothing about it. What my Government has done is tick off commitments that we’ve made, including the creation of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, which is independent of government and is able to do its activity at arm’s length from government without day-to-day commentary from government about its activities. That’s a good thing. What we’ve done since the election is tick off one by one the policies that we took to the election, including, this week, the introduction of legislation to freeze the beer excise for two years, making a difference as part of cost-of-living. [INTERJECTIONS] We’ve had the legislation, we’ve had the – I’ve answered your question. I’ve answered your question, which is that you won’t get a running commentary about the activity of an independent body, because that’s the whole point of having an independent body [INTERJECTIONS] without political interference. So, what my Government has done is to deliver right here, concrete – we’re standing on it, what my Government has been able to deliver. But we delivered the legislation on cheaper medicines. Just yesterday I met with a family who was still grieving Priya, who they lost at such a very young age. And changing the parental leave laws to make sure that that is acknowledged in an appropriate way is something again that I’m really proud of. We go through, we’re methodical, we’re orderly, we say what we will do and then we do what we’ve said.

Thanks very much.

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

ustralia welcomes President Trump’s announcement that Israel and Hamas have signed off the first phase of the plan to bring peace to Gaza.

After more than two years of conflict, hostages held and a devastating loss of civilian life, this is a much needed step towards peace.

Australia has consistently been part of international calls for a ceasefire, return of the hostages, and the unimpeded flow of aid to Gaza.

We urge all parties to respect the terms of the plan.

We thank President Trump for his diplomatic efforts and acknowledge the important role of Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye in delivering this agreement.

Australia strongly supports the plan’s commitment to denying Hamas any role in the future governance of Gaza. 

There is a very long road to recovery in Gaza, securing long term peace and building the Palestinian state. 

Together with our partners, Australia will continue to do what we can to contribute to a just and enduring two-state solution.

 

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

rime Minister Anthony Albanese will travel to the United States from 19 to 21 October for an official visit hosted by President Donald J. Trump in Washington DC.

Australia and the United States are the strongest of allies and closest of friends. Our unique relationship is underpinned by a shared vision for peace and security, close economic connections and deep personal ties between our two nations.

The visit will be an opportunity to deepen these ties, including on trade and investment, defence cooperation and AUKUS, as well as the shared goal of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Minister for Resources and Minister for Northern Australia, Madeleine King, and Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Tim Ayres will join elements of the Prime Minister’s program.

The visit will be Prime Minister Albanese’s seventh to the United States as Prime Minister.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles will be Acting Prime Minister from Prime Minister Albanese’s departure through 7pm (AEST) on Tuesday, 21 October.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong will be Acting Prime Minister from 7pm (AEST) on Tuesday, 21 October through Prime Minister Albanese’s return.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“Australia and the United States have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in every major conflict for over a century.

“I look forward to a positive and constructive meeting with President Trump at the White House.

“Our meeting is an important opportunity to consolidate and strengthen the Australia-United States relationship.”

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

rime Minister Anthony Albanese and President of the United States Donald J. Trump today signed a landmark bilateral framework on critical minerals and rare earths at the White House in Washington DC. This will see an accelerated pipeline of priority projects delivered by and for the two nations.

The United States–Australia Framework for Securing of Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths will deliver a US/Australia secured supply chain for critical minerals and rare earths, required for defence and other advanced technologies. This represents a significant new chapter in the over 70 years of our formal Alliance.

Also announced today, to complement the Framework, the US and Australia will take measures to each provide at least USD$1 billion in investments towards an USD$8.5 billion pipeline of priority critical minerals projects in Australia and the United States over the next six months.

Two of those priority projects have financial commitments being announced today by the Australian Government. 

The first project is the Alcoa-Sojitz Gallium Recovery Project in Wagerup, Western Australia. 

Australia is announcing today up to USD$200 million in concessional equity finance for the project, which includes a right of offtake for the Australian Government. The United States Government is also making an equity investment with a right of offtake.

This project will provide up to 10 per cent of total global gallium supply. Gallium is an essential input for defence and semiconductor manufacturing. This is a trilateral project with Japan, the United States and Australia, which will strengthen our collective economic security. Japan has already provided 50 percent of the project costs to date.

The second project is the Arafura Nolans project in the Northern Territory. 

Australia is announcing today a USD$100 million equity investment in the project. Once operational, this project will produce 5 per cent of global rare earths – essential for energy security and defence.

The historic framework signed today will assist both countries in achieving resilience and security of critical minerals and rare earths supply chains, including mining, separation, and processing, through use of economic policy tools and coordinated investment.

A US-Australia Critical Minerals Supply Security Response Group will be established under the leadership of the US Secretary of Energy and the Australian Minister for Resources to identify priority minerals and supply vulnerabilities and to develop a coordinated plan to accelerate delivery of processed minerals under this Framework.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“There are no closer friends and allies than the United States of America and Australia.

“President Trump and I agreed today we will work very hard together in both our nations’ interests.

“We’ve agreed today Australia and America are going to make more things together with our historic framework on critical minerals.

“Australia is home to much of the periodic table of critical minerals and rare earth metals that are vital for defence and other advanced technologies.

“Cooperation on critical minerals and rare earth supply chains is testament to the trusted partnership between Australia and the United States as strategic defence allies.

“I look forward to continuing to work with President Trump to strengthen our partnership and support American and Australian workers, businesses and investors.”

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

am pleased to announce that the Governor-General has agreed to the appointment of Ms Kathy Klugman as the next Director-General of National Intelligence, the head of the Office of National Intelligence.

Ms Klugman will take up her appointment when the current Director-General, Mr Andrew Shearer completes his term of appointment.

Ms Klugman is the first woman to lead the Office of National Intelligence or its predecessor the Office of National Assessments.

Ms Klugman has had a distinguished career in the Australian Public Service holding senior positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. She has had a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific region and served as High Commissioner to Sri Lanka.

As a Deputy Secretary at DFAT, she led the Department’s Development and Multilateral Group and oversaw Australia’s Centre for Regional Health Security and chaired the Department’s Aid Governance Board.

Before that, Ms Klugman led the Pacific Division of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and oversaw the establishment of the expanded Office of the Pacific in DFAT, charged with advancing Australia’s Pacific Step Up.  She held senior positions covering policy and strategy for Southeast Asia and South Asia, including as Australia’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan. She led the International Division of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Ms Klugman was most recently Principal Adviser to the Prime Minister, International, a position she has held since 2022.

I would like to thank Mr Shearer for his significant contribution as Director General since 2020. I am pleased that he agreed to continue to serve the Australian people in a new capacity.

Source: Prime Minister of Australia

or the fourth year in a row, the Albanese Government is backing Western Australia’s most iconic fundraising event – committing $6 million to the Channel 7 Telethon Trust to help build a brighter, healthier future for children and babies across the state.

Funds raised through Telethon go directly towards medical research, essential health services, and life-changing programs that support sick, disadvantaged and vulnerable children and their families.

Over its 58-year history, Telethon has raised more than $688 million to give kids the care, treatment and opportunities they deserve.

The 26-hour televised appeal now supports 161 children’s charities and organisations, transforming lives through the power of generosity.

The Government’s contributions have already supported dozens of groundbreaking research projects into childhood cancer, mental health and gut health, as well as the purchase of vital medical equipment for hospitals and health services.

This continued investment ensures children can access the best possible care today and for generations to come.

Quotes attributable to Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles

“The Telethon is a wonderful West Australian tradition that brings communities together for an extraordinary cause.

“Our government is proud to once again support this important initiative, which continues to improve health outcomes for children with life-threatening illnesses and complex medical conditions.

“Every year, we’re inspired by the big-heartedness of Australians who dig deep to support Telethon.

“Every donation, big or small, helps change a young life for the better.”

Source: Australia’s climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record

Sarah Abo, Host: Well, more now on the Prime Minister’s face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump in the White House this morning. Nine months in the making. Foreign Minister Penny Wong joins us live now from Canberra. Senator, good morning to you. Good to see you. The meeting, it’s finally happened. They had a bit to get through. Ticked a lot of boxes. Nothing for the PM to fear after all.

Foreign Minister, Penny Wong: Good morning, good to be with you. And look, what a great success. The meeting was a clear success. We had the President talking about how much he loves Australia; the President backing in AUKUS and the delivery of the submarines; and of course an $8.5 billion US dollar critical minerals deal signed between the President and the Prime Minister. So, great success for the country and confirms the approach the government’s taken.

Abo: Success, but also relief comes to mind, doesn’t it Senator? I mean let’s, let’s break that down a bit. You’ve touched on a few things there. The critical minerals deal, obviously great to get that signed off on. It is, of course, off the back of the US trade war with China. That void was always going to be filled. But does that in turn risk our relationship with China? I mean, they won’t like this.

Foreign Minister: We act in our national interest and it’s in our national interest to make sure we work with the United States to ensure security of supply of critical minerals. These are so important for the 21st century economy. They’re important for our defence industries, and they’re important for energy security. So, it is a good thing to work with our ally and partner to assure the supply of critical minerals.

Abo: At the expense of our relationship with China?

Foreign Minister: Well, we are assuring the supply of critical minerals for our economies and a contribution to the US economy and to global supply – that’s a good thing.

Abo: All right, nothing to say here then.

Foreign Minister: I think it’s a good thing that we’re working with the US on this, and we know that critical minerals are critical in name and in actuality for the 21st century economy. So, securing supply is a good thing.

Abo: All right. We also seem to have our strongest commitment yet from the President that the AUKUS deal is going ahead. And that one is a big relief considering how many billions we’re spending on this and how many years we’re going to wait to receive them.

Foreign Minister: Look, the AUKUS submarine capability is all About ensuring Australia has a capability where we can contribute to the peace in the Indo-Pacific. It’s About deterrence; it’s About making sure that we can contribute to the stability and peace of our region. So, that is a good thing. And yes, you’re right, it was great to hear the President backing in the deal and saying that we would receive the submarines.

Abo: Alright, well now, I know you’ve seen this, but just in case you haven’t, here it is again.

**Clip plays**

Abo: Penny. That is as awkward as it gets. I mean he basically told Kevin Rudd he would probably never like him. Does that make his position, Kevin Rudd as ambassador to the US, a bit untenable?

Foreign Minister: Look, I think anyone looking at that knows that was tongue-in-cheek. We heard the laughter. We know that we had a very successful meeting and full credit to Kevin. Ambassador Rudd has worked so hard on firstly getting this agreement. He’s worked so hard on assuring AUKUS and the delivery of the submarines in our national interest. And he’s worked so hard on the critical minerals deal. That’s been something he’s really worked through the administration. So, the success of this meeting is in great part due to the work that Kevin Rudd has been doing in the United States.

Abo: How can we have an ambassador though that the President doesn’t like?

Foreign Minister: Look, you know, I just don’t think what you’re saying is borne out by what we have.

Abo: He said it. The US President said it.

Foreign Minister: Hang on, Sarah. We had a meeting which was a clear success. We had a meeting where our national interest was affirmed. We had a meeting where the President of the United States talked about how much he loves Australia. We had a meeting where the President of the United States backs in AUKUS and the submarines, and we signed an excellent critical minerals deal.

Abo: Are you saying the US President’s full of hot air then?

Foreign Minister: No, I’m saying, I’m saying that the meeting was a success.

Abo: Ok, let’s move on. That dangerously close. This is very serious of course. That dangerously close call with Chinese fighter jet. Senator, how is that acceptable? I mean they released flares right next to an RAAF plane with our pilots on board. This is more than just sending a message. It’s a clear indication the Chinese have no regard for international protocol and no respect for Australia.

Foreign Minister: This action was unsafe and unprofessional. We’ve made that clear publicly, and we’ve made that clear through representations. The safety of our personnel is our first priority, and we have been very clear About our view on this.

Abo: You need more than words, don’t you, though, Senator?

Foreign Minister: Well, China has been clear and consistent in its intent to project power into the region. We have been clear, along with our partners, that we will continue to assert our rights under international law. Our right of overflight, our right of freedom of navigation. We will continue to do that along with our partners in the region. That is in our national interests.

Abo: So, no ramifications?

Foreign Minister: Well, what we would say to China is it’s not only unsafe and unprofessional, but it is highly risky, and we will not step back from asserting our rights in international waters and in international airspace.

Abo: Can China be trusted?

Foreign Minister: Well, I’ve been asked that before, I think by Karl, and I said, I trust China to act in its interests. I trust our country to act in our interests. And that is what the government is doing.

Abo: And the two are not aligned, it would seem. Penidor. Penidor? Senator Penny Wong.

Foreign Minister: That’s new. That’s like a compound noun, isn’t it?

Abo: Look, you can call me Sabo or…whatever just to make up for it. Thanks for joining us this morning.

Foreign Minister: Have a good day.

Karl Stefanovic, Host: It won’t surprise the Senator that I don’t know what a compound noun is.

Source: Australia’s climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record

Richard Marles, Acting Prime Minister: Well welcome everyone today to the 31st Australia-PNG Ministerial Forum. It is an absolute pleasure on behalf of Pat, Penny and I to be able to welcome to Canberra this morning the Deputy Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea John Rosso, the Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, and the Defense Minister Billy Joseph. Today is a very significant meeting, because it comes two weeks to the day after our two countries signed an Alliance. Today will be the first Ministerial Forum of new allied partners. And with that in mind, the focus of today’s Ministerial Forum is very much around operationalising the Alliance which we have just formed. Today we will be discussing the various elements about how we can move our defence forces more closely together. We will be establishing a taskforce around the recruitment of Papua New Guinean citizens directly into the Australian Defence Force. That taskforce will have its first meeting this year, and part of that will see PNG permanent residents in Australia – so who have Australian permanent residency – be able to join the Australian Defence Force from the 1st of January next year. Papua New Guineans with permanent residency in Australia will be able to join the Australian Defence Force from the 1st of January next year. We will be discussing ways in which we can support each other with infrastructure, and today we are announcing a $7.7 million commitment to establish a 200 bed facility at Goldie River Barracks in PNG. This will enable an additional 200 soldiers to be trained each and every year into the PNG Defence Force. We’ll also be announcing a $2.2 million commitment to design barracks in Hela, for the 3rd Brigade of the PNG Army, and again, a very important infrastructure commitment. A key conversation that we’ve been having for some time now between our two defence forces is how we can work to develop PNG’s air wing, and there has been a number of developments that we’ve done there, which have included the Spartan aircraft from Australia rotating through PNG. Currently we do some training of PNG air crew but today, we’re also announcing that, beginning next year, we will be training six PNG pilots each year to build that capacity. And in addition to pilots, we will also be providing training to engineers and other air crew. Today, we’re announcing as well that we will be providing 3,500 rifles to the PNG Defence Force over the course of the next four years and when we include the work will be doing in terms of armouries and the like, that’s a $35 million commitment. So, all of these are important steps forward in terms of operationalising the Alliance that we have. And to be clear, this builds on a deeply integrated defence relationship that we’ve built up over the 50 years since PNG became independent. The first time that us as a group met after we took office in May of 2022 was in February of 2023 and since then, we really feel that we have taken the relationship to the next level. We’re very excited about momentum that exists within the relationship, and we’re very excited about what we’ll be able to do today to take that forward. And with that, I will hand over to the chairs of today’s Ministerial Forum, which is Penny and Justin.

Penny Wong, Foreign Minister: Thank you very much, Richard. Well, can I first extend my personal welcome to Deputy Prime Minister, to Minister Tkatchenko, Minister Joseph, and to the entire Papua New Guinean delegation for this, the 31st meeting of the Australia-PNG Ministerial Forum. We do meet at a historic time. Fifty years ago, Gough Whitlam sat next to Sir Michael Somare at the ceremony for Papua New Guinea’s independence in Port Moresby. And just last month, we saw Prime Minister Albanese stand with Prime Minister Marape to celebrate 50 years of that independence. And we have a Pukpuk treaty – an alliance partnership which is second to none. So, this is the first forum where we meet as alliance partners. And what I wanted to underscore is what that means. As Prime Minister Marape described it, he talked about this being one big fence, securing two houses. And we bring that unprecedented level of strategic trust to every aspect of our relationship. So, it is operationalising the alliance in the ways that the Acting Prime Minister has described. But it is also about bringing that level of strategic trust and closeness to development, to economic and infrastructure partnerships, to education partnerships, to the way in which we look at the NRL, to the way in which we look at telecommunications. All aspects of our relationship are defined now and imbued with that character of the alliance, a unique level of strategic trust. Today, we take important further steps in relation to the alliance. And I met with Justin for breakfast this morning, and we talked about the fact that this group of Ministers, on both sides, we are stewards of this alliance. And what we want to ensure is that over the period we are in these roles, we do elevate the relationship, across the board to reflect what the alliance means. I’m sure there will be many things we discuss today, but I can announce a couple of things in addition to what Richard has gone through. I’m pleased to announce a new education and skills package worth over $150 million Australian dollars to support Papua New Guinea’s productivity, economic growth and human development. This delivers on our commitment to increase education spending to $100 million per year under our Development Partnership Plan. I’m also pleased to announce a $25 million humanitarian and disaster relief package to build capacity within PNG’s disaster monitoring and response, which Minister Conroy can speak to in more detail. I’m very pleased to have the opportunity, with my friend and brother, Justin Tkatchenko, to chair the forum today. It’s certainly one of the many great honours of being Australia’s Foreign Minister, and I look forward to the discussions and I thank Papua New Guinea Ministers for coming to Australia for this forum. Thank you, Richard.

Justin Tkatchenko, PNG Foreign Minister: Thank you. It is an honour for our delegation to be here for this fourth, under our government, fourth Ministerial Forum that has been co-chaired and now chaired as well by Honourable Penny Wong. It’s no mistake why we’re here. We have now taken our relationship with Australia to the next level, especially as an alliance together. And with that, as Minister Penny Wong said, wanpela banis, tupela haus, different backyards. So, we are together in more ways than one. And today, we will discuss and come to conclusions some outstanding issues from visas to implementation of our current programs, projects that have been going on for many years, through defence, education, health, technology, communications and of course, defence. And we look forward to those outcomes. We are there in partnership, we’re working together as one for the benefit of both countries now and into the future. So, the Ministerial Forum will put a lot of emphasis on implementation, getting the job done, making things happen and implementing what we set out to achieve.

Pat Conroy, Minister for Pacific Island Affairs and Defence Industry: Thank you Mr. Tkatchenko, and to pick up where the Foreign Minister left off. Our peace and stability is entwined. Only four kilometres separates the two nations. You could swim there if you weren’t worried about crocodiles, which you should be. And delivering on the spirit of the treaty is something that both sides are committed to. So as Foreign Minister Wong talked about the $25 million investment in the humanitarian disaster relief packages that includes additional new humanitarian warehouses for PNG to deal with natural disasters. It involves a new twinning partnership between Australia’s National Emergency Management Agency and the PNG National Disaster Centre to enhance capacity building. But peace and stability goes beyond responding to natural disasters. Fulfilling the concrete commitments around the treaty also involve equipping the PNG Defence Force. So, in addition to what the Acting Prime Minister has outlined, we will be providing 4,500 uniforms to the PNG Defence Force. Importantly, these uniforms will be to exactly the same standards as the ADF’s uniforms. Exactly the same qualities, in terms of signature management and quality. The only difference will be that they will be manufactured with a PNG Defence pattern on them. But security goes beyond physical security, it goes to economic security. And that’s why the economic relationship is so important, and that will be discussed today as well. Australia is the largest trade and investment partner for PNG and it’s a position that we’re privileged to have. And a key part of that economic partnership is support for the PNG team to enter the National Rugby League, to enter the premier competition of the greatest game of all. And I welcome, on behalf of the Australian Government – I had to get that in there – And I welcome, on behalf of the Australian Government, the naming of the new PNG team as the Chiefs. I think it’s a superb name and it’s a result of a great competition run by Prime Minister Marape and I can’t wait to see them getting on the field in 2028, and they’ll soon dominate the competition. So, thank you very much and I’ll hand over to Defence Minister Joseph.

Dr Billy Joseph, PNG Minister For Defense: I was here when the Treaty was signed, and Prime Minister Albanese said from the newest of allies; PNG and Australia, closest neighbours, friends and to the newest allies. I would like to take this time to really appreciate the two teams from both PNG and Australia who have worked very hard, in less than 12 months, for the negotiation for the PNG-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty. Both parliaments, there’s a process that’s going through to have it ratified, but the relationship that we have built over time, from the days when we had a war in 1942 up to now, PNG and Australia have grown from strength to strength. The relationship has been really good. From the PNG side, I’ve been very happy with the leadership. And we look forward to the implementation of the Defence Treaty.

John Rosso, PNG Deputy Prime Minister: Morning everyone. First of all, I acknowledge Acting Prime Minister Marles, Pat Conroy, and Penny Wong; all good friends and good to see you guys again here on our annual Ministerial Forum between both countries. It’s the 31st Ministerial Forum and I think the third one I’ve been involved in since 2023 and it’s moved from step to step. It’s a normal annual meeting that we’re here for, the Ministerial Forum. But whilst we concentrate on the Treaty, I think this is more than just the Treaty. It’s the relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea that’s been ongoing for 50 years, Australia has been working side by side with us. Not only the treaty, we’re also looking at Australian assistance that helped us with our infrastructure, our internal security and a range and host of other things. So whilst we look at the Treaty, I think it’s just a relationship that’s being strengthened, and the Treaty was inevitable. It just becomes another part of the relationship that is between both countries. We both sit as neighbours, we sit conjoined together. We also have a strong relationship from the past, and the Treaty is another step in that relationship strengthening between both countries. So I’m quite satisfied with it. I look forward to the various announcements – I say thank you to that. And the NRL, as Pat said, NRL is a great achievement. It will make and strengthen the relationships between both countries; tourism going to Papua New Guinea and vice versa coming to Australia. Rugby teams, sports, is the underlying sense of both countries. We love our rugby league, similar to Australians and I think it will strengthen the people to people relationships between both countries. And I look forward to further discussions on all these subjects between both countries at this Ministerial Forum.

Journalist: If I could ask both DPMs, annually Australia has been loaning Papua New Guinea something like 1.5 billion Kina as budget support. It’s gone on for the past five years, I believe. Are we looking at a sixth loan this year for your budget? And is that sort of becoming, now sort of institutionalised in the relationship as a regular thing? And if I could ask Dr Joseph; guns, uniforms, planes potentially for the PNG Defence Force. Could you tell us what sort of aircraft you’d like? And you’ve had some issues paying for your catering recently for your troops, is that another of the costs that you’d like Australia to contribute to?

Marles: Well perhaps to start with, on budget support. I mean, actually, in the history of our two countries, since independence, there’s been various points along the way where there has been budget support provided by the Australian Government to PNG, as you’re aware. We will talk about this in the context of the Ministerial Forum that we have later this afternoon. We’re not making an announcement now in respect of that. But we want to be the best partner we can be to PNG, and however that is most practically done is how we will do it. And we will talk about all of the ways in which that can be done, including this, in this afternoon’s meeting.

Joseph: Thank you. As allies, PNG wants to be an important partner to Australia and building defence capability is something that we really wanted, and that’s in article five of the Defence Treaty. And so whatever shape or form it may be, as long as it builds defence capability, including air capability, like you said, we would appreciate and will work together with our Australian counterparts, especially DPM Marles to work on that and our two teams, defence teams, have been working very closely on what would be the choice, or the capability in detail. Whether that be aviation, in the naval, well as in the army, including the guns that you’ve mentioned. We will work on that as we go through.

Journalist: Does costs like the catering (inaudible)–

Joseph: With the catering, I think that has been part of our defence budget. We’ve managed that from time to time, and that’s not something that we would be expecting Australia or somebody else to pay for us. It’s part of our budget and we do that every year.

Rosso: If I may add on, with air capability and stuff on that. You should look further at that; it’s more to do with the training, enhancing capability and training. And the good thing that happens is that previously, after 1925 we had a capable air squadron and now we’re looking at the relationship, building up the air squadron again. It’s to enhance, in a rural capacity; delivery, agriculture, produce, that sort of infrastructure building and training pilots that further on, they move on to our national airline, and it helps enhance our national airline by providing good training for pilots. So that is the basis of some of these things of the development aspects we look forward to; engineers, pilots and that sort of thing, being trained through the military and later on moving towards our national airlines and enhancing the civilian capacity of our national airline.

Journalist: Thanks, Deputy Prime Minister. Can I ask the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister Joseph as well, obviously, both defence forces have stated they wish to grow quite substantially. Prime Minister Marape has said that up to 10,000 PNG citizens will be able to join the ADF over time. Can I ask, how are both defence forces going to grow, and how does Australia ensure, as part of this arrangement, that it simply doesn’t poach the qualified people the PNGDF needs in order to grow? How can both forces grow simultaneously? And while I’ve got to call if I could ask DPM Rosso, you were in China recently, I believe sir. I gather the Pukpuk Treaty was one of the things that was discussed. China’s embassy before the signing was quite critical of the Treaty, or at least raised questions and reservations. Did the Chinese side raise any reservations with you during your visit, and have they expressed any concerns to you?

Marles: Perhaps, to start with the issue of recruitment, we see recruitment of public Papua New Guineans into the Australian Defence Force as a real opportunity, actually, for the ADF. I know that this is a matter that I’ve discussed with both John and with Billy, and from the PNG side, there seems to be a sense that there’s a real opportunity here in terms of providing opportunities for the younger generation in PNG. But you ask a really good question, and as we started talking about making sure that this is a program that works for both PNG and Australia, and in terms of PNGs capability – military capability as well, is really critical. As we have discussed this, at the heart of the answer to that is training. This will work if we are investing in the training of people before they enter the defence forces, and obviously all the training that comes once you do enter the defence forces. So central to our thinking about how we make this work is actually investing in training capabilities in PNG, because we’re talking about recruiting directly from PNG to enable people to be in a place of readiness to join the Australian Defence Force. And that sort of training also provides opportunities to ready people to join the PNG Defence Force. And how we execute that, and we’ve obviously got quite a few ideas about how to execute that, that is very much the subject of the work of the taskforce that we’re announcing the establishment of today and as I say, they will have their first meeting this year. We share that the ambitions that Prime Minister Marape has articulated. I mean, it will take time to get there, but we actually do think that in time and at scale that’s what this program can do for the ADF. But at the heart of the answer to your question, which is a really good one, is making sure that we build that pre‑enrolment training capability in PNG.

Rosso: As you pointed out, the training and enhancement, we should look at a different picture also. While there’s 10,000 Papua New Guineans going to be serving the Australian forces, our side whilst we do that, it also enhances training, one, it also – you look at the Fiji and UK sort of relationship, the money that’s remitted back to the country of hosts, and that helps build up the country’s development capacity. It also enhances– it’s not just infantrymen, we’re training medics, we’re training signal people, we’re training other people in different aspects. And that comes back to boost our country and build up the capacity of our people to help Papua New Guinea move further forward. So it’s a win, win on both sides. It enhances capability, enhances training, gives our young people jobs and brings back (inaudible) and other things like that, back into the nation, helping building capacity back home in Papua New Guinea. You pointed out with the China thing, it’s not really an issue. Yes, we did discuss it. They raised it. But clearly our plan, and they respect our sovereignty, China has always been a big partner of ours, too, similar to Australia. They’ve been a great partner. We have a relationship with them in trade, investment, and that has grown and strengthened from strength to strength, so doesn’t in any way impeach on our sovereignty and on additions that we’ve made with the Treaty with Australia. And the Treaty with Australia we will explain the relationship that we had with Australia, the traditional relationship, and China respects that and they’re quite happy wth the explanation and discussions, so it was ok.

Joseph: Internally, the PNGDF has a plan to have up to 10,000 soldiers – 7,000 active force and 3,000 reserve force. And so the Papua New Guineans who are coming to serve through the program to join the ADF will never be part of PNGDF. They will be members of the ADF. So there will be no poaching going on from PNGDF and PNGDF will maintain its sovereignty and constitutional obligations under section 202 of our Constitution. Therefore it is not confused in that those joining the ADF won’t be members of PNGDF. They’ll be just ordinary Papua New Guineans who will come and join the ADF.

Source: Australia’s climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record

1. The 31st Australia-Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum was held in Canberra on 20 October 2025 and was co-chaired by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia and the Hon Justin Tkatchenko MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea.
2. Other participating Ministers for Australia were: the Hon Richard Marles MP, Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Defence; Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for Women, Minister for Government Services, Minister for Finance, and Minister for the Public Service; Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, and Special Minister of State; the Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, and Minister for Defence Industry; the Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for Home Affairs, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Cyber Security, and Minister for Immigration and Citizenship; the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations; the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Attorney-General; the Hon Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Emergency Management and Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government; and, Senator the Hon Nita Green, Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Assistant Minister for Tourism, and Assistant Minister for Northern Australia.
3. Other participating Ministers for Papua New Guinea were: the Hon John Rosso MP, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister for Lands, Physical Planning, Urbanisation and Immigration; the Hon Dr Billy Joseph MP, Minister for Defence; the Hon Peter Tsiamalili Jnr MP, Minister for Police and Acting Minister for Information, Communication and Technology; the Hon William Duma MP, Minister for State Enterprises; the Hon Ian Ling-Stuckey CMG MP, Minister for Treasury; the Hon Kinoka Feo MP, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports; the Hon Jason Peter MP Minister for Community Development, Religion and Youth, the Hon Richard Maru MP, Minister for International Trade and Investment; the Hon Lucas Dekena MP, Minister for Education; and the Hon Jacob Maki MP, Vice Minister for Police.
4. Ministers noted the significance of this Ministerial Forum being the first since Prime Ministers signed the Papua New Guinea-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty – the Pukpuk Treaty – on 6 October 2025, elevating the relationship to an equal and reciprocal Alliance. Ministers underscored that this historic milestone was founded on respect for the sovereignty and mutual benefit of both nations, based on generations of trust and a shared commitment to a stable, prosperous, and peaceful region. Ministers emphasised that the Alliance extended beyond defence and reflected who we are to each other and an elevation across all dimensions of the relationship.
5. Ministers warmly reflected on the Golden Jubilee celebrations marking PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence on 16 September 2025. They affirmed that the bilateral relationship was at a historic high point, acknowledging the maturity of PNG’s democracy and its growing leadership in the region, forged by a shared history, mutual respect and ongoing collaboration. Reaffirming their enduring partnership, Ministers highlighted shared aspirations in an evolving regional and global landscape.
6. Ministers recognised the depth of the contemporary relationship between PNG and Australia, underpinned by the Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership (CSEP). Ministers welcomed significant achievements and progress since the 2024 Ministerial Forum, including: the signing of the Mutual Defence Treaty; the entry into force of the Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA); the announcement of a deal to support a PNG team – the PNG Chiefs – to play in Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) and the National Rugby League Women’s Premiership (NRLW); the release of the Australia-Papua New Guinea Development Partnership Plan (DPP); and multiple parliamentary visits from both countries.

CSEP Pillar 1 – Strong Democracies for a Stable Future

7. Ministers recognised both countries’ shared commitment to the democratic principles that underpin the relationship. PNG welcomed Australia’s gift for the 50th anniversary of PNG’s independence of support for the construction of a new wing for PNG’s National Parliament, which recognised the role of our parliaments in reflecting the voices of a country’s people and our common understanding of the democratic principles that underpin the modern Australia-PNG relationship. PNG acknowledged Australia’s ongoing support for PNG’s electoral reform priorities.
8. Ministers discussed the importance of addressing gender inequality and disability-related barriers, strengthening gender and social inclusion partnerships, and responding to gender-based and sorcery accusation-related violence. Ministers welcomed the introduction of PNG’s new Disability Services Bill 2025 and looked forward to working together to promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities, supporting their equal inclusion in all aspects of community life.
9. Ministers welcomed the entry into force of the BSA in December 2024. Ministers noted the swift implementation of the ‘full-circle’ law and justice initiatives agreed at the 2024 Ministerial Forum. Ministers acknowledged Australia’s support to PNG authorities in addressing violence in the Highlands – through locally-led peace talks, land mediation, and skills training for at-risk youth and former warlords. Ministers also noted joint efforts with the United Nations and the Centre for Armed Violence Reduction to advance peacebuilding and protection in conflict-affected areas.
10. Ministers acknowledged Australia’s support under the BSA to strengthen PNG’s 16 national law and justice agencies, building capability, improving coordination, and supporting a more resilient justice system. They further welcomed the deepening people-to-people links through court partnerships, 13 Australian judges serving in PNG, and enduring institutional collaboration. They also welcomed Australian technical support to strengthen PNG’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks.
11. Ministers welcomed that funding through the BSA had made the Australia-PNG policing partnership the largest Australian Federal Police (AFP) partnership globally. Ministers celebrated the completion of new police barracks in Port Moresby and regional offices in Mount Hagen and Kokopo and welcomed new barracks underway in both locations. Ministers welcomed the launch of PNG’s Recruits and Investigations Regional Centre of Excellence on 21 March 2025, a Pacific-led, Australian-backed flagship initiative under the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI). Ministers looked forward to the expansion of recruit training accommodation and facilities under the initiative. The increase in the delivery of barracks will increase police recruits to 700 per year, and is on a path to 1000 a year. To build middle management capability in the RPNGC, Ministers agreed to support under the BSA mentoring from former officers from Commonwealth countries.

CSEP Pillar 2 – Close Friends, Enduring Ties

12. Australia congratulated PNG on the momentous occasion of its 50th anniversary of independence. It had been an honour for Prime Minister Albanese, Deputy Prime Minister Marles and Minister Conroy to join the celebrations in PNG. Ministers acknowledged the breadth of initiatives delivered in both countries to celebrate the Golden Jubilee, including the co-badging of the 2025 Australia Awards as the Somare-Whitlam Awards, and the success of the inaugural PNG-Australia international relations short course. Ministers agreed that the course would be held annually to foster deeper understanding between our two nations.
13. Ministers reflected on the deep cultural ties between Australia and PNG, marking the 40th anniversary of the Torres Strait Treaty’s entry into force. Ministers recognised the Torres Strait as home to our countries’ oldest continuing people-to-people connections. They acknowledged the significant role of the Treaty’s traditional inhabitants in implementing the Treaty and preserving cross-border connections. Ministers noted Australia’s First Nations foreign policy approach, highlighted by the Ambassador for First Nations People’s participation in this year’s Torres Strait Treaty Joint Advisory Council meeting.
14. Ministers reaffirmed PNG and Australia’s partnership with the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) to support the entry of the PNG National Rugby League (NRL) Franchise – the PNG Chiefs – into the NRL and an elite women’s competition in 2028. Ministers recognised the importance of the Franchise as a symbol of our bilateral relationship and our shared love of sport. Ministers reaffirmed PNG and Australia’s commitment to the long-term success of the PNG Chiefs through expanded player pathways and improved grassroots and community rugby league through the Pacific Rugby League Partnership, including the leadership of the PNG Rugby Football League. This Partnership builds on a long history of successful investments at elite and community levels, including League Bilong Laif, the PNG Hunters, the establishment of the Santos Cup and PNG and Australia’s joint initiative in the PNG NRL Bid Academy.
15. PNG welcomed Australia’s commitment to put in place an NRL visa package to support PNG Chiefs’ players, officials, supporters and media to travel to Australia for NRL games, training and events. The details of the package would be finalised before the end of the year. Ministers agreed to consider further streamlined visa processes to encourage greater connections of our people.
16. Ministers agreed to establish a working group comprising immigration and foreign affairs officials from Australia and PNG. The working group will establish a structured dialogue to continue to simplify visa processes.
17. Ministers also welcomed PNG’s continued participation in the second year of the Pacific Engagement Visa scheme and noted PNG again received the highest visa allocation of participating countries. Ministers agreed that officials should work together to help PNG streamline its processes and address systemic barriers to ensure the program meets the mobility aspirations of PNG citizens and builds the PNG diaspora in Australia.

CSEP Pillar 3 – Economic Partnership for Prosperity

18. Ministers reflected on 50 years of economic cooperation and recognised that supporting the conditions for economic prosperity was at the heart of the relationship today. Ministers recognised the depth of our trade and investment relationship with bilateral trade of AUD7.7 billion in 2024. Ministers also committed to work together to support PNG’s aspirations for greater market access and to develop PNG’s trade capacity and capability to enhance its market integration within Australia, Southeast Asia, and the wider Pacific. Ministers discussed the benefits of free trade agreements in enhancing regional economic integration and acknowledged the role regional trade agreements could play in growing PNG’s market access. Ministers welcomed the entry into force of the WTO Fisheries Agreement.
19. Ministers recognised the crucial role of sustainable infrastructure to attract international investment, support businesses to grow, and provide jobs and livelihoods. Ministers welcomed ongoing cooperation on critical infrastructure investments, including the AUD200 million of infrastructure delivered this year and an Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility pipeline that includes more than AUD1 billion in grants and loans to support major capital projects in ports (AUD621 million), roads (AUD76 million) and electrification (AUD306 million) across PNG. Ministers acknowledged support from AIFFP in the ports sector.
20. Ministers acknowledged the close existing partnership between PNG and Australia on telecommunications and agreed that bringing down consumer internet prices was critical to improving digital access, driving business investment and economic growth and enabling increased education opportunities through online learning. Ministers further agreed on the importance of ensuring the compatibility and resilience of telecommunication systems. Ministers agreed the next step in advancing our telecommunications partnership was to undertake an independent assessment to guide a blueprint for further reform and investment. Ministers tasked senior officials to complete the assessment by PNG Investment Week (December 2025) with a view to finalising a blueprint prior to the next Ministerial Forum.
21. Ministers reaffirmed the commitment from the 2024 Ministerial Forum and assurance within the 2024 budget support loan to build stronger investment screening structures in PNG that encourage foreign and domestic investment in critical infrastructure that is economically viable and secure. Ministers welcomed the progress officials had made to strengthen assessments made by the Central Agencies Coordinating Committee and encouraged continued effort.
22. PNG welcomed Australia’s support for PNG’s IMF programs and Budget Repair Plan, and PNG acknowledged Australia’s AUD3.1 billion, or PGK8.4 billion, in budget support lending since 2020 as a critical short-term measure linked to PNG’s own economic reform agenda. PNG is expected to repay PGK610.5 million in interest and principal of this vital budget support in 2024. Ministers noted PNG was the only country Australia had provided repeated International Monetary Agreements Act loans to, and agreed this evinced our shared commitment to PNG’s prosperity. Ministers discussed PNG’s progress against assurances attached to the 2024 budget support loan, including maintaining per capita expenditure in health and education, and the declining need for budget support due to budget repair. Australia reflected on the phase down of Australia’s lending and agreed to examine if there were other ways to support PNG’s fiscal reform efforts. Australia commended PNG’s continued progress on its IMF Extended Credit Facility and Extended Fund Facility Program and the significant economic reform PNG had undertaken since the program’s commencement.
23. Ministers commended the consistent commitment from the Australian and PNG business communities to advocate for the policies and investment needed to foster business confidence. Ministers thanked representatives from the Australia-Papua New Guinea Business Council and the Business Council of Papua New Guinea and reflected on the constructive discussion in the annual Australia-Papua New Guinea Business Dialogue held on 20 October 2025. They recognised the Dialogue as a cornerstone of business engagement in the bilateral relationship. Ministers welcomed the successful meeting of the Australia-Papua New Guinea Business and Senior Officials Working Group in Port Moresby in May 2025 and agreed that senior officials and business representatives convene ahead of the next Dialogue to explore opportunities and address shared challenges.
24. Ministers recognised strong biosecurity systems as a prerequisite to establishing market access protocols for initiating trade in new agricultural products. Ministers welcomed progress to bolster PNG’s biosecurity regime under the Australia-PNG Biosecurity Twinning Program and noted its early successes in capacity building and facilitating connections. Ministers noted ongoing construction of the Australian-funded PCR laboratory in Port Moresby, to enhance biosecurity testing and boost agricultural trade. Ministers reiterated the importance of effective domestic and international agricultural supply chains to support food security and create export opportunities.
25. Ministers agreed that labour mobility programs were a clear win-win option for PNG and Australia. PNG workers are helping meet labour shortages in many sectors of the Australian economy, with PNG’s labour mobility workers in Australia steadily increasing and more than 6,000 worker mobilisations through overseas labour mobility programs since 2019. Ministers agreed more could be done to accelerate the number of Papua New Guineans working in Australia. Ministers agreed that efforts should focus on improved governance arrangements, capacity building for labour mobility systems, work to support demand, and training to ensure a quality work-ready pool. Ministers agreed to diversify, expand and grow PNG’s labour participation across PALM scheme sectors. Ministers also agreed the importance of building a competitive workforce through skills development and training, including formal qualifications.
26. Ministers reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the peace process between PNG and the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the economic development of Bougainville.

CSEP Pillar 4 – Strategic Cooperation for Security and Stability

27. Ministers welcomed the elevation of the relationship to an Alliance under the Pukpuk Treaty, where Australia and PNG share the highest level of strategic trust. The Pukpuk Treaty provided a foundation to expand defence cooperation, enhance interoperability, and strengthen joint responses to regional and global security challenges. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to bringing the Treaty into force upon completion of their respective domestic processes, and to working together to realise its full potential in support of our shared security and a region that is peaceful, stable and prosperous. They welcomed the Defence Ministers’ joint statement on practical initiatives to bring effect to the Treaty.
28. Ministers welcomed the commencement of bilateral consultations on a recruitment pathway for Papua New Guinean citizens to join the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Ministers recognise this initiative as a demonstration of mutual strategic trust.
29. Ministers welcomed the handover of the redeveloped HMPNGS Tarangau (Lombrum Naval Base), and noted it was now a fully operational PNG sovereign asset. They further commended PNG’s successful hosting of the first overseas iteration of Exercise Talisman Sabre and joint work to build PNG’s sovereign maritime and aviation capabilities. Ministers noted Australia’s continued support for PNGDF growth and capability enhancement, including infrastructure upgrades, provision of uniforms, and expanded training opportunities.
30. Ministers reflected on Australia and PNG’s close and longstanding cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR). Ministers welcomed progress on further deepening links between Australian and PNG disaster response agencies, following the Enga Landslide in 2024, including through PNG’s participation in Exercise Convergence in Australia in 2025. Ministers welcomed the announcement of a AUD25 million package of support from Australia to strengthen PNG’s disaster management and response capabilities, including the construction of humanitarian warehouses, a new twinning program between Australia’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and PNG’s National Disaster Centre (NDC), as well as scoping support for an emergency command and control centre in the NDC.
31. Ministers acknowledged progress under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cyber Cooperation between Australia and PNG, including the support of and training by the Cyber Rapid Assistance for Pacific Incidents and Disasters (RAPID) facility. Ministers committed to ongoing cooperation on cyber security, cyber resilience and crisis response. Ministers noted the international increased risk of cyber-attacks and acknowledged that all decisions regarding critical digital infrastructure and vendor selection must be made in a manner that advance national security and economic interests. Ministers agreed to discuss opportunities arising from artificial intelligence and data centres, including to improve government services.
32. Ministers welcomed Australia’s support for PNG’s digitalisation agenda and adoption of cloud-based data solutions to improve cyber resilience, including progress on the development of a government cloud audit and roadmap. Ministers welcomed progress towards a Digital Development, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and Cyber Security MoU, consolidating and elevating our Cyber and ICT MoUs in the context of the BSA’s emphasis on cyber security and economic opportunity of digital technologies.
33. Ministers welcomed the positive impact of Climate FIRST, the new investment working to increase PNG’s access to global climate-financing and noted Australia and PNG’s focus on forestry cooperation. They recognised the important contribution of PNG forests in reducing global carbon emissions and welcomed progress on the 2023 MoU on Forest Cooperation. Ministers welcomed Australia’s foundational contribution to the Pacific Resilience Facility, which is expected to lay the foundation to attract investment by other countries.

CSEP Pillar 5 – Social and Human Development

34. Ministers welcomed Australia’s enduring development partnership with PNG, with an estimated AUD707 million in total Official Development Assistance (ODA) to PNG in 2025-26. Ministers welcomed progress in advancing the resolution of taxation issues impacting ODA, acknowledging the reciprocal commitment of both nations to ensure efficient and effective use of Australian ODA. Ministers acknowledged the importance of timely application and compliance with respective treaty commitments and issuance of PNG Designated Aid Status Certificates to implementing ODA organisations.
35. Ministers welcomed the DPP, and its alignment with goals set out in PNG’s Vision 2050 and Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP-IV). Ministers welcomed the DPP’s focus on driving deeper development cooperation and positive outcomes in health, education, climate, inclusion and protection of marginalised groups, embedding of First Nations’ perspectives, and empowerment of women and girls. Ministers welcomed the continuing efforts of PNG Women Lead to promote gender equality, women’s leadership and economic empowerment, and combat gender-based violence.
36. Ministers reflected on the role of education in effecting lasting change and underscored the importance of PNG’s continued prioritisation of education in its annual budgets. Ministers noted PNG’s progress towards providing accessible, affordable and quality education for all under PNG’s MTDP-IV, and recognised Australia’s commitment to grow its education investment under the DPP in support of these goals. Ministers commended PNG’s successful hosting of the 2025 Conference of Pacific Education Ministers and its role in bringing together education leaders from across the region to discuss shared challenges.
37. Ministers noted the DPP’s commitment to supporting girls’ education and improving school attendance. To this end, Ministers welcomed the announcement of new initiatives supporting improved learning outcomes and retention, including the UNICEF-implemented Smarter Safer Schools and the PNG Secondary Education Program, which will focus on leadership at secondary schools including National Schools of Excellence. Ministers welcomed PNG’s landmark World Bank International Development Association (IDA) loan in education, which will expand Australia’s Partnership for Improving Education program to eight new provinces.
38. Ministers noted the announcement of new initiatives, including the Strongim Wok Long TVET program (PNG-Australia Strengthening TVET program) and Pacific Australia Skills, which give effect to our commitments under the Joint Statement of Intent on Technical and Vocational Education and Training to improving TVET outcomes, upskilling and job access in PNG. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to a progress report on the Statement’s implementation at the next Ministerial Forum.
39. Ministers discussed Australia’s long-standing cooperation and investment in PNG’s health sector, partnering to strengthen sustainable access to, and use of, essential health services. Ministers recognised health partnership projects in every PNG province, as well as the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. Ministers recognised Australian support for infrastructure, including long-standing support for the Daru General Hospital, as an important component in strengthening PNG health systems. Ministers welcomed ongoing cooperation in responding to health emergencies, including support to PNG’s polio response, and the nearly tripling of Australia’s investment in HIV services this financial year.
40. Ministers welcomed ongoing engagement on democratic governance and service delivery, underpinned by the shared values of inclusion, accountability, and community empowerment. They acknowledged the enduring contribution of the Churches Partnership Program to strengthen the capacity of churches to deliver essential health and education services.

CSEP Pillar 6 – Near Neighbours, Global Partners

41. Ministers emphasised the critical role of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), as the apex of the regional architecture in delivering our shared vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region. Ministers reflected on the importance of PIF unity and deepened regionalism as a path to seizing opportunities and managing challenges facing the region over the coming year. They reflected on the importance of Forum Partners, recognising their contributions in offering diverse perspectives and fostering development, and their alignment with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Blue Pacific Principles for Dialogue and Engagement.
42. Ministers reflected on Australia and PNG’s close and longstanding cooperation on collective Pacific security responses, including in support of the Biketawa Declaration, the Boe Declaration on Regional Security and now the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration. They commended personnel from both countries for participating in all three Pacific Police Support Group deployments, alongside Pacific partners, to Samoa in October 2024, Vanuatu in December 2024, and Palau from June–July 2025, in response to requests for security support and welcomed PNG’s continued leadership through its hosting of the Police Recruit and Investigations Training Facility under the PPI. Ministers looked forward to building stronger regional response capabilities in consultation with other Pacific Island countries. Ministers welcomed PNG’s hosting of the Joint Heads of Pacific Security meeting in 2025. Ministers reaffirmed their support for a coordinated regional response to transnational crime in the Pacific, in line with commitments from the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
43. Ministers acknowledged the value of a Pacific voice at multilateral fora. PNG welcomed Australia’s update on the status of its bid to host the 31st UNFCCC Conference of Parties (COP31) in 2026 as a Pacific COP. Ministers committed to continue to work together to advance the bid in the lead up to COP30 in Brazil.

Declaration

This Joint Communiqué reflects discussions at the 31st Australia-Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum held in Canberra, Australia on 20 October 2025.

Agreed at: Australian Parliament House, Canberra, 20 October 2025

For the Government of Australia
Senator the Hon Penny Wong
Minister for Foreign Affairs

For the Government of Papua New Guinea
Hon Justin Tkatchenko MP
Minister for Foreign Affairs