Australia and Indonesia signed a security treaty on Friday, facilitating deeper military cooperation and new training facilities in Indonesia’s Southeast Asian economy. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced in a joint statement with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto that Australia would embed a senior Indonesian officer within its defence force to enhance strategic initiatives.
The pact also included supporting the establishment of military training facilities for Indonesia, which aims to bolster its ability to conduct joint drills. Canberra seeks to strengthen its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region against China’s growing influence, while Jakarta remains cautious with foreign policy due to economic ties with Beijing, which is its largest trading partner.
Albanese described the treaty as a “historic moment” in their relationship and emphasized that Australia and Indonesia are now more than just partners but are close friends. Prabowo highlighted that the agreement reflects Indonesia’s commitment to the principle of good neighbors and its active foreign policy.
The treaty builds on an existing 2024 defence pact, which committed closer cooperation in a region marked by tensions. Thousands of troops from both countries had held joint drills earlier this year following the signing of the 2024 accord.
Albanese is concluding his fifth official visit to Indonesia, praising its growing investment in Australia and framing the treaty as a significant step in their security and defense partnership.