Australia's Defence Pact with PNG: A Strategic Move Against China

Tue Oct 21 2025 02:08:54 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Australia has signed a significant defence deal with Papua New Guinea that will enhance military cooperation and counter China's influence in the Pacific.

Australia's new defence deal with Papua New Guinea allows military collaboration and the potential for 10,000 Papua New Guineans to join the Australian military. The agreement aims to strengthen regional security and limit Chinese access to PNG, amidst concerns about China's growing influence in the Pacific. Both countries emphasized their longstanding relationship, while experts highlighted the importance of regional stability in response to geopolitical shifts.

Australia will gain access to Papua New Guinea's (PNG) military facilities and troops under a key deal that will see the nations come to each other's aid if either is attacked.

Both governments say the deal was born from a yearslong alliance between the two Pacific neighbours, but experts say it is aimed at countering China's growing influence in the region.

The deal ensures China will not have the same access to infrastructure in PNG as it does in other Pacific Islands, said Oliver Nobetau, project director of the Lowy Institute's Australia-PNG network.

It will allow as many as 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve in Australia's military, and give them the option to become Australian citizens.

With nearly 12 million people, PNG is the largest and most populous South Pacific nation.

Australia and its Western allies, including the United States, have been attempting to counter these efforts.

In response to geopolitical shifts and China's activities, the deal emphasizes military preparedness and strategic collaboration, enhancing both nations' security frameworks.

This agreement highlights a significant commitment by Australia to uphold regional stability, while also addressing domestic military recruitment challenges.