Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have signed a landmark defence agreement that deepens their military ties and commits both nations to come to each other’s aid if either faces attack. 

The deal, years in the making, reflects a long-standing partnership between the two neighbours — but analysts say it also serves to counter China’s growing influence across the Pacific.

Under the agreement, Australia will gain access to PNG’s military bases and personnel. In return, up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans will be able to serve in the Australian Defence Force, with the possibility of applying for Australian citizenship later on.

With almost 12 million people, PNG is the most populous nation in the South Pacific — and a key strategic partner for Canberra.

A response to regional power shifts

China has strengthened its trade and diplomatic presence in the Pacific over recent years, striking security deals with nations like the Solomon Islands. Australia and its Western allies — including the United States — have been working to push back through new partnerships and funding agreements.

For example, Australia has invested heavily in police training in the Solomon Islands and Tuvalu, and in August, it signed a $328 million security and business deal with Vanuatu.

The new PNG pact, known as the “Pukpuk Treaty” — “pukpuk” meaning crocodile in PNG Tok Pisin — states that an armed attack on one country would threaten the peace and security of both. “Like a crocodile, it has bite,” the document says, symbolizing the strength and readiness of both nations’ forces.

Leaders emphasize trust, not politics

PNG Prime Minister James Marape and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed the treaty in Canberra on Monday.

Marape stressed that the agreement wasn’t about taking sides in global rivalries:

“We’ve been transparent with China,” he said. “Australia is our security partner of choice, and China understands that. Our broader relationship with them remains unchanged.”

Albanese called the partnership a reflection of “generations of mutual trust,” saying it would help keep the Pacific “peaceful, stable, and prosperous.”

Strengthening defence and cooperation

The treaty goes beyond defence — covering cybersecurity, intelligence sharing, and even electromagnetic warfare cooperation.

PNG’s Defence Minister, Billy Joseph, told ABC that the two nations’ forces will be “totally integrated.” Analysts say this will not only strengthen Australia’s regional presence but also help fill recruitment gaps in its military. Photo by Nick-D, Wikimedia commons.