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PNG Cabinet Approves Mutual Defence Treaty With Australia, Paving Way for New Alliance

The pact now awaits parliamentary ratification in both countries before an expected prime ministerial signing.

Papua New Guinea’s Cabinet has reportedly approved the terms of a mutual defence treaty with Australia.
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Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape attend a flag lowering ceremony in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, September 16, 2025. AAP/MICK TSIKAS via REUTERS
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Overview

  • Prime Minister James Marape confirmed cabinet approval of the Pukpuk treaty, which commits each nation to assist the other if attacked.
  • The agreement opens recruitment pathways for up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force under dual arrangements.
  • Provisions aim to deepen interoperability through joint training, technical integration and cybersecurity cooperation, and to support PNG defence modernisation including a planned reserve.
  • Clauses stipulate that third‑party relationships must not hinder implementation, following Chinese warnings against an exclusive deal.
  • Australian leaders say the pact will elevate ties to a formal alliance—the first since ANZUS—with signing expected soon but not yet confirmed and final ratification still required in both parliaments.