Category: Australian News

Today’s budget update has shown the enormous cost of another three years of Labor.

Australians are suffering through the worst collapse in living standards on record and we’ve had 7 consecutive quarters of a family recession.

There is nothing in this budget update that will restore what has been lost under Labor.

There is no light at the end of the tunnel for Australia in today’s budget update.

Labor has turned a $15.8 billion surplus into $143 billion of deficits, with no plan to return the budget to balance for a decade.

Today’s statement shows Labor is the biggest spending government outside of wartime or a global crisis.

At a time when inflation is still too high, Jim Chalmers and Anthony Albanese have added an additional $347 billion in spending since the election.

Labor is spending $12 for every $1 saved, just in this budget update.

This will mean higher debt, higher taxes, higher inflation, and higher interest rates for longer.

There is now $233 billion of red ink in our nation’s finances over the next four years, with rising debt, and higher interest payments on that debt.

Also in this update, we’ve seen new migration figures. They show Labor has completely failed to manage immigration in this country.

One person is arriving to live in Australia every 46 seconds.

There’s been 1.3 million migrants during this term of Parliament, 700,000 more than expected at the election due to Labor’s mismanagement.

If Labor gets another term, migration will hit 2 million in total with no plan for housing and infrastructure.

What we have seen today is that the picture for another three years of Labor is a painful disaster for Australians.

And Labor takes no responsibility for its economic and fiscal mismanagement – every day it has yet another person to blame and yet another excuse.

The only thing Jim Chalmers does more than spin is spend.

Australians simply can’t afford another three years of Labor.

Australia’s initial humanitarian assistance to support recovery efforts following yesterday’s devastating Port Vila earthquake will arrive in Vanuatu this afternoon.

Assessments following the 7.2-magnitude earthquake are ongoing, but extensive damage has occurred to buildings in and around Port Vila, and hospitals are under significant pressure as medical staff treat those injured.

In response to requests from the Vanuatu Government, Australia has deployed a $2 million immediate response package, which includes a 64-person Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) and two canines, to undertake urban search and rescue operations.

The Australian DART team will work alongside local authorities to recover people trapped within buildings, conduct safety assessments and remove hazardous materials.

An Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) has been deployed to support health authorities treat the injured and to assess further needs.

A five-person Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Crisis Response Team and a Liaison Officer from the National Emergency Management Agency will also be deployed to assist Australia’s consular and humanitarian response.

Nine additional Australian Federal Police members will arrive in Port Vila today in addition to the six members already posted to Vanuatu working alongside the Vanuatu Police Force with the emergency response.

These members will assist with command and control to assess how to respond to the incident, setting up emergency communications and drone operations, and undertaking disaster victim identification.

Australia will also provide support to the Vanuatu Government’s National Disaster Management Office to assist in managing the emergency response.

These teams have deployed via a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Hercules, with the Australian Defence Force ready to provide further support as needed.

DFAT is aware of a number of Australians in the affected region and is providing consular assistance to those in need.

Australian citizens and permanent residents in Vanuatu can register with DFAT’s registration online portal to receive important information and updates and should read the latest travel advice at https://www.smartraveller.gov.au

Australians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre (+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas or 1300 555 135 in Australia).

We are working closely with France and New Zealand under the FRANZ Arrangement on damage assessments and to coordinate our ongoing assistance and support the Vanuatu Government-led response.

Imagery will be available via Dropbox.

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“Australia stands ready to assist the Vanuatu Government as required in this critical time.

“Australia’s connection with the government and people of Vanuatu is strong and we will continue to work with them in this time of need.”

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong:

“We send our deepest condolences following this dreadful tragedy.

“My message to the people of Vanuatu is Australia is here to help. This immediate package of support will ensure those in urgent need receive lifesaving assistance.”

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus:

“The Australian Federal Police has a proud history of working with their Vanuatu Police Force colleagues.

“The AFP Members living and working in Vanuatu are already assisting with the emergency response and the additional officers will provide additional valuable expertise at this dark time.”

Acting Minister for Emergency Management Catherine King:

“The Australian Government is supporting the Government of Vanuatu during this devastating disaster, including rapidly deploying a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) to support emergency response and early recovery efforts on the ground.

“Their work over the coming days will be incredibly important as they provide practical assistance and significant technical capabilities to support communities and local authorities during these difficult times.”

Acting Minister for International Development and the Pacific Matt Keogh:

“Our thoughts are with the people who have lost loved ones and those displaced by yesterday’s devastating earthquake.

“We stand ready to provide further assistance to the people of Vanuatu as the extent of damage becomes clear.”

Today I travelled to Kyiv to express Australia’s unwavering solidarity with the people of Ukraine and announce further support to assist them in response to Russia’s brutal, illegal war.

Australia has unequivocally condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and provided more than $1.5 billion in assistance to Ukraine since the full-scale conflict began in February 2022.

In Kyiv, I met with Ukraine’s Prime Minister Shmyhal, Foreign Minister Sybiha, Defence Minister Umerov and Energy Minister Galushchenko and announced that the Albanese Government is building on our commitment to Ukraine with the following:

• Australia will provide $66 million to the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, to assist with Ukraine’s vital recovery and reconstruction efforts.
• Australia will also contribute $10 million in assistance to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund to provide heat and electricity for Ukrainians.

I also visited the site of Australia’s Embassy in Kyiv that was closed by the Morrison Government in 2022, where I was updated on the progress of work to enable the full return of Australia’s diplomatic presence.

The Albanese Government has always said we would reopen our Embassy in Kyiv when it is safe to do so. I was pleased to announce we are reopening the Embassy.

From next month, Australia’s Ambassador as well as our Deputy Head of Mission will return to Kyiv.

During my visit, I met families at ‘Save Ukraine’ – a community organisation that supports vulnerable Ukrainian families and children that have been damaged by this terrible conflict where I told them Australia will contribute $80,000 to help facilitate their work.

What happens to Ukraine matters to Australians. Ukraine’s fight against Russia has consequences for our national security and the security of the Indo-Pacific.

Today and every day, Australia stands with Ukraine against Russia’s aggression.

The Australian Greens have called today’s mid-year budget update a wasted opportunity to tackle the skyrocketing cost of living at a time when many are at breaking point.

The Greens say Labor could have used the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) handed down today to add dental and mental health into Medicare, and stop the $176 billion in tax breaks that make it impossible for renters to buy their first home.

Labor could have used it to get rid of subsidies for polluting fossil fuel giants.

Any of these would have given people across the country good news before Christmas and the new year. 

Instead, Labor has refused to take the bold action needed to improve people’s lives for the better.

Australian Greens Treasury spokesperson, Senator Nick McKim:

“Labor has predictably missed the chance to make big corporations pay their fair share of tax so more can be done to help people who are really struggling to pay the bills.

“In a wealthy country like ours, no one should be going without or struggling to afford the basics. After decades of Labor and Liberal governments, people are paying too much while one in three big corporations pay no tax. This Budget update is more of the same.

“This Budget update was an opportunity to do something meaningful to help with cost-of-living. We could have had dental into Medicare, but instead we’ve got massive hand outs to fossil fuel corporations that are driving the climate crisis.”

Leader of the Australian Greens, Adam Bandt MP:

“Labor and Liberal spend more on tax handouts to wealthy property investors than people struggling to buy their first home.

“It’s clear Labor won’t act on the housing and rental crisis unless pushed. 

“With a minority government likely, the Greens will keep Peter Dutton out and get Labor to wind back handouts for wealthy property investors, make big corporations pay tax and use that money to build homes people can afford.”

The Greens have urged the Albanese Government to ‘Dutton-proof’ new funding for the ABC in law before the election to protect it from future Coalition cuts. The Greens are offering their support in the Senate to build a “Dutton-proof fence” when Parliament returns in February for what could be the final sitting days of this term.

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is Greens spokesperson for Communications, Greens Manager of Business in Senate, Senator for South Australia:

“Peter Dutton has a fixation on cutting & attacking the ABC which is why we need to lock 5-year funding terms in law now before the election.

“The Greens are offering Labor a pathway through the Senate in February to build a Dutton-proof fence and protect the ABC from another round of Coalition cuts. Let’s get it done when Parliament returns.

“The Coalition cut hundreds of millions from the ABC & SBS when they were last in power and the Greens have long called for the full restoration of funding. Today’s announcement of $83m over 2 years, while welcome, does not heal the wounds after a decade of deep Coalition cuts.

“I also want to congratulate Mr. Hugh Marks on his appointment as new Managing Director of the ABC today. The ABC is a national treasure charged with a serious responsibility to inform, entertain, reflect and educate Australia.

“We need someone who will fight to protect the independence of the ABC and stand up to Peter Dutton and the Coalitions attacks. I hope Mr. Marks is up to the job.”

The Victorian Greens say that the proposed anti-protest laws announced by the State Labor Government today are worrying as they could have a chilling effect on democracy and silence important voices like survivors of child sexual abuse and social, environmental and peace activists. 

Labor’s anti-protest laws could chill public debate on important issues and outlaw demonstrations like those of survivors of child abuse who have raised awareness by tying ribbons on the fence outside St Patrick’s cathedral in Ballarat.

While the Greens MPs have condemned anti-Semitic and Islamophobic attacks, criminalising peaceful protest is not the right way to respond and sets a dangerous precedent.

The changes signal a continuation of a worrying anti-protest trend. Recent analysis shows that Australia jails climate protestors at a rate greater than any other country in the world, and the Victorian Greens are concerned that these laws could have an even more chilling effect on citizens ability to peacefully protest on social and environmental issues. 

Peaceful protest plays a vital role as part of a healthy democracy and the Victorian Greens say they’re concerned that these laws are a worrying overreach from Labor that will stop people’s basic right to have their voice heard.”

the Victorian Greens spokesperson for Justice, Katherine Copsey: 

“In a rush to look like they’re doing something, the State Labor Government has announced some very worrying anti-protest laws that seem designed to stop many peaceful demonstrations from going ahead and could ultimately silence important voices like survivors of child sexual abuse and social, environmental and peace activists.

“Peaceful protest plays a vital role in a healthy democracy. It’s how we speak truth to power and can have our voices heard. These laws risk massive overreach and this kind of policy on the run could lead to perverse outcomes and have a chilling effect on our democracy.”

the Victorian Greens spokesperson for Multiculturalism and Anti-racism, Anasina Gray-Barberio: 

“It is really concerning that multicultural organisations are going to be asked to sign an undisclosed agreement to prove they are equal and valid members of the community. I’m really worried about what impact this will have on multicultural communities. We need greater transparency and an intersectional lens to how this is going to work.” 

1. On 16 December 2024, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs the Rt Hon David Lammy MP and the Secretary of State for Defence the Rt Hon John Healey MP hosted the Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator the Hon Penny Wong and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence the Hon Richard Marles MP for the Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) at Lancaster House in London.
2. Ministers reflected on the strength of the UK-Australia relationship underpinned, by a rich history and shared values, which has evolved into a modern and dynamic partnership. Ministers agreed on the enduring importance of the UK-Australia relationship in delivering economic growth and positive security benefits to our peoples and globally.

Progressive partners addressing global challenges

3. Ministers recognised the inseparable nature of the security and prosperity of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. They committed to working together to shape a world characterised by an adherence to rules and norms, rather than power or coercion.
4. Ministers unequivocally condemned Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and demanded that Russia withdraw its troops from Ukraine’s internationally recognised territory. The UK and Australia are resolute in their support to Ukraine’s Armed Forces in the face of Russia’s illegal war of aggression. Ministers welcomed significant increases in support for Ukraine from both the UK and Australia, including Australia’s announcement to extend its contribution to training Ukrainian personnel through Operation Interflex, the UK-led, multinational training effort which has now trained over 50,000 Ukrainian recruits.
5. Ministers shared deep concerns about the role of third countries in enabling Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine. Ministers urged China to step up efforts to promote international peace and security including by preventing its companies from supporting Russia’s invasion and its defence industrial base through the supply of critical components. Ministers also called on China to use its influence with Russia to stop its military aggression and to seek an immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of its troops from Ukraine’s internationally recognised territory. Ministers strongly condemned the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) support for Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine through the supply of munitions, arms and other materiel. Ministers agreed the deployment of DPRK troops to Russia was an alarming escalation, with impacts for the security of the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.
6. Ministers welcomed the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon as a critical step for de-escalating heightened tensions in the Middle East. Ministers strongly urged both sides to respect the terms of the ceasefire and work to secure lasting peace. An end to the violence in Lebanon must also be a catalyst for an end to the war in Gaza.
7. Ministers reiterated their condemnation of Hamas’ horrendous attacks on 7 October 2023. Ministers reiterated their call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the urgent and unconditional release of all hostages, better protection of civilians, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis.
8. Ministers expressed grave concern at the humanitarian situation and high level of civilian casualties, alongside the UN’s warning that famine is likely in parts of northern Gaza. They agreed that Israel must do much more to deliver its promise to flood Gaza with aid. All parties must adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law, including to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. They urged all parties to ensure the protection of humanitarian workers and respect the mandate of the UN and humanitarian partners to operate safely, including by properly implementing de-confliction measures.
9. Ministers expressed concern at the legislation adopted by the Knesset that would restrict the UNRWA’s vital work in Gaza and the West Bank. They reiterated their support for UNRWA and emphasised the vital role it plays delivering aid in Gaza and essential services in the West Bank, which no other UN agency has the mandate or capability to do. They agreed UNRWA must continue to do all it can to ensure the highest standards of governance and accountability are met.
10. Ministers condemned the rise in extremist settler violence committed against Palestinians in the West Bank, including the Israeli expansion of settlements and illegal outposts, which undermines security and stability in the West Bank and threatens prospects for a lasting peace. Ministers underscored the need to secure a pathway to a two-state solution where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace and security within internationally recognised borders.
11. Ministers condemned Iran’s attacks on Israel and continued provision of missiles, Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles and other military and financial support to its partners and proxies. Ministers encouraged all parties to exercise restraint and urged Iran to use its influence in the region to prevent further escalation. Ministers condemned Iran’s transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia and recognised the significance of this escalation, and the concerning trend of Iran’s ever closer military support to Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine.
12. Ministers reaffirmed their determination that Iran must never develop a nuclear weapon, noting that the ongoing escalation of its nuclear programme has no credible civilian justification.
13. Ministers expressed continued concern over the human rights situation in Iran, particularly the repression of political opposition and the persecution of women, girls and minority groups. They called on Iran to cease its unacceptable targeting of individuals, including journalists and dissidents outside the country.
14. Ministers voiced support for the people of Syria and reiterated the importance of an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition process in the spirit of the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254. Ministers called on all parties to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity and national unity and respect its independence and sovereignty.
15. Ministers expressed serious concern regarding the intensification of dangerous and destabilising behaviour by China’s vessels in the South China Sea, including towards Philippine and Vietnamese vessels and crew. Ministers opposed any coercive or destabilising activities, agreeing that this behaviour has endangered lives and created risks of miscalculation and escalation. Ministers called for adherence to international law, particularly UNCLOS, to ensure peace, security and prosperity in the South China Sea. They called on all states to refrain from the militarisation of disputed features, the dangerous use of coastguard vessels and maritime militia, and efforts to disrupt other states’ lawful offshore resource development. Ministers also expressed serious concerns about the situation in the East China Sea.
16. Ministers reaffirmed that the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal decision is final and binding on the parties. Ministers also emphasised that any Code of Conduct on the South China Sea must fully accord with international law, particularly UNCLOS, not prejudice the rights or interests of States under international law and not undermine existing inclusive regional architecture. Ministers confirmed their resolve to work together, and with partners, to support states’ rights and freedoms in the South China Sea, consistent with UNCLOS, including freedom of navigation and overflight.
17. Ministers underscored the critical importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They emphasised that differences should be resolved peacefully and not through the threat or use of force or coercion; and reaffirmed their shared opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo. They recognised that the international community benefits from the expertise of the people of Taiwan and committed to working together to support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations, as a member where statehood is not a prerequisite or as an observer or guest where it is. They reiterated their will to continue deepening relations with Taiwan in the economic, trade, scientific, technological and cultural fields.
18. Ministers expressed serious concerns about human rights violations in China, including the persecution and arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Tibetans and the erosion of their religious, cultural, educational and linguistic rights and freedoms.
19. Ministers recognised both the UK and Australia have extensive and enduring connections to Hong Kong. Ministers called for an end to British National Jimmy Lai’s prosecution in Hong Kong and for his immediate release. Ministers agreed that the imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong has significantly eroded the rights and freedoms of Hong Kongers, a situation that has worsened with the enactment of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance in March 2024. Ministers shared their grave concern at the sentences handed down for members of the NSL47, including Australian citizen Gordon Ng, repeated their call for the repeal of the National Security Law and called for the release of Mr Ng.
20. Ministers strongly condemned the DPRK’s provocative and escalatory actions which pose a serious threat to international peace and security. Ministers called on the DPRK to abandon its weapons of mass destruction, ballistic missiles and malicious cyber programmes which are deeply damaging for peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and wider region. Ministers urged the DPRK regime to return to talks and work towards peace on the peninsula. Ministers expressed grave concerns over human rights violations in DPRK.
21. Ministers expressed their ongoing concern over foreign information manipulation and interference, which threaten democratic values, human rights and political stability. They agreed the UK and Australia would continue working together to promote healthy, open and fact-based environments.
22. Ministers agreed to continue coordination on strategic cyber deterrence, including use of attributions and sanctions to impose costs on malicious cyber actors and disrupt irresponsible behaviour in cyberspace. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further expand cooperation on digital governance to preserve and promote a multistakeholder model through the implementation of the UN’s Global Digital Compact and in the forthcoming 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society. Ministers committed to further expand cooperation and coordination on cyber security capacity building and cyber incident response in the Indo-Pacific, in coordination with key partners.
23. Ministers agreed to deepen joint engagement on targeted sanctions, including their enforcement through enhanced information exchange. Ministers reiterated their intention to support more effective UK-Australia sanctions counter-circumvention efforts across the Indo-Pacific. They welcomed Australia’s recent endorsement of the Call to Action on Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’.

Partnering in the Indo-Pacific

24. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working together, and with regional countries, to ensure an open, peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific where sovereignty and international rules and norms are upheld. They emphasised the importance of responsible management of strategic competition, and the need for all countries to commit anew to promoting dialogue and practical measures to reduce risks of miscalculation, escalation and conflict. Ministers agreed the UK’s enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific was important to strategic balance in the region.
25. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ASEAN centrality. They agreed on the importance of the ASEAN-led regional architecture in protecting peace and stability and promoting secure and resilient growth. Ministers maintained their commitment to supporting the practical implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific across maritime cooperation, connectivity, the SDGs and economic cooperation.
26. Ministers affirmed both countries’ commitment to deepen and diversify economic ties with Southeast Asian countries, including through the UK’s enhanced economic engagement and Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 and Australia’s AUD 2 billion Southeast Asian Investment Financing Facility. Ministers recognised the progress made on enhanced development collaboration in Southeast Asia, including on sustainable infrastructure. Ministers agreed to further strengthen coordination, including in the Mekong subregion, noting alignment and existing cooperation in areas such as blended and other financing, for the clean energy transition. They agreed to jointly work on increasing private capital mobilisation, including by developing approaches to standardise blended finance products.
27. Ministers agreed to cooperate on digital development in the Indo-Pacific, including through coordinated programming, sharing information and lessons learned. In particular, the UK will share learnings from its work on last-mile connectivity and digital literacy in underserved communities, complementing Australia’s significant investments in undersea cables, and other forms of ICT infrastructure. Ministers committed to working with AI for Development partners to support the safe adoption and use of AI in the Indo-Pacific.
28. Ministers reiterated their deep concern at the deteriorating political and security situation, and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, including military airstrikes against civilians, and the grave impact on the people of Myanmar and neighbouring countries. Ministers welcomed the October ASEAN Leaders’ Statement and supported enhanced cooperation between ASEAN and the UN in addressing the Myanmar crisis. Ministers urged the military regime to implement the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus, immediately cease all violence, release all those unjustly detained, allow safe and unimpeded access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and return Myanmar to a civilian-led democracy, through genuine, inclusive dialogue. Ministers urged all parties to prioritise the protection of civilians.
29. Ministers reiterated their commitment to working with Pacific island countries through existing regional architecture, recognising the centrality of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). They emphasised the importance of pursuing engagement that reflects Pacific priorities, guided by the PIF’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. They committed to enhanced cooperation on Pacific climate finance, including through the Green Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility, to continue to work together in the establishment of the Pacific Resilience Facility, a Pacific priority, and to increase coordination to improve the coherence and quality of climate technical assistance deployed in Pacific Island countries. Australia welcomed just under £1M of UK funding for tackling illicit finance and enhancing financial inclusion in the Pacific.
30. Ministers welcomed the UK’s endorsement of the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles and agreed to work together to advance transparent and high-quality development in line with the principles, including with multilateral development banks. They recognised the value of engaging the private sector to lift infrastructure quality in line with the principles, including through the Pacific Business Club. Ministers reaffirmed the importance of supporting Pacific-led approaches to building national and regional disaster readiness, such as the Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Program, and agreed to identify opportunities to work together on disaster risk financing in the Pacific.
31. Ministers agreed to continue enhancing interoperability with the militaries of the Pacific through continued engagement in bilateral and regional exercises, and as guided by the priorities of Pacific partners. Supporting Australia’s Pacific Maritime Security Program, and in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy Sea Training Group, the Royal Navy will offer tailored maritime training support at the request of Pacific island partners. The partnership will offer the expertise of the Royal Navy’s forward deployed Offshore Patrol Vessel crews.
32. Ministers agreed to formalising the UK-Australia Maritime Security Dialogue, to be held annually. Ministers committed to future hydrography cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, including the launch of the Hydrography Leaders Programme for the Southwest Pacific in December 2024.
33. Ministers also agreed to continue collaboration on shared priorities in the Indian Ocean including maritime security. They reiterated their commitment to the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) as the premier ministerial-level forum in the Indian Ocean region and to continue exploring opportunities to collaborate in IORA.

Enhancing our mutual security through capability collaboration

34. Ministers reaffirmed their enduring commitment to the AUKUS partnership, which is strengthening peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, and pledged to ensure it fulfils its security potential, as well as delivering economic benefits. They welcomed strong progress made by all AUKUS partners to support Australia’s acquisition of a conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability, including significant work underway to deliver SSN-AUKUS, which both Australia and the UK will build and operate. Ministers reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to increase conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine port visits to Australia from 2026, and, as early as 2027, establish a rotational presence of one UK Astute class submarine as part of Submarine Rotational Force-West at HMAS Stirling.
35. Ministers acknowledged efforts to support the growth and resilience of the UK and Australian submarine industrial bases. They recognised the significance of the mobilisation agreement signed last month between the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA), BAE Systems Australia Submarines Pty Ltd and ASC SSN AUKUS Pty Ltd which will ensure work to build Australia’s SSN-AUKUS submarines can commence as quickly as possible. They welcomed the announcement of the first Tasking Statements contracted underneath the tripartite mobilisation agreement on 16 December 2024, enabling the ASA, BAE Systems Australia Submarines Pty Ltd and ASC SSN-AUKUS Pty Ltd to work together to develop detailed plans, schedules and workforce initiatives for the Australian build program of the SSN-AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine. Ministers also welcomed the wide range of initiatives to deliver a more resilient and prosperous trilateral submarine supply chain in the UK and Australia, particularly including the initiation of the UK-focused effort under the AUKUS Defence Industry Vendor Qualification program.
36. Ministers welcomed the significant progress made during the first round of negotiations on the Australia-UK AUKUS Pillar I Treaty, which occurred in London in November 2024. The Treaty will establish the strategic and operational framework to implement the AUKUS Optimal Pathway and joint delivery of SSN-AUKUS. They acknowledged the vital role of the Treaty in demonstrating our shared interest in promoting a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Ministers welcomed the formation of the SSN-AUKUS Programme Interface Office within the Submarine Delivery Agency, which will coordinate and integrate the sovereign UK and Australian SSN-AUKUS programmes and supply chains.
37. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to setting the highest non-proliferation standard for Australia’s acquisition of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines and welcomed the 15 November 2024 report by the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency on Australia’s naval nuclear propulsion program, which acknowledged the active engagement by AUKUS partners with the IAEA.
38. Ministers hailed continued progress under AUKUS Pillar II and reiterated the imperative of Pillar II to accelerate the delivery of advanced military capabilities. Ministers acknowledged the strengthening of undersea warfare capabilities and maritime autonomy as well as further strides in quantum technologies, cyber capabilities, hypersonics, counter-hypersonics, artificial intelligence and electronic warfare. Ministers noted ongoing consultations with Japan, Canada, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea to identify possibilities for collaboration on advanced capabilities projects under AUKUS Pillar II on a project to project basis.
39. Ministers recognised the momentous amendments to AUKUS partners’ respective export control regimes, facilitating billions of dollars of licence-free defence trade and maximising innovation across the full breadth of our defence collaboration while mutually strengthening our defence industrial bases. The Ministers reiterated the importance of implementation and the need to continue to progress efforts to streamline defence trade.
40. Ministers welcomed commitment to further enhance the UK-Australia strategic underwater warfare relationship outside of, and alongside AUKUS. Australia welcomed the UK’s decision to transfer system knowledge and information on the S2087 towed array sonar for the first time with another nation. Ministers acknowledged the transfer and operation of this world-leading capability would further enhance interoperability and interchangeability of the UK and Australia’s Type 26 and Hunter Class Frigate programmes. Ministers also agreed to deepen maritime co-operation on autonomous systems.
41. Ministers welcomed progress through 2024 to further modernise the defence relationship, and looked forward to the entry into force of the updated Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland for Defence and Security Cooperation. They welcomed agreement to the terms of reference for new operational level joint staff talks, building on an already deep relationship between operational headquarters. The first of these talks will take place in early 2025. Ministers further welcomed the confirmation by the UK of an ongoing contribution to the Combined Intelligence Centre-Australia within Australia’s Defence Intelligence Organisation. Ministers agreed to explore enhanced collaboration on Land Mobility Platforms, including opportunities for shared production and sustainment. Ministers also committed to work more closely together bilaterally on defence innovation, including by leveraging our respective expertise in quantum.
42. Ministers acknowledged significant levels of exercise activity throughout 2024, and committed to retain a regular tempo of UK participation in major Australian hosted multi-national exercises. More than 400 UK Commandos deployed to Australia for Exercise PREDATORS RUN, alongside the United States and the Philippines. The UK also contributed fast jets and refuelling and cargo aircraft to the largest ever Exercise PITCH BLACK in August 2024, having transited from Europe as part of an Anglo-French combined air group. Ministers agreed to explore enhanced collaboration on Land Mobility Platforms, including exploring opportunities for shared production and sustainment.
43. Ministers acknowledged significant levels of exercise activity throughout 2024, and committed to retain a regular tempo of UK participation in major Australian hosted multi-national exercises in the future. Recognising the UK’s deep experience in conducting amphibious operations, they welcomed opportunities for the UK to share lessons and experience to help with Australia’s transformation of its Army into a more amphibious-capable land force, as directed by the Australian National Defence Strategy. Building upon UK participation in Exercise PREDATOR’S RUN 2024, Ministers agreed to further enhance interoperability between UK and Australian amphibious and littoral forces, including through participation in Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 2025.
44. They announced an ambitious level of UK-Australian integration in the 2025 deployment of the UK-led multi-national Carrier Strike Group (CSG), which will see interaction and support with Royal Australian Navy units, aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force, alongside support in the space and cyber components. Ministers highlighted the CSG’s participation in Exercise TALISMAN SABRE as a high point for engagement, providing critical opportunities to test high-end warfighting capabilities with UK force elements spanning the breadth of the UK Defence enterprise. Ministers welcomed an Australian port visit by the HMS Prince of Wales, the first ever by a Queen Elizabeth-class carrier, a milestone presenting further opportunities for engagement.
45. Ministers reaffirmed their nations’ continued investment in the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) as a unique multilateral arrangement that plays a constructive role in enhancing regional peace and security. They noted continuous enhancements and complexity of FPDA exercises, and welcomed opportunities to incorporate elements of the CSG in exercise serials in 2025.

Strengthening the multilateral and international system

46. Ministers reaffirmed the importance of the multilateral system and the international rules, norms and standards that all countries agree, to protect the world’s peoples and the sovereignty of all nations. They reaffirmed the Pact for the Future and its accompanying annexes, as a testament to the collective determination, even in challenging times, to ensure the multilateral system meets contemporary needs and expectations. Ministers committed to working together in shaping multilateral reform for the betterment of all states’ security, and prosperity, and respect for universal human rights.
47. Ministers emphasised the importance and centrality of the Sustainable Development Goals for peace and prosperity for people and the planet. They agreed to work closely toward a strong set of outcomes for developing country partners at the UN’s fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in 2025, including advocating to reform International Financial Institutions, standardising blended and private finance approaches, and strengthening development effectiveness.
48. Ministers underlined their commitment to the full implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda, as we approach the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 in 2025, and agreed to continue to work together, including as members of the International Alliance on the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative.
49. Ministers reiterated their determination to pursue a new Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, to galvanise political commitment to take action and amplify calls for full compliance with international humanitarian law. They expressed grave concern that 2024 is the deadliest year on record for humanitarian personnel with an increasing number killed in Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Ukraine and elsewhere. They committed to advocate at the highest level and to take practical action to reverse the current trend.
50. Ministers congratulated Samoa on hosting a successful Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), the first hosted by a Pacific island country. They reaffirmed their collective ambition to progress shared commitments agreed at CHOGM, including helping small and vulnerable states to meet the impacts of climate change, action to protect and manage our ocean, empowering young people with access to education and skills, and boosting intra-Commonwealth trade and investment. Ministers reaffirmed their vision for a revitalised Commonwealth and expressed their shared commitment to working with the next Secretary-General and Samoa as Chair-in-Office to pursue the ongoing institutional reform process.

Promoting resilient economic growth and advancing the clean energy transition

51. Ministers committed to drive sustained economic growth via the UK and Australia’s diplomatic and trading relationship. They reaffirmed the importance of the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, to economic security and prosperity. They agreed to continue working together to advance necessary reforms of the WTO to better equip the Organization to address global trade challenges, including by restoring a fully functioning dispute settlement system as soon as possible.
52. Ministers welcomed the UK’s accession to CPTPP, with the agreement entering into force between the UK and the nine of the 11 CPTPP parties, including Australia, in December 2024. Ministers agreed that this strengthened our countries’ already close trading relationship and further bolsters CPTPP as the “gold standard” agreement of global significance. Ministers welcomed members commitment to working together to take forward the General Review in order to maintain CPTPP’s status as the standard-bearer for trade agreements. Ministers also welcomed the decision taken by CPTPP Members on 28 November to establish an Accession Working Group for Costa Rica.
53. Ministers welcomed the strong trading relationship between the UK and Australia, which is underpinned by the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement. High rates of utilisation and strong business engagement are signals that the agreement is creating new export opportunities and delivering benefits to Australian and UK businesses. Ministers welcomed the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement Strategic Innovation Dialogue held in April and the second Strategic Dialogue on Gender Equality to take place in 2025, along with ongoing work to promote skills exchange and trade in professional services.
54. Ministers welcomed the signing of the new ambitious UK-Australia Climate and Energy Partnership at COP29. They committed to enhancing bilateral cooperation on climate and energy, supporting both partners’ ambition to play significant roles in the global clean energy transition, pave the way for new clean energy industries and technology, create new job opportunities, and revitalise each nation’s industrial base.
55. Ministers welcomed agreements reached at COP29 on a new climate finance goal and on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, establishing the building blocks that set out how carbon markets will operate. They agreed that more needs to be done to take forward the outcomes of the Global Stocktake agreed at COP28 on transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems and the call for ambitious, economy wide Nationally Determined Contributions, covering all greenhouse gases, sectors, and categories, and aligned with limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the Call to Action for No New Coal in national climate plans. The UK reaffirmed its support for Australia to host COP31 in 2026 in partnership with the Pacific.
56. Ministers acknowledged the practical collaboration and commitment to lead innovation in clean energy technologies under the Australia-UK Renewable Hydrogen Innovation Partnership. Ministers welcomed the announcement of the twelve grant recipients, supporting six cutting-edge projects which will drive advances in industrial and transport decarbonisation.
57. Ministers recognised the role critical minerals play in meeting our Net Zero commitments and energy transition ambitions, and the need for diverse, resilient and sustainable supply chains. Ministers agreed to further our cooperation, including to support critical mineral projects and specific business-to-business engagement through the existing Joint Working Group under our joint Statement of Intent. Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to the promotion of high environmental and social governance standards for critical minerals.
58. Ministers welcomed announcement of the UK-Australian Offshore Infrastructure Decommissioning Partnership on 9 December, which will support greater collaboration and investment flows between our two countries on offshore oil and gas decommissioning.

A new national road safety campaign ‘don’t let a car change who you are’, funded by the Albanese Government, has launched across Australia today.

Driver behaviour is critical to improving safety on our roads and the campaign message of “Safer driving starts with you” encourages drivers to think about their own behaviour behind the wheel and reinforces the importance of driving safely.

The campaign reminds drivers that behaviour that is not considered extreme, like tailgating, speeding and mobile phone use while driving, all contribute to motor vehicle accidents and deaths on the road.

Improving road safety and achieving zero road deaths and serious injuries by 2050 is a collective effort. That’s why this campaign is designed to build on the efforts of states, territories and local governments and encourage drivers to do their part in keeping our roads safe.

Road safety is always a priority and that is why the Albanese Government has been increasing funding for local roads since 2022 and acted on long-standing calls for better safety data.

We have moved to double funding for Roads to Recovery to $1 billion a year and since then over 2000 projects have been approved, 1390 will have started by the end of December and more than 690 are due to be completed by the end of this year.

That means more potholes are being fixed, more kerbs are being replaced, more roads are being resealed, and more grading and drainage is being done.

We are also increasing the Black Spot program to $150 million per year, and revising it so more projects are eligible, and at least $200 million per year is under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

The $2.9 billion Road Safety Program continues to deliver over 1800 projects, improving the safety of over 1,910 kilometres of Australia’s road network.

We have also reversed the previous Coalition Government decision in 2014 to freeze road maintenance funding for national highways, not only permanently indexing it but also back-paying the amount lost by the freeze.

Through our latest funding agreements with the States and Territories, we are increasing the road safety data collected in order to better inform responses to road trauma and the concerning increase in road deaths.

The Albanese Government will continue to prioritise road safety and hope that at this time of year, everyone will do their part by driving responsibly to ensure that everyone can enjoy time with family and friends.

The campaign and an executive summary of the research that informed it can be found at saferdrivingstartswithyou.gov.au.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Every driver has a responsibility to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on our roads.

“I urge anyone behind a wheel these holidays to reflect on their driving behaviour, and make changes to contribute to road safety.

“My Government is committed to investing in fixing local roads and will continue to make road safety a priority.”

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“We want families and friends gathered around dinner tables or picnics these holidays, not worried about loved ones on the road.

“That’s why the Albanese Government has increased investment in fixing roads because each dollar spent on a road is a dollar spent on road safety.

“We can each invest in our own safety by driving carefully, making the difference between getting to where we want to go safely or not getting there at all.”

Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm: 

“Any death on our roads is one too many, but unfortunately, we’ve seen an increase in deaths on our roads over the last 12 months.

“Our road safety campaign and the Albanese Government’s record investments show we’re committed to improving safety on our roads, but solving this challenge is a collective responsibility where we all play an important role.

“We’re all committed to reducing road trauma by investing in safer infrastructure and prioritising the collaboration between governments, industry, and experts, as we work towards keeping Australians safe on our roads.”

PM&C acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.

The Australian Government can confirm that Australian citizens, Matthew Norman, Scott Rush, Martin Stephens, Si Yi Chen, and Michael Czugaj have returned to Australia.

The five men committed serious offences, serving over 19 years in prison in Indonesia.

We would like to convey our deep appreciation to the Government of Indonesia for its cooperation to facilitate the men’s return to Australia on humanitarian grounds.

This reflects the strong bilateral relationship and mutual respect between Indonesia and Australia.

The Australian Government has consistently advocated for the men and provided consular support to them and their families.

The men will have the opportunity to continue their personal rehabilitation and reintegration in Australia.

We ask that the media respect the privacy of the men and their families at this time.

The Australian Greens have responded to Prime Minister Albanese cosying up to multinational salmon farming corporations on Tasmania’s west coast, saying he should ensure that salmon farming in Macquarie Harbour ends. 

“The PM and Peter Dutton are in a race to the bottom of Macquarie Harbour where they will find the Maugean skate on the edge of extinction,” Greens Senator for Tasmania Senator Nick McKim said.

“The big winner will be the profits of foreign salmon farming corporations and the big loser will be the environment and in particular the ancient Maugean skate.”

“Silly political games like this are driving an ancient species into extinction and destroying the marine ecosystem of Macquarie Harbour.”

“This is extinction politics, and Tasmanian salmon is extinction salmon.”

“Foreign salmon farming corporations are chasing ever bigger profits and Labor and the Liberals are falling over themselves to deliver, no matter what the cost to nature.”

“These are the same greedy corporates who now want to expand around Storm Bay and in other Tasmanian coastal waters, and plunder a recently discovered massive population of sardines to feed their toxic fish factories.”

“Salmon farming needs to be booted out of Macquarie Harbour and transition support given to the small number of workers impacted.”