Category: Australian News

Australia is sending aerial firefighting assets and teams to support the response to devastating wildfires in France.

A CH-47D Chinook helicopter, equipped with an 11,300-litre water tank, and a Bell 412 reconnaissance and support aircraft will be deployed to France, accompanied by 24 highly skilled aerial and ground crew from the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS).

Together, they will support around-the-clock firefighting operations, providing much-needed relief to emergency services responding on the ground.

The wildfires in France are among the worst the country has experienced in decades, driven by multiple active fire fronts and a prolonged summer heatwave.

The NSW RFS is internationally recognised as an expert in bushfire management and represents the very best of Australian emergency management capability.

The assistance is being provided in response to a request from the French Government. It will be delivered in close partnership with the Australian Defence Force, which will support the rapid deployment of personnel, aircraft and equipment through strategic airlift and logistics.

The deployment will take place in coming days.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles: 

“Australia and France work closely together in our region, and we are proud to be supporting them now during their time of need.

“The Australian Defence Force will make an important contribution to these efforts, using its assets to help get assistance to where it’s needed.”

the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong: 

“France is a close and valued friend of Australia, and we stand with the French people as they respond to these devastating wildfires.”

“The scale of these fires is immense, and it is in moments like these that the strength of our partnership and solidarity is most evident.”

the Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain: 

“Having seen firsthand the severe impacts bushfires have had on both my own community and many others across Australia, my heart goes out to the people of France.

“Australia has some of the finest fire-fighting capability on the planet and we are only too happy to do whatever we can to assist, just as France came to our aid during the 2019-2020 Black Summer Bushfires.

“I want to thank the emergency services personnel who are travelling to France. I wish you a safe deployment.”

NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib:

“Our emergency services are proud to support our international partners in their time of need, and the Chinook will be a welcome boost to French firefighting capabilities with its large water storage and night-time capabilities.”

“The deployment of RFS personnel, the Chinook and Bell 412 support aircraft, together with the ongoing work of the Marie Bashir large air tanker in the US, demonstrates the depth of capability NSW can deliver during major fire emergencies.”

Just when you thought the far-left media couldn’t sink any lower, the ABC has plumbed new depths of depravity by featuring – and refusing to take down or apologise for – a short film depicting some idiot’s perverted fantasy of torturing Gina Rinehart.

Why the hell are taxpayers still funding the ABC when it permits and even defends this sort of vile behaviour?

It’s just the latest controversy to hit the heavily biassed and completely unaccountable ABC, giving more impetus to calls to defund the so-called ‘national broadcaster’.

One Nation’s policy will withdraw taxpayer funding for the ABC’s operations in large markets already saturated with media organisations across the political spectrum, while continuing to fund some of the ABC’s operations in regional, rural and remote areas where there is a significantly reduced commercial media presence. If people in the cities want to consume ABC material, they’ll have to pay a subscription.

We expect this will save Australian taxpayers up to a billion dollars per year.

In days long past, the ABC used to set the benchmark in unbiased, objective news and current affairs. Somewhere along the line, things changed for the worse. The ABC has lost its social licence, lost much of its audience, and thrown away any claim to integrity.

AUKUS is taking another important step, with the Albanese Government selecting a designer for the submarine contingency dry dock capability in support of Australia’s conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarine fleet.

Leidos Gibbs and Cox Australia has been selected to lead the preliminary design for a contingency dry dock, which will be established in Western Australia to support our future nuclear-powered submarine capability. 

This announcement reflects the Albanese Government’s considered approach to delivering this capability and forms part of the Government’s broader investment in Western Australia across HMAS Stirling and the Henderson Defence Precinct for sovereign shipbuilding and the sustainment of our surface vessels and submarines.

Selecting the designer to provide floating dry dock design services will ensure Australia is ready to undertake critical repairs and maintenance for the nation’s future nuclear-powered submarines from the early 2030s, ahead of the requirement to conduct submarine depot-level maintenance from the late 2030s.

This contingency dry dock capability is a critical pre-condition of Australia receiving its first Virginia class submarine and will provide a critical contingency capability for Australia and its partners.

These vital maintenance capabilities will be established in accordance with domestic processes and regulatory requirements, and consistent with Australia’s international obligations to maintaining the highest standards for nuclear safety, security and safeguards.

In addition to supporting a strong, sovereign industrial base, a contingency dry dock capability will play a vital role in ensuring Australia can sustain and operate its future submarine fleet and work with our partners in the United States and the United Kingdom to support security and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.

This design work is underpinned by the Albanese Government’s investment of an initial $12 billion to deliver the Defence Precinct at Henderson which, alongside the Government’s record investments in AUKUS and shipbuilding, will support 10,000 direct jobs over the next two decades in Western Australia.

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“AUKUS is delivering the capabilities Australia needs to keep our nation safe.

“The contingency dry dock capability is a critical step in building a sovereign submarine sustainment system.

“This investment ensures Australia will have the infrastructure, workforce and industrial capability required to support our future nuclear-powered submarines.”

Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“AUKUS is happening right now.

“The development of infrastructure at Henderson will position Western Australia at the centre of our submarine sustainment enterprise.

“This is another example of AUKUS delivering long-term industrial capability and highly skilled jobs for Australians.”

The Coalition is demanding Labor stop its attack on Australian farmers, amid growing concerns that Labor could be putting Queensland’s crucial pineapple industry at risk.

Leader of The Opposition Angus Taylor said it was deeply concerning to hear from farmers who are worried about Labor’s new proposal to import pineapples from all areas of India and Indonesia into Australia.

With the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s draft report now open for public consultation, until 14 September, Mr Taylor said it was important the concerns of local growers were heard.

“Australia should support trade where it is safe and fair, however, new pineapple imports should not be approved until the science has been independently tested, the final conditions are clear and Australian growers are protected from biosecurity harm,” Mr Taylor said.

“The Coalition will always back our crucial agriculture industry and ensure their voices are heard – that’s why today’s meeting with local growers in Hervey Bay is so important.”

Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said Australia’s pineapple industry is overwhelmingly dependent on the domestic market, with only about eight tonnes of fresh or dried pineapple exported in 2024.

“Growers have told me today, they have no meaningful alternative market if additional imports displace Australian fruit or reduce domestic prices,” Mr Canavan said.

“Even modest import volumes could have a commercial effect if they arrive during peak Queensland production, particularly when growers are already facing rising input, labour and freight costs.”

Member for Hinkler David Batt said all Australian pineapples are grown in Queensland, especially in the electorate of Hinkler.

“The pineapple industry is already experiencing higher labour, fuel, freight, fertiliser, electricity and compliance costs, and even modest import volumes could place further pressure on our growers,” Mr Batt said.

“Growers are also asking whether or not imported pineapples would face the same labour, chemical, environmental and compliance costs as Australian growers.”

Pineapple Growers Association Australia chair Scott Maxwell said every year, more than 35 million pineapples are grown across Queensland, valued at around $80 million, so protecting the industry is crucial.

“We realise fair trade has to happen, but the issue we have is that they have identified numerous pests they have over there, and we no longer have the chemicals available to us in Australia to deal with those pests,” Mr Maxwell.

“They have identified mealy bugs, scale insects and thrips overseas, which an enormous concern. The biggest issue is that we don’t have a chemical registered to control them.”

Fraser Coast pineapple grower Col Hawken said being a small industry, local growers don’t have the money or resources to stop pests.

“If pineapples come into Australia from overseas and we don’t have chemicals to combat it, that’s it, we will be finished,” Mr Hawken said.

“It might be low risk, but to us, any risk, to any commodity, is simply too much risk to have.”

Labor’s more excitable fellow travellers have still not accepted the decisive result of the voice to Parliament referendum.

Linda Burney, the former Indigenous Australians minister who failed to deliver the voice for Anthony Albanese, will reportedly be awarded life membership in Labor at its national conference this week. She told the media she had no regrets pushing the voice to Parliament and said she hoped it would be revisited in the near future.

“I think [the referendum result] was a devastating outcome…but I have faith this issue will not go away,” she said. “If not a voice, then proper recognition of the whole story of this country in our Constitution would be most welcome.”

Burney doesn’t understand our Constitution. It’s not a document that “recognises stories”. It’s a document which effectively lays out the rules for parliaments governing Australia, and it already recognises every Australian indigenous or otherwise, by making no distinction between them.

But even Burney’s refusal to accept her own spectacular failure was eclipsed by the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU), which released a ‘blueprint’ ahead of the conference demanding the removal of “symbols of oppression, like the Union Jack on our flag and offensive colonial statues” from public life.

Racial division has always been part of Labor’s DNA. One people, one country under one flag – the current Australian flag – is part of One Nation’s DNA. Hiding our history doesn’t change it. Treating people differently based on race doesn’t unite Australia. The people have spoken, and they’ve rejected this division. One Nation will always oppose an indigenous voice in Parliament or changes to our national flag.

The Coalition has welcomed plans to examine a new oil refinery in Karratha, but warned Labor must scrap its carbon taxes for the project to succeed.

Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor said the $4 million pre-feasibility study into Perdaman’s proposal was welcome, but was not a fuel security strategy.

“Labor cannot promise a new refinery while its carbon tax is set to cost Australia’s last two refineries in Brisbane and Geelong $165 million by 2030,” Mr Taylor said.

“Unless Labor scraps these taxes, a new refinery will remain a pipe dream.

“The Coalition will axe Labor’s carbon taxes, scrap net zero, extend fuel security support, lift fuel stocks to 60 days, unlock more Australian oil and gas, and fast-track nationally significant projects including the Taroom Trough and Browse Basin.”

Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said Australia needs to “drill, baby drill” rather than tax our resources sector more, with the current two oil refineries expected pay more than $100 million dollars in carbon tax on some estimates by the end of the decade.

“I would love to see a new refinery and more oil and diesel, but in a cost-of-living crisis, and now a fuel crisis, why on earth would Labor continue to impose a carbon tax?” Senator Canavan said.

“A future Coalition government will scrap carbon taxes and we will scrap net zero. We have sovereignty of our resources and we can use what we have, right here in Australia, to create jobs and create our own energy supply. We can also invest in biofuels and coal-to-liquids technology.”

Shadow Minister for Energy Dan Tehan said Labor’s own policies were standing in the way of the fuel security Australia urgently needs.

“Labor cannot claim to support a new refinery while its carbon tax is making Australian refining less competitive and pushing up costs,” Mr Tehan said.

“Real fuel security means backing Australian production, protecting Australian jobs and ensuring families and businesses are not left exposed to overseas supply shocks.”

It comes as Mr Taylor and Mr Canavan tour the Stanwell Power Station with member for Flynn Colin Boyce. Mr Canavan said the coal-fired electricity generator was crucial and the Prime Minister should meet with the Queensland Premier also, to explore improving resources.

“The Queensland Premier has done a fantastic job with the state’s resources and the Prime Minister should focus on our national interest to develop our oil and gas reserves,” Senator Canavan said.

Member for Flynn Colin Boyce said under Labor, gas prices are up 41 per cent and electricity by 37 per cent.

“We must put all options on the table to lower the cost of fuel, gas and electricity – which is why today’s visit to Stanwell Power Station is so important,” Mr Boyce said.

The site of one of the state’s oldest coal-fired power stations is set to be transformed into a major new jobs, housing and recreation precinct which can support up to 3,500 new jobs and around 1,200 new homes.

The rezoning proposal for the former Wallerawang Power Station site will help drive the Lithgow region’s economic evolution and future growth.

The Minns Labor Government is doing the work the former government failed to do, to enable this prime land just 10km from Lithgow and adjacent to Lake Wallace to transform into an industrial hub and vibrant lakeside community.

The State Assessed Rezoning Proposal prepared by site owner Greenspot, covers approximately 620 hectares, which is more than double the size of Sydney CBD.

Key features of the proposal which is now on exhibition include:

• a new employment precinct with industrial and commercial land
• building heights between two and five storeys in designated areas
• more than 100 hectares of protected environmental conservation land and open space
• a tourism and recreation precinct adjoining Lake Wallace, connected to new walking and cycling trails through surrounding bushland.

The rezoning follows significant work undertaken by Greenspot to decommission and remediate the former power station site between 2021 and 2023 and supports the Lithgow region’s shift to new industries, following the closure of coal-fired power generation.

Developed in close collaboration with Lithgow City Council, NSW Government agencies and the site owner, the proposal was declared a State Assessed Rezoning Proposal due to its strategic significance, enabling a coordinated assessment process.

The proposal is on public exhibition until 5 pm, Tuesday 25 August 2026.

A community drop-in session will be held from 4 pm to 7 pm on Thursday, 6 August in the Scanlon room at the Black Gold Motel, 121 Main St, Wallerawang, giving interested community members the chance to speak directly with the project team.

For information and to have your say, visit NSW Planning.

This rezoning builds on the release of masterplans and rezoning proposals for the Mt Arthur Coal Mine and Macquarie Coal Complex which are set to unlock more than 7,000 jobs in the Hunter as part of major post-mining land transformations.

The Minns Labor Government is working with industry and councils to plan a secure jobs future as areas across the state evolve from coal to major industrial hubs.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The Wallerawang Power Station helped power New South Wales and the Lithgow community from 1957 to 2014. Now we’re giving this historic site the new future it deserves as an industrial hub and vibrant lakeside community.

“This proposal is an investment in the future of Lithgow region, which could enable thousands of new local jobs, homes and great open space.

“The Minns Labor Government is making sure regional communities have the support and investment they need to attract new industries and investment, creating a clear pipeline of opportunities for future generations.”

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said:

“Mining has long been a source of economic prosperity for NSW. As mines close, the government is committed to ensuring sites are rehabilitated safely, and the land is put to new industries that generate economic benefits and well paid jobs for the local communities.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to exploring new opportunities for post-mine land use which promotes new industries and encourages economic diversification.

”Sites like Wallerawang have supported jobs for generations. Our government is committed to ensuring sites like Wallerawang continue to provide employment opportunities for local communities.”

Mayor of Lithgow City Council Cassandra Coleman said:

“As Lithgow continues to power New South Wales this century the transformation of the former Wallerawang Power Station site will drive the next stage of new industry for our community.”

“The many community development opportunities and business opportunities this proposal provides again shows that Lithgow continues to be recognised as a critical regional hub”.

Australia and Singapore have signed a new Protocol on Economic Resilience and Essential Supplies under the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement, strengthening cooperation on energy security, critical supply chains and trade.

The Agreement delivers on the commitment made by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on 10 April 2026 to bolster the security of essential supplies, including petrol, and to keep trade flowing during periods of disruption.

Singapore is Australia’s largest fuel supplier, providing 55 per cent of Australia’s petrol, 15 per cent of its diesel and 23 per cent of its aviation fuel. With Australia importing around 90 per cent of its fuel needs, the agreement will support both countries’ economic resilience.

The Protocol also establishes the Australia-Singapore Economic Resilience Dialogue, creating a dedicated mechanism to advance practical cooperation on shared challenges. 

The Agreement was signed at the Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee (SAJMC) hosted in Adelaide today by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell.

Marking 30 years of cooperation, the SAJMC was first established in 1996 by then Prime Ministers Keating and Goh Chok Tong. Today’s discussions demonstrate the tangible value of Australia’s relationship with Singapore, a trusted regional partner with whom we work closely to advance our shared prosperity and security.

The SAJMC follows a series of high-level engagements in recent months, including the conclusion of negotiations on the Protocol by Minister Wong and Minister Farrell in April, and the 2026 Shangri-La Dialogue in May attended by the Deputy Prime Minister Marles.

Today, Ministers also agreed to further enhance our defence ties, witnessing the signing of the Australia-Singapore Industrial Base Resiliency Arrangement. 

This agreement builds on the enhanced Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation announced in October 2025, by strengthening cooperation between our defence industries and improving the resilience of our supply chains. 

More information on the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement is available at: Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles:

“Australia’s long-standing friendship and partnership with Singapore is underscored by a deep strategic trust.” 

“Our militaries have a long history of working together in our region, in support of the security and resilience of the Indo-Pacific.”

“Today we are growing our already strong defence partnership even further by strengthening cooperation between our defence forces and our defence industries.”

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong:

“Australia and Singapore have built one of the region’s closest and most trusted partnerships, underpinned by practical cooperation across trade, defence, energy security and economic resilience.”

“At a time of increasing global uncertainty, the Protocol will help ensure Australia and Singapore can respond together to disruptions and maintain access to the supplies our economies depend on.” 

“Australia and Singapore’s prosperity and security are closely linked. Together, we remain committed to strengthening the rules and institutions that support an open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell:

“Singapore is one of Australia’s closest trade and investment partners.”

“The signing of this Protocol is an important step to ensure Australia has what it needs to keep moving in the face of global supply chain disruptions.”

“The Protocol builds on the success of our free trade agreement and reinforces both countries’ support for open, free and fair trade.”

Australia and Singapore have signed a new Protocol on Economic Resilience and Essential Supplies under the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement, strengthening cooperation on energy security, critical supply chains and trade.

The Agreement delivers on the commitment made by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on 10 April 2026 to bolster the security of essential supplies, including petrol, and to keep trade flowing during periods of disruption.

Singapore is Australia’s largest fuel supplier, providing 55 per cent of Australia’s petrol, 15 per cent of its diesel and 23 per cent of its aviation fuel. With Australia importing around 90 per cent of its fuel needs, the agreement will support both countries’ economic resilience.

The Protocol also establishes the Australia-Singapore Economic Resilience Dialogue, creating a dedicated mechanism to advance practical cooperation on shared challenges.

The Agreement was signed at the Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee (SAJMC) hosted in Adelaide today by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell.

Marking 30 years of cooperation, the SAJMC was first established in 1996 by then Prime Ministers Keating and Goh Chok Tong. Today’s discussions demonstrate the tangible value of Australia’s relationship with Singapore, a trusted regional partner with whom we work closely to advance our shared prosperity and security.

The SAJMC follows a series of high-level engagements in recent months, including the conclusion of negotiations on the Protocol by Minister Wong and Minister Farrell in April, and the 2026 Shangri-La Dialogue in May attended by the Deputy Prime Minister Marles.

Today, Ministers also agreed to further enhance our defence ties, witnessing the signing of the Australia-Singapore Industrial Base Resiliency Arrangement.

This agreement builds on the enhanced Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation announced in October 2025, by strengthening cooperation between our defence industries and improving the resilience of our supply chains.

More information on the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement is available on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.

the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles:

“Australia’s long-standing friendship and partnership with Singapore is underscored by a deep strategic trust.”

“Our militaries have a long history of working together in our region, in support of the security and resilience of the Indo-Pacific.”

“Today we are growing our already strong defence partnership even further by strengthening cooperation between our defence forces and our defence industries.”

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong:

“Australia and Singapore have built one of the region’s closest and most trusted partnerships, underpinned by practical cooperation across trade, defence, energy security and economic resilience.”

“At a time of increasing global uncertainty, the Protocol will help ensure Australia and Singapore can respond together to disruptions and maintain access to the supplies our economies depend on.”

“Australia and Singapore’s prosperity and security are closely linked. Together, we remain committed to strengthening the rules and institutions that support an open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell:

“Singapore is one of Australia’s closest trade and investment partners.”

“The signing of this Protocol is an important step to ensure Australia has what it needs to keep moving in the face of global supply chain disruptions.”

“The Protocol builds on the success of our free trade agreement and reinforces both countries’ support for open, free and fair trade.”

• Joint Communiqué with

• The Hon Richard Marles MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence
• Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism
• Mr Chan Chun Sing, Minister for Defence
• Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
• Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry)

27 July 2026

1. Ministers from Australia and Singapore met in Adelaide for the 15th Meeting of the Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee (SAJMC) on 27 July 2026. Ministers noted that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the SAJMC mechanism. Ministers reaffirmed the strong and longstanding friendship and deep reservoir of strategic trust between Singapore and Australia, underpinned by the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP 2.0) signed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on 8 October 2025, which reflects shared interests, deep economic integration, and enduring people-to-people ties.
2. Ministers welcomed the strong early progress in this ten-year phase of cooperation under the CSP 2.0 since its launch. Ministers noted that cooperation across its five pillars: Contributing to Peace and Stability, At Home and In Our Region; Connecting Our Economies; Transitioning to Net-Zero; Forging New Frontiers; and Deepening Friendships and Capabilities – will prepare our economies and societies for challenges and opportunities now and in the future and continue to generate practical outcomes.

Bilateral Cooperation:

3. Our CSP 2.0 reflects the strength and strategic trust that characterises our relationship. It sets out the ambitious next phase of cooperation and underpins our shared prosperity, security and stability as we navigate emerging and evolving issues together.

Connecting Our Economies

4. Australia and Singapore share robust and dynamic trade and investment links, and complementary and interdependent economies. Singapore serves as a key gateway to Southeast Asia, while Australia remains a major economic partner for Singapore. We recognise the important role our countries play in each other’s economic prosperity and resilience, food and energy security and supply chains. In this context, we will review the Singapore-Australia Air Services Agreement to enhance connectivity and business exchanges between the two countries.
5. In an increasingly uncertain global environment, Ministers underscored the importance of coordination and cooperation to strengthen economic resilience and mitigate shared risks. The Ministers recognised the important role Australia and Singapore play in each other’s energy security; Singapore is Australia’s largest supplier of refined petroleum products, and Australia is one of Singapore’s largest suppliers of liquefied natural gas. Australia and Singapore are committed to working together to strengthen energy supply chain resilience including through accelerating renewable energy transition. Ministers underscored their shared commitment to working together, particularly during crises, to support a resilient, rules-based trade in energy products, through enhanced coordination, transparency, and early consultation.
6. Ministers welcomed the signing of the Protocol on Economic Resilience and Essential Supplies (‘the Protocol’) to the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA), which reflects the priority we accord each other with respect to trade in essential supplies. Ministers noted that the Protocol enhances cooperation on economic resilience and secure the trade in essential supplies between the Parties during times of supply chain disruptions. They reaffirmed that the Protocol was guided by the principles of an open, rules-based multilateral trading system.
7. Ministers highlighted the importance of structured dialogue in responding to shared economic challenges. Ministers welcomed the establishment of the Australia-Singapore Economic Resilience Dialogue under the Protocol and instructed officials to host the Dialogue before the end of the year. The Ministers were pleased to note continuing collaboration on food security under the bilateral Food Pact, including progressing finalisation of a Simplified Transhipment Model for red meat.
8. Ministers welcomed Australia’s commitment to enhancing business connections, trade and investment in Southeast Asia including through Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 and the Future Made in Australia agenda, as well as efforts to leverage Singapore’s connectivity and ties with Southeast Asia and Asia. The Ministers recognised the importance of investment in accelerating the region’s clean energy transition, and Singapore welcomed Australia’s investment of AUD 175 million into Singapore’s Financing Asia’s Transition Partnership initiative. They noted Australia’s Investment Deals Team is supporting a range of Australian investors in the region.
9. Ministers recognised the importance of submarine cables to digital connectivity and economic growth. They welcomed ongoing bilateral collaboration to promote submarine cable resilience and protection in the region, and encouraged the adoption of submarine cable best practices (such as the Enhanced ASEAN Guidelines for Strengthening Resilience and Repair of Submarine Cables), including the workshop that was co-organised by Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority and Australia’s Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre for ASEAN member states on best practice undersea cables management on 23-24 June 2026 in Singapore.

Transitioning to Net-Zero 

10. The global clean energy transition presents both a shared challenge and an opportunity for deeper cooperation. Singapore and Australia are united in our commitment towards net-zero and our role in accelerating the region’s clean energy transition. 
11. Ministers recognised the ongoing implementation of the Singapore-Australia Green Economy Agreement (SAGEA), which continues to facilitate practical initiatives to support both countries’ transition to net zero. They noted the Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC) work underway and called on officials, designated port authorities and action partners to actively progress GDSC trials and pilots that enable the maritime sector to establish credible decarbonisation pathways. Ministers also noted the ongoing collaboration to co-innovate products, services and solutions that drive trade and shape markets for nascent green industry sectors. They welcomed the further development of the joint grant program supporting this collaboration between Singapore and Australian businesses.
12. Recognising their shared commitment to strengthening regional energy security, Ministers welcomed the inaugural Ministerial Dialogue on Energy to be held on 28 July 2026 between Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen and Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry), Dr Tan See Leng. Ministers looked forward to building on the momentum of the inaugural Dialogue to chart the next steps in bilateral energy cooperation.
13. Ministers reaffirmed the importance of accelerating regional decarbonisation efforts. Ministers welcomed progress towards a legally binding bilateral instrument for the cross-border movement of carbon dioxide for offshore geological sequestration, with formal negotiations underway. Both sides look forward to concluding the agreement soon.
14. Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to collaborate on regional efforts to enhance grid interconnectivity, in line with the bilateral Cross-Border Electricity Trade Framework, which supports the development of a regional architecture for cross-border electricity trade. They also reaffirmed their shared commitment to accelerate the uptake of renewable energy and support energy security in Southeast Asia and facilitate new trade and investment opportunities in these areas.

Contributing to Peace and Stability, At Home and In Our Region

15. Ministers underscored the importance of longstanding and close defence and security cooperation between Singapore and Australia, and reiterated their commitment to further deepen our defence and security partnership under the CSP 2.0. The Ministers noted that Singapore and Australia’s strong defence partnership contributes to a stable and peaceful region. Ministers welcomed progress and committed to strengthening arrangements to enhance our militaries’ reciprocal access and rotational presence in Australia and Singapore, in line with the Memorandum of Understanding concerning Enhanced Defence Cooperation (eDC MoU) signed in October 2025.
16. Ministers acknowledged Singapore’s longstanding and continuing support for Australian aircraft, ships and personnel’s access in and through Singapore since 1971, and Australia’s  five decades of support for the Singapore Armed Forces’ training and rotational presence in Australia. Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment and contributions to the Five Power Defence Arrangements and the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus, which are critical to a stable and secure region.
17. They commended efforts to deepen defence science and technology collaboration, including through joint experimentation at Exercise Trident 2026, and science and technology cooperation in areas of mutual interest under the Joint Strategic Statement of Intent on Science & Technology Cooperation. Ministers noted the expanded professional defence exchanges and collaboration.
18. Ministers also welcomed the signing of the Industrial Base Resiliency Arrangement (IBRA), which will be a valuable tool to support our shared commitment to closer defence industrial collaboration.
19. Ministers emphasised the importance of practical cooperation in border management and law enforcement to address transnational challenges. Recalling the Border of the Future Partnership, Ministers were pleased to note the completion of a training program for Southeast Asia customs agency officers delivered by Australian Border Force (ABF) and Singapore Customs officers. Ministers welcomed the deepening of discussions between ABF and the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority on ways to further enhance operational cooperation at the border and to improve border security. They recognised the successful Home Team Science and Technology Agency and Australian Federal Police Forensics Working Group meeting held in March 2026 and welcomed the upcoming meeting in August 2026.
20. Ministers recognised the value of knowledge sharing to strengthen and support first responder agencies in radiological and nuclear emergency preparedness and response. They acknowledged the inclusion of Home Team Science and Technology Agency members at an Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) course in March 2026 and noted the ongoing discussion for a collaborative workshop in Singapore.
21. Ministers underscored the importance of continuing to strengthen cooperation to address evolving security challenges and to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous region. They noted that Singapore would host the 2nd Security Dialogue in October 2026. Ministers emphasised the importance of preventing conflict in the Indo-Pacific and underscored that all states have a shared responsibility in maintaining the conditions for peace and averting conflict. Amid entrenched strategic competition, Ministers recognised the increasing risk of conflict, including as a result of misunderstanding or miscalculation. They reiterated the need to promote open channels of communication, transparency and practical measures to reduce risks of escalation, crisis and conflict. They reaffirmed a commitment to work collaboratively to support a peaceful, stable and secure region, including ensuring ASEAN remains a vital and credible anchor for regional peace and prosperity. To this end, Ministers acknowledged work underway to strengthen collaboration on conflict prevention, including through capacity-building workshops and exchanges, and the promotion of open channels of communication to engender trust, encourage dialogue and maintain the conditions for peace and stability. The Ministers looked forward to further progress on a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty to facilitate government-to-government assistance in criminal investigations and prosecutions.
22. In this digitised age, Ministers highlighted the importance of promoting resilient, healthy, and fact-based information environments to counter misinformation, disinformation and foreign interference campaigns, and to protect institutional integrity. Ministers looked forward to the convening of the inaugural Strategic Communications Dialogue in Singapore in August to discuss common challenges and support domestic social cohesion and regional stability.

Forging New Frontiers

23. Ministers recognised the importance of innovation to create modern and dynamic economies. They reflected on the commitment under the CSP 2.0 to collaborate in future frontier domains, to develop innovative, and future-oriented solutions in emerging areas, including digital and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), and welcomed progress made in 2026. Practical approaches on AI will realise the economic opportunities of emerging technologies and shape the development of international standards and governance frameworks, promoting safe, secure and trustworthy AI adoption in the region. Ministers were pleased to note progress in strengthening bilateral cooperation through the inaugural Cyber and Digital Dialogue, to be held between senior officials in Australia on 30 July to pursue objectives outlined in the bilateral MoU on cooperation on AI. They also welcomed continued cooperation on online safety to safeguard our peoples in an increasingly digital society.
24. Ministers emphasised that cybersecurity cooperation is increasingly critical to national security, regional and international stability, in a digital economy. Ministers welcomed the renewal of the MoU on Cyber Security Cooperation signed on 24 February 2026. The renewed MoU will enhance collaboration on cyber security through: information sharing, training and the exchange of best practices on regulatory, policy and operational matters; joint cyber security exercises; promoting innovation, trade and investment; regional confidence building measures; and regional capacity building, including at the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence. Ministers welcomed progress by officials to operationalise the MoU, including through senior officials’ meeting. They noted that Australia was currently co-chairing the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus Experts’ Working Group on Cyber Security.
25. Ministers underscored the importance of strong public health systems and international cooperation in preparing for future pandemics. Ministers noted the close partnership during the COVID-19 pandemic and welcomed deepening cooperation between Australia’s Centre for Disease Control and Singapore’s Communicable Disease Agency, through in-person meetings between the agencies, including recently at the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
26. Ministers recognised the growing importance of the space sector as a domain of economic and strategic opportunity. Ministers acknowledged the establishment of the National Space Agency of Singapore and welcomed ongoing engagement with the Australian Space Agency, and recognised the successful convening of the inaugural Space Dialogue between senior officials in July 2026 as an important platform for advancing bilateral cooperation in the space sector. Officials exchanged views on topics of mutual interests, such as ensuring sustainable access to space, supporting industry growth, strengthening Earth observation capabilities for economic and societal benefits, and working together in multilateral and regional fora.
27. Ministers recognised the continued engagement between ANSTO’s Australian Synchrotron and the scientific research community of Singapore. Ministers noted the multi-collaboration efforts underway to not only expand the current use of the Synchrotron but also to explore the feasibility of a new Singapore-led beamline to be built and operated at the Australian Synchrotron for the benefit of both nations.

Deepening Friendships and Capabilities

28. Ministers recognised the unique friendship between the people of Australia and Singapore and welcomed progress made to deepen and strengthen ties across education and scholarships, public service, culture and the arts and tourism.
29. Ministers noted plans for the inaugural Ministerial Education Policy Dialogue to be held at a mutually convenient time and location. The Ministers reaffirmed the close and substantive exchanges between our public services, and looked forward to productive discussions between our senior public service leaders at the 10th Singapore-Australia Public Service Roundtable, which Australia will host in October 2026.
30. Ministers acknowledged the announcement of the inaugural Australia Award Scholarships on 17 April 2026 presented to Singaporean recipients during Minister of Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong’s visit to Singapore.
31. Ministers welcomed the ASEAN-Australia Centre as a practical platform for strengthening people to people links and institutional partnerships between Singapore and Australia, and across the region. Ministers noted the Centre’s support for exchanges, grants and training across education, culture and professional networks, and the participation of officials, researchers, founders and entrepreneurs from both countries in these programs. Ministers encouraged its continued contribution to deepening bilateral ties and ASEAN regional engagement.
32. Ministers encouraged continued cooperation in arts and culture. They welcomed the renewal of the Australia Singapore Arts Group (ASAG) partnership for a third term, strengthening cultural cooperation between the two countries. Ministers noted that Singapore will host the next ASAG meeting virtually in 2026, and the Cultural Leaders’ Forum and ASAG meeting in 2027.  Ministers were also pleased to note regular exchanges between Singapore and Australia’s cultural institutions, and encouraged continued cooperation in this area. They welcomed continued collaboration between Singapore and Australian institutions and arts groups, such as Creative Australia and the Singapore National Arts Council, the National Museum of Australia and the Singapore National Heritage Board, and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Singapore Symphony Orchestra, under their respective MoUs.
33. Ministers noted the upcoming ASEAN-Australia Centre-supported Water Spirits immersive exhibition, a flagship cultural diplomacy initiative delivered in partnership with the National Museum of Australia and First Nations communities from West Arnhem Land. Ministers noted that the exhibition, which is expected to commence touring Southeast Asia in 2027, will strengthen cultural and curatorial links, showcase First Nations stories, and enhance people-to-people connections.

Regional Cooperation and Global Developments:

34. Ministers exchanged views on regional and global developments, and the economic and security implications of global crises. They recognised the heightened geostrategic uncertainty, threats to the international rules-based order, and the intensification of strategic competition across all domains. Ministers emphasised the importance of continued dialogue, restraint, strategic reassurance, and adherence to international law as the foundations for preserving regional peace and stability. Ministers agreed regional and global security is a shared responsibility based on relationships, rules-based multilateralism, and resilience.
35.  Ministers highlighted that enduring partnerships are critical in navigating periods of uncertainty and disruption and reaffirmed the importance of close collaboration between Australia and Singapore in responding to global challenges.
36. Singapore looked forward to working closely with ASEAN Member States and partners including Australia to deliver substantive and meaningful outcomes as ASEAN Chair in 2027. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to uphold ASEAN Centrality through ASEAN-led mechanisms, including the East Asia Summit, ASEAN Regional Forum, and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus. They expressed their resolve to continue working together to support the practical implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), through tangible projects under the four priority areas of the AOIP.
37. Ministers emphasised the importance of an open, inclusive, transparent, resilient and rules-based architecture in the Indo-Pacific region, where countries and peoples can cooperate, trade and thrive, where international rules and norms are upheld, disputes are settled peacefully and in accordance with international law, and where all countries have the freedom to decide their future without coercion.
38. Ministers welcomed Australia’s role as President of Negotiations for COP31 and support for the Pacific to host the Pre-COP in Fiji with a leaders’ component in Tuvalu, and looked forward to working together to advance multilateral cooperation in support of successful outcomes at COP31.
39. Ministers noted that Singapore and Australia are partner economies in various multilateral fora such as the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the upgraded ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). They reaffirmed their support for the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core. 
40. The Ministers welcomed continued cooperation between Australia and Singapore to advance urgent reforms at the WTO so that it is able to address current and emerging global trade challenges, with a fully and well-functioning dispute settlement system that is accessible to all WTO Members. As co-conveners (alongside Japan) of the WTO E-Commerce Agreement (ECA), Singapore and Australia welcomed the adoption of the ECA with Interim Arrangements on the sidelines of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in March 2026, and looked forward to its entry into force. They also welcomed the entry into force of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, and the overwhelming support for the incorporation of the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement into the WTO legal framework. 
41. Ministers welcomed the progress made through RCEP, AANZFTA and CPTPP to deepen regional integration, promote greater regional trade and investments, foster innovation, and create growth opportunities. They reaffirmed their commitment to expanding RCEP and the CPTPP’s membership and promoting cooperation between the CPTPP and the European Union, and the CPTPP and ASEAN.
42. Ministers emphasised the importance of the right of unimpeded transit passage of vessels and aircraft in straits used for international navigation in accordance with international law as reflected in UNCLOS. Ministers urged all parties to uphold their obligations under UNCLOS and customary international law with respect to navigational rights and freedoms, including in the South China Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, a strait used for international navigation, as well as to ensure the safety and wellbeing of seafarers and ships in the region.
43. Ministers expressed serious concern over behaviour that increased the risk of miscalculation and unilateral actions that could threaten peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea. They emphasised the imperative for all States to resolve disputes peacefully in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 UNCLOS, without resorting to the threat or use of force or coercion. The Ministers emphasised the importance of any Code of Conduct in the South China Sea being consistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS, and not prejudicing the legitimate rights and interests of all nations, including those not party to these negotiations.
44. Ministers expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. Ministers reaffirmed their strong support for the ASEAN-led efforts on a sustainable resolution and called on the Myanmar authorities to make tangible progress on implementing ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus. Ministers denounced the continued acts of violence against civilians and the destruction of public facilities. They called for concrete action to immediately halt indiscriminate violence, exercise utmost restraint, ensure the protection and safety of all civilians and civilian infrastructures, release all those unjustly detained, including political prisoners, and engage in inclusive national dialogue amongst all stakeholders. They also called for the safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance without discrimination and the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel.
45. Ministers called on Russia to end its war against Ukraine, which is a violation of international law, including the UN Charter. The sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected.

Conclusion

46. In conclusion of the 15th SAJMC, Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing cooperation across all pillars of the CSP 2.0 and agreed to continue working closely to promote regional peace and stability, economic resilience, and shared prosperity.