Category: Australian News

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will welcome Their Majesties, The King and Queen of Denmark, to Australia from 14 to 19 March.

During their six-day visit, Their Majesties will visit the Northern Territory, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria and Tasmania, for a number of business and cultural engagements.

This will be Their Majesties’ fourth official visit to Australia, and their first since His Majesty The King’s ascension to the Danish throne.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“It is an honour to welcome Their Majesties The King and Queen of Denmark back to Australia.

“It is wonderful that the visit includes many parts of our great country, from the Northern Territory to Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, and of course Tasmania.

“Denmark and Australia are great friends, and together we are working to build a more sustainable, secure and peaceful future.

“This visit is an opportunity to deepen our cooperation across a number of shared interests such as sustainability, renewable energy and innovation.

“Their Majesties The King and Queen of Denmark have a very special connection with Australia, and I know Australians will welcome them.”

The Albanese Government is accelerating efforts to develop cutting-edge counter-drone technology, teaming with industry to drive innovation, while also updating Defence regulations to keep Australians safe.

A new industry panel has been established to advise Defence and other Australian Government agencies on counter small uncrewed aerial systems (CsUAS) services, enhancing Australia’s ability to detect, deter and respond to emerging drone threats.

The Albanese Government has also enacted the Defence Amendment (Counter-UXS Measures) Regulations 2025 to strengthen our national security by protecting ADF personnel, assets and facilities.

The amended Regulations give authority for Defence, in support of our law enforcement agencies, to detect and disable or destroy drones that are suspected of posing a threat to Australian Defence Force (ADF) assets and establishments.

Defence maintains a range of capabilities to engage with hostile drone technology, with the amendments set to better enable our capabilities to be employed in Australia where it is safe and reasonable to do so.

The Defence Project Land 156 Standing Offer Panel will support Defence and other Australian Government agencies in safeguarding critical infrastructure and operations within Australia.

The initiative represents a significant opportunity for industry to contribute to national security by competing for a diverse range of work across multiple Government agencies.

The first 28 companies selected to the Panel are:

• Advanced Design Technology Pty Ltd
• Anduril Australia Pty Ltd
• Australian Systems Research Pty Ltd Trading as ASR Defence
• Axon Public Safety Pty Ltd
• Beca Pty Ltd
• Codarra Advanced Systems Pty Ltd
• Cubic Defence Australia Pty Ltd
• DEWC Services Pty Ltd
• Droneshield Group Pty Ltd
• EPE OCEANIA Pty Ltd Trading as Explosive Protective Equipment (EPE)
• HENSOLDT Australia Pty Ltd
• HighCom Technology Pty Ltd
• Insitec Pty Ltd
• Integrated Frontline Services Pty Ltd
• JVAT Solutions Pty Ltd
• Leidos Australia Pty Ltd
• Key Options Pty Ltd
• L3HARRIS Space and Airborne Systems Australia Pty Ltd
• NOVA Systems Pty Ltd
• Protegas Australia Pty Ltd
• QINETIQ Pty Ltd
• Raytheon Australia Pty Ltd
• SAAB Australia Pty Ltd
• SME Gateway Pty Ltd
• Solinnov Pty Ltd
• SYPAQ Systems Pty Ltd
• Systems Planning and Analysis Australia Pty Ltd
• SYSTRA ANZ Pty Ltd

Additional suppliers will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“Counter-drone technology is critical to keeping Australia safe, and that’s why the Australian Government is ensuring that Defence and other Government agencies will have access to the best technology.

“This panel will help us to stay ahead of rapidly evolving drone and counter-drone technology.

“It will build on the contracts already announced as part of Land 156 to address the increasing threat of drones in modern warfare and will enhance Australia’s capacity to respond to emerging drone threats.”

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:

“Drones are swiftly becoming a tool of choice for malicious actors across the globe. These regulations will better enable ADF personnel here at home to protect themselves, their assets and the bases in which they operate, which is critical to ensuring we maintain a ready and deployable Defence Force.

“Australia already has sophisticated capabilities to detect and counter drones. The Defence Amendment Regulations will ensure those tools can be used safely and responsibly, so we can respond quickly to threats and keep our communities safe.

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will today officially open the new MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory, marking a major milestone for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and delivering a significant boost to Australia’s air and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Delivered under the $355.7 million Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Facilities Project, RAAF Base Tindal will serve as the home of the Royal Australian Air Force’s MQ-4C Triton aircraft.

The aircraft will be launched at Tindal and flown by Air Force pilots from a ground station at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. The remotely piloted aircraft system allows the Triton to operate at higher altitudes and remain airborne for longer periods than a traditional piloted aircraft, providing persistent surveillance across Australia’s maritime approaches. 

Designed by BVN and constructed by Sitzler Pty Ltd, the project commenced in May 2023 and includes a purpose-built hangar, working accommodation, upgraded airfield pavements and supporting infrastructure to enable sustained Triton operations.

The new facilities strengthen Defence’s Cooperative Program with the United States Navy and support the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which prioritises enhancing northern bases and investing in uncrewed systems to expand Australia’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities across the air and space domains.

Since 2022, the Albanese Government has invested over $2.8 billion in strengthening the ADF’s presence across Northern Australia, with 43 projects either completed or underway. Over $166 million in contracts for the Triton facilities project were awarded to Northern Territory businesses, including $7.5 million to Indigenous subcontractors, delivering a significant economic contribution to the region.

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:

“The completion of these facilities at Tindal is a critical step in strengthening our northern defence capability and is yet another example of our commitment to deliver the priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy.”

“This suite of new infrastructure will enable the ADF to operate advanced uncrewed aircraft from Australia’s north, enhancing persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance along our maritime boarders and across the broader region.”

“The project also deepens Australia’s Cooperative Program with the US Navy, by ensuring our forces can operate seamlessly together in support of regional stability.”

“Investing in critical infrastructure and advanced capabilities across our northern bases is critical to ensuring Australia is ready to face whatever challenges arise in the future.”

Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour:

“This project has delivered real benefits for the Territory, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and building skills that will continue to benefit the region well into the future.

“Working closely with local industry and Indigenous contractors has been central to this project, ensuring the investment strengthens not only Defence capability but also the local economy.

“RAAF Base Tindal is a valued part of the local community, and these new facilities will support the men and women who live and work here as they carry out their vital role.”

Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs & Northern Australia, Luke Gosling:

“The completion of the MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal reflects the Northern Territory’s central role in Australia’s national security. It recognises the work of our Defence personnel, the importance of our northern bases, and the strength of our local Defence industry in keeping Australians safe.

“This investment gives the ADF a powerful new capability to see further, stay airborne longer and maintain constant situational awareness. It will significantly strengthen our maritime surveillance and ensure Australia is better prepared to respond to emerging security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.”

The Australian Government will provide a further $50 million in humanitarian support to the people of Afghanistan to address the deteriorating situation there.

This brings the total humanitarian support provided to the people of Afghanistan since the fall of Kabul in 2021 to $310 million.

The people of Afghanistan are enduring one of the world’s worst protracted humanitarian crises, exacerbated by the Taliban’s failure to meet basic needs.

Almost 22 million people in Afghanistan are in urgent need of humanitarian support.

The Taliban’s oppression of women and girls, including limiting access to employment, medical services, education and public life, mean they are disproportionately impacted.

Australia’s humanitarian assistance is focused on supporting women and girls, prioritising food security, health services, and protecting dignity, safety and rights.

Australia works with established United Nations partners to ensure our support helps those in need, and not the Taliban regime.

This package will be delivered by agencies including the World Food Programme and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs’ Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong:

“The situation in Afghanistan is dire. The Australian Government remains firmly committed to supporting the people of Afghanistan, with a strong focus on women and girls.

“Australia’s humanitarian support will help save lives, alleviate suffering, and meet the basic needs of communities affected by the ongoing Afghanistan crisis.”

International Development Minister Anne Aly:

“This funding will help address urgent humanitarian needs and support vulnerable people across Afghanistan.

“Through this support, we’re continuing our work with trusted partners to ensure assistance is delivered safely, transparently and to those who need it most.”

The Victorian Greens have expressed solidarity with teachers considering industrial action, saying the Allan Labor Government’s $2.4 billion cut to public schools has pushed educators to breaking point.

Victorian teachers are now the lowest paid in Australia, with many able to earn around $15,000 more simply by crossing the border to New South Wales – nearly $300 a week at a time when housing, groceries and everyday costs are soaring.

The bulk of the $2.4 billion of funding that Labor has delayed would have gone towards boosting school staff and increasing staff salaries. 

The Victorian Greens secured an inquiry into public school funding which will begin at the beginning of this year. 

Victorian Greens spokesperson for Education, Dr Tim Read: 

“If you want to know why over 300 teaching positions are vacant, you can ask Jacinta Allan’s Labor Government. It’s no wonder when all teachers have to do is cross the border to NSW to get an extra $15k a year, that’s a pretty enticing argument. 

“The problem will only get worse unless we increase teacher salaries to match their NSW counterparts. Inflation and cost of living are soaring and our teachers deserve better, instead they’re being locked into the lowest salaries in the country. 

“Labor likes to call Victoria the education state, but right now they’re funding schools to fail. We can do better by our teachers, and by our kids.”

Greens spokesperson for communications and Senator for South Australia, Sarah Hanson-Young:

“It’s becoming clearer and clearer Australia needs an overhaul of the triple zero system. It is failing to keep up with changing technology and failing to deliver the most basic of essential services.

“It is a system that is clearly out of date, that relies on whether someone in an emergency has the right phone in their hand – putting people’s lives at risk.

“Sadly, and most worryingly, it’s the most vulnerable who are at the most risk – the elderly and the poorest in our community.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has concluded his first visit to Timor-Leste as Prime Minister.

In Dili, he met His Excellency President Dr José Ramos-Horta and His Excellency Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão.

The Prime Minister also addressed the Parliament of Timor-Leste, a great honour for Australia.

Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Gusmão signed a joint declaration establishing Parseria Foun ba Era Foun, which is Tetum for a New Partnership for a New Era.

The declaration is the first of its kind between our two nations and cements our growing economic, security and development partnerships.

Parseria is a demonstration of our shared commitment to:  

• an open, stable and prosperous region;
• cooperation, consultation and mutual respect for national sovereignty; 
• support Timor-Leste’s nation building priorities; and 
• strengthen community links. 

Prime Minister Albanese announced an Economic Cooperation Package for Timor‑Leste, which includes a further $8.2 million to support its participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the World Trade Organization.

The package also includes an $80 million Private Sector Development Program to support Timor-Leste’s economic diversification and private sector growth through access to credit, business services and marketing support. 

In addition, the Prime Minister announced a new $220 million Human Development Initiative to support the delivery of inclusive and high-quality health, education and disability services across Timor-Leste.

The Australian Government committed to allocate ten per cent of Australia and Timor-Leste’s combined future upstream revenue from the Greater Sunrise project, once finalised, to the Timor‑Leste Infrastructure Fund.

Timor-Leste President Ramos-Horta presented the Prime Minister with the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste in recognition of his contribution to strengthening ties between Australia and Timor-Leste and commitment to the prosperity of the Timorese people. 

Prime Minister Albanese:

“This marks a new era of cooperation between our nations.

“It reflects our longstanding friendship and sets out our shared vision for the future.

“It was an honour to visit Timor-Leste at this important moment in its history following its accession to ASEAN.

“Australia will continue to work with Timor-Leste to ensure this delivers peace, stability, and prosperity for the Timorese people and our shared region.”

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will today officially open the new MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory, marking a major milestone for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and delivering a significant boost to Australia’s air and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Delivered under the $355.7 million Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Facilities Project, RAAF Base Tindal will serve as the home of the Royal Australian Air Force’s MQ-4C Triton aircraft.

The aircraft will be launched at Tindal and flown by Air Force pilots from a ground station at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. The remotely piloted aircraft system allows the Triton to operate at higher altitudes and remain airborne for longer periods than a traditional piloted aircraft, providing persistent surveillance across Australia’s maritime approaches. 

Designed by BVN and constructed by Sitzler Pty Ltd, the project commenced in May 2023 and includes a purpose-built hangar, working accommodation, upgraded airfield pavements and supporting infrastructure to enable sustained Triton operations.

The new facilities strengthen Defence’s Cooperative Program with the United States Navy and support the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which prioritises enhancing northern bases and investing in uncrewed systems to expand Australia’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities across the air and space domains.

Since 2022, the Albanese Government has invested over $2.8 billion in strengthening the ADF’s presence across Northern Australia, with 43 projects either completed or underway. Over $166 million in contracts for the Triton facilities project were awarded to Northern Territory businesses, including $7.5 million to Indigenous subcontractors, delivering a significant economic contribution to the region.

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:

“The completion of these facilities at Tindal is a critical step in strengthening our northern defence capability and is yet another example of our commitment to deliver the priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy.”

“This suite of new infrastructure will enable the ADF to operate advanced uncrewed aircraft from Australia’s north, enhancing persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance along our maritime boarders and across the broader region.”

“The project also deepens Australia’s Cooperative Program with the US Navy, by ensuring our forces can operate seamlessly together in support of regional stability.”

“Investing in critical infrastructure and advanced capabilities across our northern bases is critical to ensuring Australia is ready to face whatever challenges arise in the future.”

Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour:

“This project has delivered real benefits for the Territory, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and building skills that will continue to benefit the region well into the future.

“Working closely with local industry and Indigenous contractors has been central to this project, ensuring the investment strengthens not only Defence capability but also the local economy.

“RAAF Base Tindal is a valued part of the local community, and these new facilities will support the men and women who live and work here as they carry out their vital role.”

Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs & Northern Australia, Luke Gosling:

“The completion of the MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal reflects the Northern Territory’s central role in Australia’s national security. It recognises the work of our Defence personnel, the importance of our northern bases, and the strength of our local Defence industry in keeping Australians safe.

“This investment gives the ADF a powerful new capability to see further, stay airborne longer and maintain constant situational awareness. It will significantly strengthen our maritime surveillance and ensure Australia is better prepared to respond to emerging security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.”

More than 2,000 jobs will be created in Western Sydney following a $508 million investment from the Albanese Government in two major capital works projects that are critical to Australia’s national security.

The two projects – part of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) plan – include the redevelopment of base facilities and the construction of new explosive ordnance storage at Orchard Hills.

Hansen Yuncken has been contracted to deliver upgrade works to Defence Establishment Orchard Hills, including for security and infrastructure and new training and working facilities at a value of $298 million, with expected construction completion in early 2029. This project is expected to create 600 direct employment opportunities for engineers, plant operators, and construction tradespeople.

ADCO Constructions will provide guided weapons and explosive ordnance storage buildings at a value of $210 million, with construction expected to be completed in late 2027, creating 300 direct jobs.

There are also indirect supply chain employment opportunities for 1,400 personnel in roles including steel and concrete production, material supply, fabrication, office fit-out, design, and logistics. The two projects are expected to contribute around $500 million directly into the NSW and Western Sydney economy by providing business for local subcontractors, suppliers, materials, labour and services.

The two separate contracts include Indigenous workforce, apprentice training and women in construction targets, as well as procurement commitments, designed to ensure significant economic benefits flow to the local community. 

The Orchard Hills base currently employs approximately 700 people, including contractors and Defence personnel. This work, part of the Government’s commitment of up to $21 billion under the GWEO plan, support the commitment in the 2024 National Defence Strategy to increasing Australia’s guided weapons and explosive ordnance capability. 

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“The Albanese Government is delivering a defence future made in Australia and creating thousands of well-paid jobs for locals with this major investment in infrastructure that is critical to our national security.

“This is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to establish a sovereign missile manufacturing industry which will make Australia more self-reliant and ensure the ADF has what it needs to keep Australians safe.” 

The Victorian Greens have expressed solidarity with teachers considering industrial action, saying the Allan Labor Government’s $2.4 billion cut to public schools has pushed educators to breaking point.

Victorian teachers are now the lowest paid in Australia, with many able to earn around $15,000 more simply by crossing the border to New South Wales – nearly $300 a week at a time when housing, groceries and everyday costs are soaring.

The bulk of the $2.4 billion of funding that Labor has delayed would have gone towards boosting school staff and increasing staff salaries. 

The Victorian Greens secured an inquiry into public school funding which will begin at the beginning of this year. 

Victorian Greens spokesperson for Education, Dr Tim Read: 

“If you want to know why over 300 teaching positions are vacant, you can ask Jacinta Allan’s Labor Government. It’s no wonder when all teachers have to do is cross the border to NSW to get an extra $15k a year, that’s a pretty enticing argument. 

“The problem will only get worse unless we increase teacher salaries to match their NSW counterparts. Inflation and cost of living are soaring and our teachers deserve better, instead they’re being locked into the lowest salaries in the country. 

“Labor likes to call Victoria the education state, but right now they’re funding schools to fail. We can do better by our teachers, and by our kids.”