PNG-Australia Defence Treaty tabled in Parliament

Prime Minister James Marape on Thursday formally tabled the Papua New Guinea–Australia Mutual Defence Treaty in parliament.

Members of the Opposition and other MPs have been given ten days to review the treaty, raise questions, and prepare debate points before the scheduled vote.

During this period, the treaty will be placed on the Notice Paper, marking the final stage of PNG’s ratification process.

Prime Minister Marape urged MPs to appreciate the strategic importance of strengthening bilateral ties with Australia, emphasizing that the agreement is about safeguarding national security and reinforcing regional cooperation.

The PNG-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty was signed on the 6th of October by both Australia and Papua New Guinea Prime Ministers, has now progressed to being tabled in parliament paving the way for both countries to legally bind the treaty.

Prime Minister James Marape, while presenting the Treaty in parliament, highlighted the key provisions in the Treaty, emphasizing Australia’s significant contribution to capacity building for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.

“This Treaty is PNG’s first formal comprehensive Defence Treaty with Australia and represents and represents a progressive elevation of Defence relations. It provides a modernized platform to enhance capabilities in our land force, air force and sea force while addressing the new dimensions of global security arena in electric magnetic warfare.”

Marape stated that the Defence Treaty represents an essential step in modernizing Papua New Guinea’s strategic Defence arrangements.

He noted that, if parliament ratifies the agreement, the strengthened alliance between PNG and Australia will deliver substantial and tangible benefits for both nations.

“Firstly, it will enhance national security through shared resources, intelligence and advanced capabilities to counter common threats. Secondly, increase deterrence – a collective Defence agreement provides a strong unified poster that deters potential aggressors. Thirdly, improve interoperability – with standardized procedures and joint training enables seamless and effective combine operations. Access to advanced technology, equipment and specialized expertise from Australia to PNG Defence Force and promoting regional stability.”

Mr Marape declared that the Defence Treaty will be remembered as a historic milestone for Papua New Guinea, bringing long-term benefits to future generations in both countries.

He urged the Opposition to recognize the treaty’s importance, encouraging MPs to raise questions and debate ideas during the review period before the final vote.

Once PNG’s parliament votes, the nation’s ratification process will be complete. The treaty will then await ratification by the Australian parliament.

With approval from both sides, the Defence Treaty will become legally binding, cementing a stronger security alliance between PNG and Australia.