Albanese lands in Jakarta to seal landmark Australia-Indonesia security pact

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has arrived in Jakarta ahead of talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, where the two leaders are set to formalise a major new security treaty between Australia and Indonesia.

The agreement - the Australia-Indonesia Treaty on Common Security - has been described by the prime minister as a "watershed moment" in the bilateral relationship, marking a significant expansion of defence and strategic cooperation between the two neighbours.

In a joint statement, Mr Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the treaty would elevate cooperation "to a new level, for the benefit of our shared security and the stability of the region".

"This treaty represents a major extension of our security and defence partnership and demonstrates that the Australia-Indonesia relationship is as strong as it has ever been," Mr Albanese said.

While the full details of the pact - first announced in November - have not yet been publicly released, it is expected to deepen collaboration across defence, strategic planning and regional security at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty.

Senator Wong is accompanying the prime minister and will hold talks with her Indonesian counterpart, Sugiono, during the visit.

Indonesia has traditionally maintained a policy of non-alignment, seeking to avoid entanglement in global conflicts. Australian officials have emphasised that the treaty respects that position while strengthening cooperation between the two nations.

The visit marks Mr Albanese's fifth trip to Indonesia as prime minister and his second since winning re-election in 2025. Indonesia was also the first country he chose to visit after retaining office, underscoring the central role Jakarta plays in Australia's regional strategy.

"This treaty is a proud moment in the shared history of Australia and Indonesia," Mr Albanese told parliament before departing Canberra.
"It will ensure we work together to shape a better future, securing our shared place in the world and delivering the best outcomes for our people."

Senator Wong said the agreement represented the most significant step forward in the relationship in three decades.

"In uncertain times, this treaty demonstrates the importance we place on our partnership and the deep respect we have for one another," she said.