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The Australian nation will obtain rights to PNG's defence infrastructure and soldiers under a freshly signed deal that will see the two countries support one another if either is under attack.

“We have told them that Australia is our security partner of choice and they understand our alliances here... Other aspects of our relations have never been compromised,” said PNG's Prime Minister.

This agreement will enable a maximum of 10,000 Papua New Guineans to enlist in the nation's armed forces. They will also have the opportunity to gain permanent residency in Australia.

Treaty Details

Known as the Crocodile Agreement (meaning "the crocodile" in Papua New Guinean pidgin), the mutual pact is the most recent in a line of deals forged by Pacific nations and countries seeking a defence footprint in the area.

The treaty has the ability to bite and, in the manner of this predator, its impact highlights the cooperation and preparation of the military for war.

Hostile action on either country would be “dangerous to the other's peace and security” so each must “act to meet the common danger”.

Enhanced Collaboration

The pact also included expanded partnership around online security and electromagnetic warfare.

Previously, the PNG Defence Minister noted that the agreement would mean that the military units of both nations would be “fully combined”.

• First, to limit foreign presence in PNG by guaranteeing it does not have the same level of access to resources.
• Furthermore, to resolve the nation's recent difficulties recruiting for its military.
• In conclusion, the agreement also sends a message to international actors.

The advantages of the agreement were comprising several aspects, per analysis from a regional security expert.

“PNG has an oversupply of able-bodied citizens who are willing to do this kind of work,” it was explained, adding that many people would be interested in the possibilities of living in Australia and possibly getting Australian citizenship.

Area Impact

The treaty represents an element in a described as centralized security framework of security agreements in the region – with the nation at the centre and regional countries being the allies.

Questions have emerged that the agreement undermines the nation's non-aligned international approach by associating the country with Australia on all security matters.

The two nations need more precise understanding on the anticipated outcomes, obligations and assurances.

The deal also included annual joint military exercises which were about “communicating intent,” to “highlight joint defence capacity and swift mobilization against outside risks”.

The pact would help enhance the nation's military, bringing a notable improvement in both material and esprit de corps.