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Australia will gain access to Papua New Guinea's defence infrastructure and soldiers under a new agreement that will ensure each government provide mutual defense if either is under attack.

“Our primary security collaboration is with Australia, a stance that is acknowledged... No other diplomatic ties have been affected,” stated the nation's head of state.

This agreement will allow up to 10,000 nationals of Papua New Guinea to enlist in the Australian Defence Force. They will also have the opportunity to obtain Australian citizenship.

Agreement Specifics

Referred to as the Pukpuk Treaty (which translates to "this reptile" in local dialect), the bilateral agreement is the most recent in a line of deals forged by regional states and powers competing for a defence footprint in the Pacific zone.

This agreement can deliver a strong response and, similar to the crocodile, its strength demonstrates the joint capability and preparation of the defence units for war.

A military assault on any signatory would be “dangerous to the other's peace and security” so the two are to “address the collective risk”.

Enhanced Collaboration

The pact also covered expanded partnership around online security and electronic combat.

Previously, the national security leader indicated that the agreement would mean that defence personnel from each country would be “totally integrated”.

• First, to limit outside power in PNG by guaranteeing it does not have the same level of access to infrastructure.
• Additionally, to address the nation's recent difficulties enlisting new personnel.
• Lastly, the pact also communicates a point to other global powers.

The positive outcomes of the deal were multi-faceted, as stated by a regional security expert.

“PNG has an oversupply of able-bodied citizens who are willing to do this kind of work,” the expert noted, noting that numerous individuals would be drawn to the possibilities of living in Australia and possibly obtaining citizenship.

Regional Implications

The treaty represents an element in a described as hub and spokes network of military treaties in the region – with the nation at the centre and Pacific states being the spokes.

There are concerns that the treaty undermines PNG's inclusive and neutral international approach by linking PNG with Australia on every defence issue.

The two nations need greater clarity on the expectations, obligations and commitments.

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

This treaty would help update PNG's army, bringing a notable improvement in both material and confidence.