Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil will travel to Fiji this week for the 2026 South Pacific Defence Ministers' Meeting (SPDMM).
SPDMM provides a forum for regional defence leaders to enhance cooperation and drive Pacific-led responses to shared regional challenges. This year's meeting is the 11th iteration and is themed "Securing the Blue Pacific: Collective Responsibility, Resilient Futures".
Pacific defence leaders will discuss a range of issues, including maritime security, countering transnational organised crime and efforts to combat climate change. They will also consider practical initiatives to strengthen regional cooperation, including the evolution of the Pacific Response Group and closer coordination between Pacific security institutions.
SPDMM members are Australia, Chile, Fiji, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga. Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States will participate as observers, while representatives from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat will also take part in discussions.
Assistant Minister Khalil will be accompanied by Secretary of the Department of Defence, Meghan Quinn PSM and Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN.
Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:
"Australia's security is closely connected to the security of our Pacific family. SPDMM provides an important opportunity to work with our regional partners on the challenges we face together and strengthen our collective resilience."
"Australia is a partner the region can count on, which is why we will continue to listen to our neighbours and allies, support Pacific-led solutions and work together to help preserve a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pacific region where sovereignty is respected."
"From maritime security and transnational crime to climate resilience, this meeting is about turning shared priorities into practical cooperation and delivering tangible outcomes for the Pacific."
