The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) has commenced an inquiry into the Vanuatu-Australia Nakamal Agreement.
The Nakamal Agreement proposes to develop Australia and Vanuatu's security relationship by creating new obligations and commitments for both parties. These proposed obligations include Vanuatu committing to prevent its territory being used for foreign military bases and Australia increasing policing, development and disaster response assistance. The Committee will investigate whether the Nakamal Agreement furthers Australia's security interests in the Pacific.
Further information about the inquiry, including the full treaty text and National Interest Analysis, is available on the inquiry website.
The Committee invites interested individuals and organisations to make submissions addressing the Nakamal Agreement and its implications. Submissions to this inquiry are open until Wednesday, 29 July 2026, and can be lodged online via the Committee website. The Committee website also has detailed guidance on preparing and submitting submissions.
