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The Australian nation will gain access to the Papua New Guinean military facilities and troops under a recently concluded agreement that will see 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,” affirmed the nation's head of state.

This agreement will allow as many as 10,000 PNG citizens to serve in the nation's armed forces. They will also have the choice to become Australian citizens.

Treaty Details

Referred to as the Crocodile Agreement (which translates to "the crocodile" in Papua New Guinean pidgin), the two-nation deal is the latest in a series of agreements concluded among regional states and powers seeking a security presence in the Pacific zone.

This agreement has the ability to bite and, like a crocodile, its bite force demonstrates the joint capability and preparation of the military for conflict.

A military assault on any signatory would be “a threat to the partner's stability” so each must “act to meet the common danger”.

Deeper Partnership

The deal also included expanded partnership around online security and electronic combat.

Previously, the national security leader indicated that the treaty would mean that the military units of both nations would be “completely unified”.

• Initially, to curb external influence in Papua New Guinea by making certain it does not have the equivalent entry to facilities.
• Furthermore, to tackle Australia's recent struggles building defence numbers.
• In conclusion, the pact also demonstrates a stance to international actors.

The advantages of the treaty were three-pronged, per analysis from a Pacific affairs specialist.

“There is a surplus of fit and willing individuals in PNG ready for such roles,” they said, stating that a significant number would be drawn to the opportunities of moving to Australia and possibly getting Australian citizenship.

Pacific Consequences

The treaty represents an element in a so-called centralized security framework of military treaties in the area – with the nation at the centre and island nations being the spokes.

Questions have emerged that the pact could weaken PNG's ‘friends to all, enemies to none’ international approach by associating PNG with Australia on all security matters.

The two nations need greater clarity on the foreseen results, responsibilities and assurances.

The pact also included annual joint military exercises which were about “strategic messaging,” to “demonstrate combined operational readiness and rapid response to regional dangers”.

The agreement would help modernise PNG's army, bringing a notable improvement in both equipment and confidence.