European Union: European Union and Australia signed Security and Defence Partnership

On 18 March 2026, the European Union (EU) and Australia signed the Security and Defence Partnership. The agreement establishes a framework for the two parties to exchange expertise on their respective cybersecurity frameworks and share information to prevent, deter, and respond to malicious cyber activities. The agreement includes provisions for regular consultations on artificial intelligence (AI), including its responsible use in security and defence contexts. Furthermore, the parties will share best practices and strategies to counter hybrid threats and foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). This cooperation extends to a deepening of exchanges on legislative and regulatory measures intended to address vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, energy production, and democratic institutions. The partnership also outlines a commitment to bilateral and multilateral exchanges regarding the security and resilience of disruptive technologies, including research security. Additionally, the EU and Australia intend to build cooperation in space security through a dedicated dialogue. Both parties will also coordinate at the multilateral level to advance the implementation of the United Nations (UN) framework for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace and participate in the context of the UN Convention against Cybercrime. For the EU, texts will go through the necessary internal procedures before the Commission will put forward its proposal to the Council for the signature and conclusion of the agreement. Once adopted by the Council, the EU and Australia can sign the agreement. Following the signature, the agreement requires the European Parliament's consent and the Council's decision on its conclusion for it to enter into force. Once Australia also ratifies the Agreement, it can enter into force.