From joint crisis management missions to tackling cyber threats, the EU and Australia are strengthening their defence and security partnership.
The EU and Australia cooperate on modern security challenges including cyber threats, disinformation, and hybrid risks. This partnership strengthens stability in the Indo-Pacific and supports international law.
The EU and Australia signed a Crisis Management Agreement in 2015, which allows Australian participation in EU civilian and military missions. Growing geopolitical instability has increased the need for closer cooperation from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
In 2025, the EU and Australia agreed to expand cooperation to new areas such as cyber defence, maritime security, and countering foreign interference.
INTERESTING FACT
The EU has more than 20 ongoing civilian and military missions worldwide. Australia has contributed personnel to several, including EU efforts in Afghanistan, Mali, and the Horn of Africa.
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Security in a Polarised and Interconnected World
The EU and Australia established a Security and Defence Partnership in 2026 which provides a structured framework for cooperation on shared security challenges.
The EU and Australia coordinate to address disasters and emergencies globally.
Australia is a partner to the EU Civil Protection Mechanism which plays a global coordinating role to improve cooperation and facilitate preparedness in cases of humanitarian and natural disasters.