ASEAN

Australia sees ASEAN at the centre of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region, where sovereignty is respected, and all countries benefit from strategic balance. Australia recognises ASEAN centrality as key to the region's stability and security, and we are committed to supporting ASEAN's leadership. Our relationship is based on friendship, mutual trust, shared interests and a positive vision for our region's future.

Australia became ASEAN's first Dialogue Partner in 1974. On 4-6 March 2024, Australia held the ASEAN–Australia Special Summit to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations. Together, leaders shared their vision for our region, and discussed ways to strengthen our practical cooperation, from deepening ties between our people and economies, to boosting our cooperation on education, and environmental issues. 

For more detailed information about Australia and ASEAN's relationship, visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Outcomes summary

A Partnership for the Future

At the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations, Australia announced a range of new and expanded initiatives. The Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Anthony Albanese MP and ASEAN Leaders agreed the ASEAN-Australia Joint Leaders’ Vision Statement and the Melbourne Declaration, setting out our practical cooperation and shared aspirations for the future.

Submission to the review of Schedule 9 of the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Act 2025

In May 2025, the interim head of the Defence and Veterans’ Services Commission made a submission to the Review of Schedule 9 of the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Act 2025 by the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee. Schedule 9 establishes the Defence and Veterans’ Services Commission from 29 September, to inquire and report on issues relating to systemic reform to improve suicide prevention and wellbeing outcomes for current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members.

Secretaries Board communique: 18 June 2025

The Secretaries Board met at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to discuss the following matters. 

The Board welcomed Dr Steven Kennedy PSM, Secretary, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet as the new Chair of the Board.

Strategic outlook

The Board discussed government decisions, priorities, emerging risks and strategic issues.

The Board received an update on geostrategic issues from Ms Jan Adams AO PSM, Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Ms Celia Perkins, Deputy Secretary, Department of Defence. 

Implementation of Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide Recommendations

Support is available

Please be aware this website contains information about suicide that may be distressing. Please take care of yourself as you read it and ask for help if needed. Information and contact details for support available in Australia are listed below.

The Royal Commission examined systemic issues and common themes in suicide and suicidality amongst Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and veterans. This included suspected suicides and lived experience of suicide risks.

Instrument of appointment of Ms Jenny Wilkinson PSM

Public Service (Secretary of the Department of the Treasury) - Appointment  2025

I, the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council and under subsection 58(1) of the Public Service Act 1999, appoint Jenny Wilkinson PSM as the Secretary of the Department of the Treasury for a period of five years commencing on 16 June 2025.

Dated 12 June 2025

[Signature of Sam Mostyn AC]

Sam Mostyn AC
Governor-General

By Her Excellency's Command

Instrument of appointment of Dr Steven Kennedy PSM

Public Service (Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet) - Appointment  2025

I, the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council and under section 58 of the Public Service Act 1999, appoint Dr Steven Kennedy PSM as the Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for a period of five years commencing on 16 June 2025.

Dated 12 June 2025

[Signature of Sam Mostyn AC]

Sam Mostyn AC
Governor-General

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