Australia Fiji to Post Defence and Police Attachés in Canberra

Fiji is set to strengthen its security ties with Australia by deploying a Police Attaché and a Defence Attaché to its High Commission in Canberra. The move was among the key outcomes approved by Fiji’s Cabinet following Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s official visit to Australia in early July.

Rabuka’s visit, which took place from July 1 to 7, 2025, focused heavily on advancing defense and policing cooperation between the two Pacific nations. His government confirmed that the attachés will serve as direct links between Fijian security agencies and their Australian counterparts, enabling closer coordination on issues of regional stability and security.

As part of the discussions, Cabinet also endorsed work on a new Fiji–Australia Security Agreement. While details of the agreement are still being developed, it is expected to formalize collaboration in defense operations, joint training, policing initiatives, and broader regional security matters.

Officials in Suva have highlighted that the initiative reflects Fiji’s commitment to deeper engagement with Australia, particularly in addressing shared challenges across the Pacific. This includes cooperation on maritime security, disaster response, and countering transnational threats.

Australia and Fiji already maintain strong defence and policing links, with both countries participating in regional exercises and humanitarian efforts. The planned deployment of attachés represents a further step in formalising these ties. Analysts note that this move underscores the strategic importance of Fiji in Australia’s regional security framework, especially given the growing geopolitical competition in the Pacific.

The attachés in Canberra are expected to play a central role in facilitating direct communication, expediting joint planning, and strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms. Fiji’s government has described the decision as a proactive measure to ensure the nation remains a reliable partner in advancing Pacific security.

For Australia, the agreement signals a reinforcement of its long-standing partnership with Fiji, as both governments seek to maintain stability in the region. The deployment of the attachés, coupled with the forthcoming security agreement, reflects a mutual commitment to a coordinated approach on defence and policing matters.

By formalising these arrangements, Fiji and Australia are positioning themselves to respond more effectively to emerging security challenges while strengthening the resilience of Pacific nations.