Australia Opens Inquiry into AUKUS Submarine Treaty

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The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has opened submissions for its inquiry into the Nuclear-Powered Submarine Partnership and Collaboration Agreement, a key component of the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The treaty, signed in Geelong on 26 July 2025, formalises collaboration between Australia and the United Kingdom to support Australia’s acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. It represents one of the most significant defence agreements in Australia’s recent history and is central to the broader AUKUS partnership announced in 2021.

Committee Chair Lisa Chesters MP said the inquiry was an important opportunity for Australians to engage with the national debate on defence and security. “This inquiry is a vital opportunity for the public to engage with one of the most significant defence and strategic agreements in Australia’s recent history. We encourage stakeholders to share their views,” she said.

The Committee is seeking submissions from individuals, defence experts, academics, industry representatives, and other stakeholders. Submissions should address the treaty’s provisions, its implications for national security, regional stability, and its impact on Australia’s long-term defence capabilities.

The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, 2 September 2025, and they can be lodged directly through the Committee’s official website.

The agreement builds on the wider AUKUS framework, which focuses on enhancing defence cooperation among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Alongside submarine development, AUKUS includes commitments to advanced technology sharing, cyber capabilities, and joint training initiatives.

Australia’s move to acquire nuclear-powered submarines has been positioned as a measure to strengthen deterrence and ensure security in the Indo-Pacific region. While the treaty formalises cooperation with the United Kingdom, further agreements with the United States are also expected to underpin the program.

The Committee’s review will form part of the parliamentary treaty-making process. Following the inquiry, recommendations will be made to Parliament before the treaty proceeds further in the ratification process.

With growing attention on strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific, the outcome of this inquiry is likely to shape debate over Australia’s future defence posture and international security commitments.