New Zealand has announced it will explore participation in the newly signed mutual defence agreement between Australia and Fiji, known as the Ocean of Peace Alliance. This move comes as regional powers strengthen security ties in response to evolving geopolitical pressures in the Indo-Pacific.
The Australia-Fiji pact was signed on July 6, 2026, in Suva. It commits the two nations to consult on security challenges and to “act to meet the common danger” in the event of an attack on either party. This agreement follows a similar pact Australia signed with Papua New Guinea in 2025.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon welcomed the development, highlighting the strong existing bonds between New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji. “New Zealand and Australia share a close bond, with a military alliance that continues to go from strength to strength, and we also have a strong and enduring relationship with Fiji,” Luxon stated. He described engagement with the alliance as a “logical” step to promote a safer region.
Australia and New Zealand are already partners in the ANZUS treaty with the United States and the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network (which also includes the UK and Canada). These longstanding arrangements provide a foundation for deeper trilateral cooperation with Fiji.
Australia has been actively expanding its defence partnerships in the Pacific. Recent steps include a security agreement with Vanuatu and enhanced military cooperation with India, focusing on interoperability, information sharing, and personnel exchanges.
Analysts view these developments as part of a wider trend of middle powers in the Indo-Pacific forging closer ties to address security challenges, particularly amid concerns over China’s growing military presence and influence in the region. Australia has described its strategic environment as one of “permanent contestation” with China and sees partnerships with Pacific island nations as central to its approach.
New Zealand’s exploration of the Ocean of Peace Alliance is still in its early stages. If it joins, the pact could further consolidate security cooperation among Australia, New Zealand, and key Pacific island partners, contributing to regional stability efforts.
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