International policy and national security

To improve the lives of all Australians, we support the government to promote and protect Australia’s interests across the foreign and national security policy domains.

PM&C provides advice to support the government's consideration of foreign and national security policy. We use coordinated, whole-of-government, and whole-of-nation approaches to meet the strategic challenges Australia faces.

Against the backdrop of intensifying strategic competition, PM&C supports initiatives which promote Australia’s interests, and deter and defend against any actions that could damage them.

We also support work with international partners to:

  • tackle global challenges
  • increase trade and investment opportunities
  • uphold international rules
  • keep our region stable
  • help Australians at home and abroad.

The International and Security Group oversees foreign and national security matters from within PM&C.

Latest news

Ursula von der Leyen smiling and leaning toward a koala sitting in a eucalyptus tree at Taronga Zoo.
International engagement

Visit to Australia by the President of the European Commission

Their Majesties the King and Queen of Denmark stand side by side, smiling, in front of Uluru in Australia. The red sandstone monolith rises in the background under an overcast sky, while dry grasses and red earth surround the couple in the foreground. The King wears a navy shirt and light trousers, and the Queen wears a long skirt, patterned blouse, and a wide-brimmed hat.
International engagement

Visit to Australia by Their Majesties The King and Queen of Denmark