The longstanding and generally positive relationship between Australia and New Zealand means meetings between the two countries’ leaders rarely spur significant announcements, let alone surprises.
However, a recent meeting between the leaders of Australia and New Zealand did produce one notable declaration. It was stated that any cyber attack against either nation could be considered an armed attack under Article IV of the ANZUS Treaty. This decision would be made on a case-by-case basis.
The statement emphasized that both countries would consult together under the ANZUS Treaty to determine appropriate options to address cyber threats. This serves as a clear warning to foreign government actors that attacks carried out through cyberspace may now be viewed as seriously as traditional military attacks.
Australian Prime Minister Albanese further highlighted the potential impact of cyber attacks, stating that they could have as significant an impact as traditional warfare by disrupting entire societies.
In addition to addressing cyber threats, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting shared interests and values, deterring threats to national security, and addressing issues such as foreign interference, espionage, misinformation, economic coercion, and malicious cyber activity.
They also discussed future defense procurement with a focus on interoperability. New Zealand Prime Minister Luxon expressed his country’s intention to fully align with Australia’s forces in order to enhance their collective capabilities.
Improving Economic Ties
In terms of economics, there were no major developments beyond acknowledging previous agreements such as the Closer Economic Relations (CER) agreement signed 40 years ago. The CER agreement has been expanded over time and reinforced by initiatives like the Single Economic Market (SEM), which aims to facilitate business operations across both countries.
The prime ministers acknowledged that rapid technological changes and geo-economic competition have reshaped the economic landscape. They committed to modernizing SEM by expanding it into emerging sectors of their economies while ensuring economic resilience within a wider regional context.
Both countries will collaborate on setting standards for genetically modified organisms and artificial intelligence regulations. They also welcomed progress in strengthening science and innovation engagement through bilateral cooperation agreements.
The one new initiative announced was an agreement for close coordination on Australia’s Future Made agenda alongside New Zealand’s plan for rebuilding its economy post-pandemic in order to support jobs, productivity, prosperity, and economic resilience.
Deportations Will Continue
Australia’s deportation policy regarding New Zealanders who commit crimes there was not mentioned in official communications but came up during a press conference after the meeting took place.
A journalist asked Prime Minister Albanese about his stance on sending criminals back to New Zealand. While acknowledging differing views between both nations on this issue,
Luxon stated they had agreed “to engage closely” regarding Australia’s approach but it is unlikely there will be another policy reversal given voter pressure leading up
to Albania government elections.