Media Release
16 April 2026
Today, Australia and Indonesia launched a new arrangement to strengthen joint efforts to combat human trafficking through the ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking program (ASEAN ACT), marking an important step in our bilateral and regional cooperation.
“By working together through ASEAN ACT, Australia and Indonesia are investing in practical, coordinated responses that support ASEAN led efforts to address trafficking as a transnational crime. The arrangement contributes to regional priorities under ASEAN frameworks and strengthens collective capacity to respond to emerging trafficking trends,” said Australia’s Ambassador to ASEAN, Tiffany McDonald.
This new partnership is timely as human trafficking continues to evolve in scale and complexity across the ASEAN region. It reflects the shared commitment of Australia and Indonesia to address trafficking and related serious and organised crimes and reinforces ASEAN and Australia’s efforts to address regional priorities under Australia’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN.
Police Commissioner General Syahardiantono, Head of the Criminal Investigation Department (Kabareskrim) of the Indonesian National Police stated, “The signing of the Subsidiary Arrangement with the ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking program is a strategic step for the Indonesian National Police in strengthening regional synergy to tackle human trafficking. Through this cooperation, we are committed to strengthening national capacity in law enforcement, the judiciary, and victim protection, in line with the implementation of the ASEAN Convention against Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children.”
“This partnership ensures that Indonesia continues to play an active and recognised role alongside other ASEAN member states in regional efforts to combat these crimes. Our focus remains on developing inclusive public policies and enhancing the capabilities of our personnel to ensure justice and safety for victims throughout Southeast Asia,” Police Commissioner General Syahardiantono added.
Australia remains committed to working closely with Indonesia and ASEAN to prevent human trafficking, reduce vulnerabilities to exploitation, and promote justice, security and resilience across the region.
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