17 August 2026
Australian Parliament House, Canberra
Many Australians would have seen the devastation caused by the weekend's earthquake in Indonesia in Nusa Tenggara province, with at least 53 people reported killed and many more injured.
I want to join with the Prime Minister in expressing our deep sadness at the loss of life, and we extend our sympathies to all those affected by this tragic event.
We stand with the Government of Indonesia and people of Indonesia at this difficult time.
Today also marks 81 years of Indonesian independence, and we congratulate our friends in Indonesia on this anniversary.
President Prabowo often remarks that Australia was one of the early advocates for and champions of Indonesia's struggle for independence.
Australia announced de facto recognition of Indonesia's Nationalist Government on 9 July 1947, and shortly after, when the Dutch launched the first major military assault against the independent republic, Australia referred the matter to the UN Security Council.
The Council established a committee to settle the dispute, and Indonesia chose Australia as its representative—a singular honour.
We are proud of that history, because we know that Australia's security lies in our relationships and our region.
As the Prime Minister has said, there is no relationship more important for Australia than Indonesia.
Twenty years ago, our two nations signed the Lombok Treaty, which enshrines an unwavering commitment to mutual respect for each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Today, the ties between our countries as neighbours and partners are closer than ever.
The Treaty of Common Security, signed by our leaders in Jakarta in February, underscores our commitment to deepen and extend our partnership and to act together to secure the peace and stability of the region we share.
It is the basis of the next chapter in our relationship with Indonesia.
The Albanese Government has taken our ties with Indonesia to a new level, and we will continue to strengthen this important relationship in the years ahead.
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