2026 Australian National Defence Strategy

The following is the 2026 Australian Government National Defence Strategy, released on April 16, 2026. From the report Australia’s strategic environment The deteriorating trends in our strategic environment that were identified in the 2024 National Defence Strategy have broadened and intensified. New strategic challenges have emerged that further threaten Australia’s security and complicate the pursuit of Australia’s interests. We have entered a more dangerous and unpredictable era, characterised by a more overt struggle among states where thresholds against the use of force are being eroded. This will elevate risks to Australia’s security and prosperity over the coming decade. The United