Australia–Indonesia Cooperation in Maritime Security (2017–2020)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E1/2026-09Keywords:
Maritime cooperation; Regional security; Australia–Indonesia; Non-traditional security challengesAbstract
Amid significant fluctuations in maritime security in the Asia–Pacific region during the 2017–2020 period, Australia and Indonesia intensified their cooperation to address both traditional and non-traditional maritime challenges. Grounded in shared strategic interests and Indonesia’s pivotal geopolitical position, the two countries established a cooperative foundation through policy dialogues, legal frameworks, and bilateral mechanisms. In practice, cooperation focused on joint patrols, maritime information sharing, capacity-building assistance, and training for maritime law enforcement forces, as well as coordinated responses to issues such as piracy, smuggling, and irregular migration. These activities contributed to strengthening regional maritime security and enhancing strategic trust between the two countries. Nevertheless, cooperation continued to face certain limitations stemming from differences in capabilities, strategic priorities, and political factors. Despite these constraints, Australia–Indonesia maritime security cooperation has played a significant role in regional stability and the evolving maritime security architecture.
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