New Zealand and Australia strengthen defence science cooperation

New Zealand and Australia are strengthening cooperation in defence science through the signing of a new Innovation, Science & Technology Statement of Intent.

The statement formalises deeper science collaboration between New Zealand's Defence Science and Technology (DST) and Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG). 

The agreement identifies three areas of cooperation to address innovation, science and technology challenges and deepen collaboration:

• Integration will strengthen collaboration through activities including experimentation, wargaming and interoperability initiatives.

• Upskilling through visits and personnel exchanges will increase opportunities for short-term visits and personnel exchanges to share expertise and strengthen the defence science workforce.

• Defence Science Partnering will expand collaboration across Defence, industry and academia to harness the broader innovation ecosystem.

New Zealand Chief Defence Scientist Dr David Galligan and Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist Professor Tanya Monro signed the statement during the annual Five Eyes Science and Technology Principals meeting hosted by New Zealand this week.

Dr Galligan welcomed the signing of the statement.

“New Zealand and Australia each bring unique strengths in defence science and technology. This Statement of Intent will help us combine those strengths more effectively to address shared challenges and deliver practical outcomes for Defence.”

Professor Monro also welcomed the signing of the statement.

"Australia and New Zealand share a longstanding partnership and a strong commitment to advancing science, technology and innovation in support of national security,” Professor Monro said.

"This Statement of Intent provides a practical framework for our defence science organisations to deepen collaboration, share expertise and pursue areas of mutual interest.

"By strengthening connections between our people, organisations and broader research communities, we can build on our complementary strengths and deliver greater impact together."

With the statement now signed, a framework has been established that will support DSTG’s and DST’s pursuit of closer collaboration. 

The agreement supports implementation of the Operationalising the Australia-New Zealand Alliance: Anzac 2035 – Closer Defence Relations Statement, which was signed by the Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and New Zealand Minister of Defence Judith Collins.