Southeast Asia Strategy and Development (SSD)

Australia is invested, engaged and committed to Southeast Asia. The Australian Government has made deepening our engagement with the region a priority.

Australia and the countries of the Mekong subregion share a vision for an open, inclusive, secure and prosperous region. We are longstanding and committed neighbours and partners, with a robust economic relationship and deep government and people connections.

DFAT is committed to upholding ASEAN centrality, including through our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, supporting the Mekong subregion and over $500 million in new ODA and non-ODA initiatives announced at the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit.

Southeast Asia is central to Australia’s national interests and our partnerships are deep and long‑standing. Australia is linked to Southeast Asia by more than geography. In addition to our strong family, business, education, and tourism links, we share a vision for a region that is stable, prosperous, and respectful of sovereignty.