Australia's Indian Ocean Territories: Like nowhere else in Australia

From endemic wildlife to iconic turquoise waters, the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) are like nowhere else in Australia. Located over 2600km from mainland Australia, the IOT, comprising Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, are home to some of our most remote communities – with unique challenges and opportunities. 

UNIQUE SIGNIFICANCE

In a region that has some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, the location of these external territories is of strategic importance to Australia, and how we continue to build stronger ties with our Indo-Pacific partners.

The IOT play a key role in supporting India’s international space project, with Cocos (Keeling) to host a critical temporary satellite tracking facility for the Gaganyaan manned spacecraft missions.

Utilising the islands’ unique position on the missions’ flightpaths represents a new phase in Australian and Indian space cooperation, fostering closer collaboration on space research, exploration and development.

RESILIENCE, ADAPTABILITY & PREPAREDNESS

As Minister for Territories, I am focused on building on-island capacity, which starts with utilising the resourcefulness of local communities to respond to local challenges.

Our recent investment in Innovative Agricultural Trials demonstrated the benefits of growing produce on-island, which would reduce the reliance on importing fresh food.

Our expansion of the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility’s remit to cover the IOT will support unlocking more opportunities at our doorstep. 

With climate change and natural disasters front of mind in the IOT, the Albanese Government is assisting these communities with their resilience, adaptability and preparedness, by rolling out our Disaster Ready Fund. 

Extending the Government’s Energy Bill Relief Fund to the IOT – the first time non-self-governing territories have been able to access a Commonwealth Government rebate – also demonstrates our commitment to easing cost-of-living pressures and supporting local businesses to grow.

A TRUE NATIONAL TREASURE

And, of course, this region is critical to the defence of our nation, which is why the Albanese Government is investing in Australian Defence Force bases across our north, in addition to infrastructure improvements for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands airfield, to better support maritime operations. 

From strengthening our bilateral relations, supporting multilateral defence activities and offering travellers from around the world a unique experience, the diversity of the IOT cements this region as a true national treasure.

It is home to some of the world’s most precious environments, deep cultural history, and opportunities that the Albanese Government does not want to pass by. We will continue working with communities in the IOT and key stakeholders to leverage the potential of this region, and to support a sustainable future.