Marles and US defence chief agree to accelerate military presence in Australia

Australia and the US will expand their military partnership. Defence Minister Marles and US Defence Secretary Hegseth agreed to speed up US military forces at Australian bases.

Why it mattersIt strengthens Australia's defence partnership with the US and shapes security in the Indo-Pacific region.

AustraliaAustralia will host an increased US military footprint on its soil, affecting defence spending, regional strategy, and Australia's role in Indo-Pacific security.

Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au

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Australia's defence spending hits 2.8 per cent of GDP

Australia has lifted defence spending to 2.8 per cent of GDP by NATO measure. This is the country's largest peacetime increase. It puts Australia ahead of most NATO countries.

Why it mattersThis spending increase deepens Australia's military partnership with the US. Both nations are working together to improve defence in the Indo-Pacific region.