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Australia’s flagship regional engagement initiative, Indo-Pacific Endeavour, has officially launched for 2025, reinforcing the nation’s enduring commitment to peace, stability and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.
Now in its ninth year, Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE) 2025 will span six months, delivering an expanded program of defence and diplomatic engagements across Southeast Asia and the North East Indian Ocean.
The initiative will see Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and interagency representatives working alongside counterparts in Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Maldives, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
Led by Commander IPE 2025, Brigadier Jennifer Harris, CSC, this year’s program emphasises practical cooperation across a wide range of focus areas, including maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, English language training, peacekeeping, professional military education and the integration of emerging technologies.
“IPE25 is not just about military cooperation – it’s about building lasting connections through training, cultural exchange and shared experiences,” BRIG Harris said.
“We’re engaging in everything from maritime law and shared security challenges through to foundational cultural elements like faith-based engagement and music,” BRIG Harris added.
The 2025 iteration of IPE builds on the initiative’s evolution since its inception in 2017, offering a more flexible and tailored approach to regional cooperation. Moving away from traditional embarked task group models, IPE25 adopts a dispersed and agile format, allowing for longer, deeper and more meaningful engagement with regional partners.
Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones, AO, CSC, RAN, highlighted the strategic significance of this year’s engagements.
“This year’s IPE activities focus on practical cooperation, particularly in maritime enforcement and disaster response, which are critical for regional resilience,” VADM Jones said.
Throughout 2025, IPE will deliver workshops, knowledge exchanges and joint training across priority areas such as:
- English language instruction and professional military education.
- Human capital development and workforce planning.
- Maritime security and international maritime law.
- Disaster response and peacekeeping operations.
- Cultural engagement through faith, music and community initiatives.
- Integration of emerging and disruptive technologies.
VADM Jones added, “IPE25 is a clear demonstration of Australia’s commitment to openness, transparency and respect for sovereignty. Our activities are conducted in a safe, professional manner, reflecting shared security priorities and enhancing mutual understanding across our region.”
With its adaptive approach and whole-of-government coordination, Indo-Pacific Endeavour continues to serve as a tangible expression of Australia’s regional partnerships and shared commitment to a stable, sovereign and secure Indo-Pacific.
