The Latest Breaking News from Pat Conroy

The new sensors are able to detect aircraft and missile threats at greater ranges and with increased accuracy than current systems.

There are calls for urgent action after Australia dropped to 41 out of 50 countries and organisations in the Aid Transparency Index, revealing a "worrying trend" that has the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade close to hitting the bottom of the list, alongside Saudi Arabia and China.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his Papua New Guinean counterpart James Marape may have been speaking on the sidelines of the Pacific Islands Forum on Thursday. But what they said will be felt across the playing fields of the NRL and regional geopolitics.

Pacific leaders optimistic about Albanese government’s climate action and willingness to engage, but major sticking point remains

The federal government says its position on dealing with China remains unchanged, despite China listing four demands in order to improve ties.

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In meeting with Penny Wong after G20 summit Chinese foreign minister says past Australian governments ‘root cause’ of strained relations

Potentially serious faults in Guardian-class patrol boats may force some countries to pause use of vessels

Numerous problems have been identified on Australian-built patrol boats gifted to Pacific Island nations, prompting the Defence Department to issue advice on how to "minimise risk" for the countries that operate them.

"Australia is a partner that won't come with strings attached, nor impose unsustainable financial burdens."

Australia will establish a defence school to train Pacific island militaries, Canberra's new Pacific minister said, amid intensifying competition for security ties and as Beijing seeks to host a rival meeting to the main regional group, the Pacific Islands Forum, next month.