The Australian Government led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, will inject an extra A$14bn ($10.15bn) into defence over the next four years, according to its 2026-27 budget.
This new commitment follows the release of the 2026 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program.
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Over the decade, the government plans to invest A$53bn as part of efforts to address Australia’s long-term strategic requirements. These recent allocations are in addition to previously announced investments that now bring total additional funding to A$30bn in the forward estimates and A$117bn over ten years.
By 2035-36, defence portfolio funding is expected to reach A$887bn. This figure includes support for agencies such as the Australian Signals Directorate, Australian Submarine Agency and Australian Naval Nuclear Power Regulator.
Out of this total, A$425bn will go towards strengthening the Australian Defence Force’s self-reliance and regional deterrence, with the Royal Australian Navy set as a primary beneficiary.
The navy is scheduled to add 11 Mogami-class frigates from Japan and six Hunter-class frigates to expand its surface fleet. The planning also maintains interest in up to six large optionally crewed surface vessels, capable of carrying 32 missile cells each.
A further A$96bn is allocated to acquire nuclear-powered attack submarines. This represents the largest funding allocation for a single capability in Australia’s defence history.
Navy infrastructure will receive new investment as well. The Henderson Defence Precinct and the Nuclear-Powered Submarine Program are key projects identified for priority funding.
The government has set aside around A$5bn over the forward estimates and A$15bn over ten years for projects needing alternative financing, including defence estate upgrades and the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance enterprise.
According to the Albanese government, defence recruitment has reached its highest level in more than a decade. Job creation and supply chain activity are expected to follow from these investments.
The budget includes more than A$770m in response to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. This comprises A$169.7m over five years for higher allied health fees from July 2027, A$29.8m to establish a National Veterans’ Data Asset, and A$16.6m for an independent inquiry into military sexual violence from mid-2026.
The Defence Delivery Agency is due to commence operations on 1 July 2027, with a goal to improve delivery and value for money.
Last month, the Australian Government signed a contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for the construction of three enhanced Mogami-class frigates, chosen under the general purpose frigate (GPF) programme.
