Defence experts from the European Union and Australia come together to address shared security challenges at the Road to Schuman Forum
The European Union (EU) and Australia are reliable, predictable and values-based partners, sharing a commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law. As the interconnection between security in Europe and the Indo-Pacific becomes ever clearer, the EU is stepping up cooperation with partners in the region to translate shared values and interests into collective action.
The EU Delegation to Australia, in partnership with the National Security College, hosted the Road to Schuman Forum at Australian Parliament House on 22 October in the lead-up to the third Schuman Security and Defence Forum in Brussels on 17–18 November.
The event brought together over 175 European and Australian defence practitioners to discuss the shared security challenges facing both Europe and the Indo-Pacific.
We were honoured to welcome Finland’s Minister of Defence, H.E. Antti Häkkänen, as keynote speaker. The Minister shared his unique perspective leading the defence of a country that shares the longest EU/ NATO border with Russia. He emphasized the need to strengthen partnerships between like-minded countries and highlighted growing cooperation between Finland and Australia on the comprehensive security model and preparedness.
With the support of the National Security College, the Forum heard from a panel of experts on future cooperation under the EU-Australia Security and Defence Partnership. Moderated by Lieutenant Colonel Sharryn Parker, the panel featured Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, former Chief of Army, Ms Caroline Millar, former Australian Ambassador to the EU and NATO, Dr Eric Frécon, visiting fellow of the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and Professor Rory Medcalf, Head of the National Security College.
EU-Australia Security and Defence Partnership
The EU-Australia Security and Defence Partnership was signed in March 2026. As a tailor-made political framework that structures dialogue, coordination and practical cooperation across the full spectrum of security and defence, the Partnership builds on a solid foundation of robust political, trade and economic cooperation.
Security and Defence Partnerships are an indispensable pillar of the EU’s efforts to promote peace and security across the world. This is matched by a historic investment in Europe’s own security. The ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030 will enable up to €800 billion in additional defence investment by 2030. As trusted security partners, The EU and Australia are committed to strengthening cooperation as we enter a new era of security partnership.
About the Road to Schuman
The Schuman Security and Defence Forum, convened by High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas in Brussels on 17–18 November, will bring together senior decision-makers from more than 85 partner countries.
The Forum aims to facilitate high-level dialogue on security and defence issues between the European Union, its Member States, and international partners.
For more information, visit: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/schuman-security-and-defence-forum-2026_en