Strategy, Policy, and International Group

Strategy, Policy, and International (SP&I) Group is Defence’s key policy development function to protect and further Australia’s national interests.

The Group actively informs and influences Government decision-making and, in implementing policy decisions, provides critical support to military operations, Defence capability development and the achievement of broader national security outcomes.

SP&I collaborates actively with key agencies across government and has a rigorous internal contestability process to ensure their policy advice is firmly bedded within broader government priorities and resources.

Divisions

Defence Trade, Regulation and AUKUS Advanced Capabilities Division

Defence Trade, Regulation and AUKUS Advanced Capabilities (DTRAAC) Division advances Australia’s strategic interests through the:

facilitation of international industry collaboration
defence trade and innovative approaches to financing for defence exports
regulating the export of strategic items and knowledge
leading the acceleration of AUKUS advanced capabilities with a particular focus on near-term warfighting objectives.

International Policy Division

International Policy Division provides strategic-level policy advice to the Australian Government on the central issues of Australia's defence policy, including international defence relations and Australian Defence Force operations.

National Defence Strategy Division

The National Defence Strategy Division sets out the Australian Government’s strategic framework to guide the significant and urgent changes required to transform Defence’s capability, force posture, force structure, acquisition, recruitment and international engagement.

Pacific Division

The Pacific Division provides policy direction and program delivery to deepen Defence’s engagement and collaboration with partners across the Pacific. The division also works with key regional institutions to maintain peace, security and prosperity within the region.

Strategic Policy Division

Strategic Policy Division develops policy, military strategy and strategic planning and advice for the Australian Government, senior Defence leaders and other government agencies on the strategic implications of defence and national security matters.