New phase for Australia-Indonesia cooperation on justice and security
Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop, Attorney-General George Brandis and Minister for Justice Michael Keenan today announced a milestone for Australia's cooperation with Indonesia on justice and security issues, the Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Justice Phase II (AIPJ II).
"The AIPJ II recognises the common challenges faced by our two countries – and the opportunities we have to collaborate ever more closely to overcome those challenges." Minister Bishop said.
The announcement of the AIPJ II, valued at up to AUD 40 million over five years from 2017 to 2021, followed today's successful third meeting of the Indonesia-Australia Ministerial Council on Law and Security in Jakarta. The meeting was attended by the Attorney-General, Minister Keenan and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Cyber Security Dan Tehan.
"After our very productive discussions this morning on Australia-Indonesia cooperation on law and security issues, the announcement of the new partnership shows our commitment to working closely together at all levels of government." said the Attorney-General.
The AIPJ II will support key Australian and Indonesian institutions to continue close cooperation on law, justice and security issues, such as the Australian Federal Police's crucial work with the Indonesian National Police, and collaboration between the High Court of Australia and the Supreme Court of Indonesia.
"Justice and security are an essential part of cooperation with Indonesia, a high performing police force, transparent judiciary and access to justice are essential pillars for a fair and free society." Minister Keenan said.
The AIPJ II will build on the first Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Justice including by providing assistance to Indonesia's judicial institutions, building capacity to prosecute money laundering and criminal asset confiscation cases, and developing the investigative capacity of the Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission.
The Australian Government is pleased to continue to partner with Indonesia in our collective efforts to counter violent extremism in our communities, including developing and sharing best practice in challenging terrorist propaganda and building on successful diversion and rehabilitation programs, especially in prisons.
Australia also welcomes continued collaboration with Indonesia to tackle transnational crime and improve access to justice and legal services.