AUSTRALIA BEGINS CAMPAIGN FOR UN SECURITY COUNCIL SEAT

Australia has formally launched its campaign to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2029–2030 term, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announcing the bid during the UN General Assembly in New York. The country is seeking one of the two non-permanent positions available to its regional bloc and hopes to use the seat to participate more directly in international decisions on peace, security and other issues affecting its interests and the wider global community.

Albanese said Australia would seek to contribute to discussions on major international challenges and strengthen the voice of small and medium-sized countries at the United Nations. He said Australia expected strong backing from Pacific island nations and countries in Southeast Asia, while also pointing to the relationships it has developed with other world leaders as part of its campaign. The Australian government is presenting the bid under the approach of listening with respect, working with countries as equals and protecting shared interests.

The government said its priorities would include conflict prevention, protection of civilians, ocean and climate security, international cooperation and the development of safer digital systems. Albanese also identified rapid advances in artificial intelligence and the effects of climate change as major challenges likely to shape international affairs by the end of the decade. Australia has said a seat on the council would provide an opportunity to promote practical reforms and ensure that the views of smaller and mid-sized states are reflected in decisions on international peace and security.

Australia previously served on the UN Security Council for a two-year term that ended in 2014 and is now seeking another opportunity to join the 15-member body. The council has five permanent members — the United States, China, France, Russia and the United Kingdom — while the remaining 10 seats are held by non-permanent members elected by the UN General Assembly. Finland is also seeking the 2029–2030 seat allocated to the Western European and Others Group, while other regional blocs will put forward their own candidates.

The election for the 2029–2030 non-permanent members is expected to take place by secret ballot in 2028. Australia’s campaign comes as the government seeks to increase its involvement in international diplomacy and regional affairs, with Canberra highlighting its history as a founding member of the United Nations and its previous role in the organisation. If elected, Australia says it would focus on international cooperation, conflict prevention, protection of civilians and efforts to strengthen the rules and institutions governing global affairs.