A major defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea has failed to get over the line today, with the countries resorting to signing a communique in lieu of the actual document.

Australia will spend billions of dollars on new weapons and equipment for Papua New Guinea’s military under a landmark new treaty that will introduce new mutual defence arrangements and integrate the nations’ forces as never before.

Australia’s strategic outlook is darkening because of intensifying great-power rivalry between the US and China, according to a senior government official.

Locals are being warned that they have not heard the last of the explosions that set earthquake rumours running, as the Australian Army’s newest vehicles get put through their paces this week.

The Australian military will recruit noncitizens from Five Eyes countries with Australian permanent residency to boost troop numbers. This move aims to strengthen the military against future trade route blockages, said Defense Minister Richard Marles.

The arrival of new army capabilities shook homes throughout a north Queensland city this month. Now residents can see what they felt.