Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

There has never been a more important time for Australia to stand side by side with our near neighbours. Together, we are tackling the scourge of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we continue to address COVID-19 at home, we are standing by our region and assisting them to manage shared health, security and the economic impacts of COVID-19. Being there for each other in challenging and uncertain times goes to the heart of our Pacific Step-up. Australia's COVID-19 response builds on the Morrison government's Pacific Step-up, which continues to grow regional economies, which continues to build resilience and which continues to enhance regional stability through your defence, policing and border security cooperation. The Pacific is our home, and Australia's engagement in the Pacific remains one of our highest priorities in these challenging times.