Government pledges $600 million to tackle meth and cocaine trafficking in the Pacific

The Federal Government is offering $600 million to support a maritime crackdown in the Pacific region to stop illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines reaching Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will discuss the proposal at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau on Wednesday, as drug trafficking surges in the area.

In 2026, 17 tonnes of illicit narcotics have been seized in the Pacific, up from 5.5 tonnes in 2025.

Criminal syndicates are using new tactics to avoid detection from authorities including submersibles.

Albanese believes individual police forces have been working hard but greater coordination is needed.

Leaders are pushing for a proposal called Waga Moana, which means sturdy canoe, a region-wide maritime security response to the booming drug trade.

Australia’s funding package includes; enhanced aerial surveillance, greater coordination of border and customs services, money for Fiji’s Police, stronger laws and the Australian Federal Police will enhance its work with authorities in Central and South America.

If endorsed, the plan involves enhanced information sharing, using existing patrol boats Australia has gifted Pacific nations, the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre in Samoa and the Vuvale Maritime Essential Services Centre in Fiji.

“That’s why it’s in Australia’s interests to work with our Pacific partners to combat organised crime,” he added.

“For the good of every country in the region, including our own – we need to work together to stamp out the illicit drug trade.”

Pacific Affairs Minister Pat Conroy said drug trafficking was having a “devastating impact on Pacific communities.”

“This initiative responds to the calls of regional leaders to do more, and to step up regional coordination to address this scourge.”