February 2026 Senate Estimates Briefing Pack 1227/25/26 – Document

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This Senate Estimates briefing pack from February 2026 outlines Defence's National Defence Strategy development and the "Strategy of Denial" framework. The document confirms work is underway on the 2026 National Defence Strategy, scheduled for delivery later that year, as part of the Government's commitment to biennial strategy updates. Key points include the 2024 National Defence Strategy's focus on deterrence against adversaries while supporting regional security; the 2024 Integrated Investment Program providing "generational uplift" in Defence capabilities; and planned defence spending nearly doubling from approximately $59 billion in 2025-26 to an estimated $104 billion by 2034-35. The Strategy of Denial aims to deter coercion and maintain regional balance. Lead witnesses are Hugh Jeffrey (Deputy Secretary Strategy, Policy and Industry) and Amy Hawkins (First Assistant Secretary National Defence Strategy). Minor redactions are present under s47E(d) and s22 provisions, limited to contact details.