Govt announces legislation to protect Defence bases from drones

In response to a growing number of drone incursions at Australian Defence Force (ADF) bases, the federal government has introduced legislation to protect Defence bases, personnel and critical assets, as well as to accelerate the development of new capabilities to keep Australians safe — including counter-measures against uncrewed systems.

The Defence Legislation Amendment (Accelerating Capability and Protecting Bases) Bill 2026 reforms the Defence Act 1903 to establish what the government describes as a modern legislative framework that meets Australia’s complex and challenging strategic environment. This includes a new framework to support Defence capability development and preparedness activities, enabling Defence, industry and trusted international partners to develop, test and introduce advanced capabilities more efficiently in Australia.

The government says the reforms are critical to implement the National Defence Strategy and progress work on Pillars I and II of AUKUS.

Importantly, the legislation provides Defence with an enduring legislative authority to conduct counter-measures against uncrewed systems (UXS, or drones) over sensitive Defence sites, including the ability to detect, identify, monitor, track and, where necessary, take action against UXS devices. It follows a number of recent UXS incursions at Defence bases, and at military bases in other similar jurisdictions globally.

The government says the counter-measures will be done where it is safe to do so and with appropriate safeguards in place. The bill also includes a number of additional oversight powers for the Inspector-General Australian Defence Force (IGADF).

“Australia’s strategic circumstances demand urgency, discipline and a relentless focus on delivering capability,” said Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. “These reforms will provide Defence with a modern legislative framework to accelerate capability development, protect our people and bases, and respond to emerging security threats.

“As we implement the National Defence Strategy, these reforms will help ensure Defence can work effectively with Australian industry and trusted international partners to deliver the capabilities Australia needs.”

The reforms will be subject to Parliamentary consideration before any changes take effect.

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