Anthony Albanese says "we protect what matters most" as Australia launches UN Security Council bid

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese opened his nation’s campaign for a non‑permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council while in New York, after meeting Apple chief Tim Cook in California. He said the government intends to bring a perspective that respects all voices and safeguards core interests, and he linked Australia’s historic role in founding the UN to its desire to amplify the concerns of smaller states. Foreign Minister Penny Wong added that the aim is a world where every country can determine its own future, emphasizing rule‑based security, civilian protection, artificial‑intelligence governance and climate action as key priorities. The bid, which targets a two‑year term beginning in 2029‑30, will be decided by a secret ballot of UN members in June 2028.