In 2026, Australia and Japan celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation (Friendship and Cooperation Treaty). The Friendship and Cooperation Treaty was initiated under Prime Minister Whitlam, and signed in Tokyo on 16 June 1976 by Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser and Prime Minister Miki Takeo.
The Friendship and Cooperation Treaty formally recognised friendship, shared interests and interdependence as core principles, and established a framework for further cooperation. The treaty also extended most-favoured-nation treatment beyond trade in goods to include investment and migration — an important step in broadening economic ties.
The Friendship and Cooperation Treaty supported the continued expansion of the Australia–Japan relationship. Today, Australia and Japan enjoy a deep and wide-ranging relationship, underpinned by significant two-way trade, investment and strong people-to-people connections. Australia and Japan cooperate across a wide range of areas to support a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.
The 50th anniversary will focus on elevating the Australia-Japan Special Strategic Partnership, which was established in April 2015, as well as redefining cooperation for the next 50 years and engaging the next generation of leaders.
There are a number of events planned to celebrate this milestone in 2026 – please check the DFAT website for all the latest event details