Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says her portfolio's soon-to-be-released white paper will outline Australia's increased military presence to enforce law and order among neighbouring countries.
Speaking at an event at the Adelaide University Friday, she says Australia's first international policy in nearly 15 years comes as North Korea's nuclear threat and disputes in the South China Sea continue.
"The white paper is an opportunity for the government and for Australians to reflect on the foundations of our security and our wellbeing in an uncertain region and world," Ms Bishop said.
She said North Korea's disregard of the United Nations' resolutions for it to abandon its ballistic missile programs was the most egregious violation of international law at present time.
If Kim Jong Un's nuclear aspirations weren't controlled the global threat might extend to countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia, the minister said.
"Australia cannot stand apart from this regional threat to our security," Ms Bishop said.
"We must play an active role in defending the authority of the United Nations' Security Council and compelling Pyongyang back to negotiate a peaceful outcome."
Her comments echoed those of Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne earlier this year.
Mr Pyne said beefing up the navy's stocks with new submarines and frigates would give Australia a "path to sovereignty" and make it a regional power in the South Pacific.
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