Vanuatu’s security partners provide valuable support in training, infrastructure, equipment and logistics. Australia is Vanuatu’s principal security partner. Other important security partners are New Zealand, France, China, and the United States. The FRANZ network (France, Australia, New Zealand) provides disaster relief in the region. The Melanesian countries, notably Papua New Guinea and Fiji, provide training and other support. Given the ongoing concerns with the VPF, and the current upgrades now underway with the support of development partners, it would be timely to undertake two reviews: 1. In the first instance, and as soon as practicable, an independent Organisational Performance Study. The objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of policing in Vanuatu and its capabilities and functions; and to consider changes (positive and negative) in the state of policing, backed by year-on-year analysis. This will inform future planning and prioritisation for the VPF. 2. Secondly, a longer term Strategic Security Review of the VPF, under the oversight of the new National Security Council, leading to a new VPF Strategic Plan. This full review, the first since 1997, will examine the overall force in light of the external and internal strategic outlook and likely challenges, as well as any other matters flowing from the National Security Strategy. Public consultation for this far-reaching review will be valuable. Potential issues include the future role of the VPF, VMF and the PMV, and the case for and against separation of the VMF; the future VPF force structure and needs; acquisition priorities (for example a landing craft for the PMV) in light of resources; and other issues such as Vanuatu’s role in peacekeeping missions, and the need to expand the VPF’s role in the protection of critical infrastructure and government assets. 26 Part 2. Building a happy and secure future