Whole-of-government national security
Exercise Pacific Breakpoint
- Format
- Whole-of-government scenario in escalating phases
- Sector
- Defence · Government and national security
01The situation
A dramatic breakdown of law and order in the fictional Pacific island nation of Tribagi forces the Australian Government to confront an increasingly difficult strategic problem.
Following a contested election and allegations of foreign interference, protests escalate into widespread violence. Australian citizens and interests are placed at risk, and the local government requests international assistance. Then foreign naval forces begin moving into the region.
02The brief
Build strategic decision-making under uncertainty and time pressure, and strengthen coordination across defence, foreign affairs, policing, central agencies and overseas posts. The scenario also tests crisis communications and media management, explores competing national and alliance interests, and rehearses decisions on intervention, evacuation and the protection of Australians overseas.
What was tested
- Whole-of-government coordination
- Strategic crisis management
- Intervention planning
- Crisis diplomacy
- Alliance management
- Media and public communications
03How it ran
Foresight surrounds participants with simulated media reporting, social media, diplomatic cables, intelligence updates and breaking news. Exercise control responds to participant decisions in real time, so the crisis does not simply unfold around them. It unfolds because of them.
- 01InstabilityPolitical instability, protests and diplomatic pressure
- 02ViolenceCasualties and demands for Australian intervention
- 03ConfrontationForeign military forces arrive and the crisis turns geopolitical
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Which decisions does your team need to practise?
Every scenario here can be adapted to your organisation, or we can build one around the situation you are most concerned about.