The joint statement was issued by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Panetta along with Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Kevin Rudd and Australian Minister for Defence Stephen Smith.

It says in part that "in the event of a cyber attack that threatens the territorial integrity, political independence or of either of our nations, Australia and the United States would consult together and determine appropriate options to address the threat."

The two governments "recognize the value of close collaboration with allies and like-minded nations on cyber issues, and are working together closely to address mutual threats and challenges emerging in and from cyberspace," the statement says.

"This represents a new operational dimension the US Alliance. It is appropriate we take this step on the 60th Anniversary of the Alliance," Rudd said in a written statement.

in Network World's Wide Area Network section.