The strategy takes the long view of how to build a high-spending, maritime-focused defence force of the future. But there are some shortcomings in the government’s vision.
As well as her interviews with politicians and experts, Politics with Michelle Grattan includes “Word from The Hill”, where she discusses the news with members of The Conversation’s politics team.
This year’s talks had a noticeable shift of tone, reflecting the new Australian government. They include an emphasis on climate action and an invitation to Japan.
For the PM, having the bilateral relationship begin to stabilise and move to a more constructive footing culminates a very successful first six months on the world stage.
the government on Monday will point to 28 major defence projects running a total of more than 97 years late, as it highlights pressures it faces on the budget
Australians are becoming more fearful in an insecure world, and want to see the country armed up, favouring more defence spending and the planned acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines.
Elections where a national security threat have been a major talking point have historically played well for incumbent governments. But this time is different.
“Well, the boss has got the bug, so you’ve got me.” Labor campaign spokesman Jason Clare fronted the media the morning after Anthony Albanese tested positive for COVID, and the contrast didn’t go unnoticed
Whether the late senator’s treatment was unfairly harsh or part of the tough business of politics depends on who you ask – and in public life, the line between the two can be very fine indeed.
The Morrison government has gone hard on accusing Labor of being China’s “pick” at the federal election, and in doing so is leading the country down a dangerous path.
In its mirroring of the US position, the government is indicating it believes China needs to have its wings clipped, while Labor has taken a different view.
The Abbott government is under pressure to increase its overall humanitarian refugee intake, as Labor declared Australia should offer a one-off additional 10,000 places for refugees.