A world split asunder

The real-time feeds of Russian attacks in Kyiv and Kharkiv bring home the brutal reality of what Putin is doing to people who dared live in democracy on his doorstop.

Chinese chequers

The Liberal Party was as guilty as Labor of courting China in the past, but whoever wins the next Federal election will need a clear eyed view of Chinese intentions and work with our allies to counter them.

Making our own luck

Though COVID and China continue their threats to our internal health and external security, Australia is entering the new year in much better shape than a year ago.

Made in Australia

From covid vaccines to guided missiles, it’s important that Australia develops domestic production capacity to reduce our resilience on uncertain global supply chains.

Strengthening intelligence collaboration

This is an extraordinarily rich if difficult time to be in the intelligence community, whether in Australia or in our key allies and partners.

Lack of speed kills

As Australia begins to develop nuclear powered submarines to combat the growing threat of the Chinese navy, we also need to increase innovation across all aspects of defence to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

The AUKUS nuclear submarine deal shows we’re serious about China

The embrace of nuclear hunter-killer submarines and the new AUKUS partnership are a recognition of the fact that the threat we face from China is equally long-term. Changes of tone or shrewd diplomacy won’t deter aggression, but strong alliances and modern equipment just might.

Reopening to the world beyond COVID

Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Peter Dutton’s flight path on the way to Washington for the annual AUSMIN meeting with their American counterparts provides an insight into Australia’s policy directions and relationships as we look to open up to the world over 2022.

The big lesson from Afghanistan

After the chaotic, violent withdrawal of US, NATO and Australian forces and nations from Afghanistan, it’s time to consider the big lessons for Australia.

Was the USA reckless or ruthless in its Afghanistan withdrawal?

Biden meant what he said when he confirmed the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, so China would be foolish to assume he doesn’t mean what he says in facing up to their challenge in the Pacific and beyond.

The cutting edge

To face the threat posed by China, Australia must fast-track new technology into the hands of our sailors, soldiers and aviators.

Fighting back

There can be no return to a trusting ‘win–win’ relationship with Beijing at the same time as we are being spied on and robbed blind by its hackers. It’s time to fight back.