Politics Now Why Dutton wants an election fight on defence
Apr 23, 2025
Peter Dutton is shaking up the defence game with a bold $21 billion spending plan just days before the election. As tensions rise with China and the Ukraine situation looms, the Coalition’s timing raises questions about voter impact. Heated debates flare up over Medicare, revealing the performative nature of politics. Meanwhile, surprising support for Dutton emerges within immigrant communities, indicating a shift in political sentiments. With a preference deal between the Coalition and One Nation, the landscape is changing — and fast!
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Coalition's Defence Spending Surge
- The Coalition aims to raise defence spending by $21 billion in five years, reaching 2.5% of GDP, pushing towards 3% in a decade.
- This aligns with allied expectations, especially from the US, signaling a significant commitment to national security investment.
Dutton's Tax-Funded Defence Plan
- Peter Dutton openly states defence spending will be funded by reversing a small recent tax cut.
- This honesty about tax increases situates defence as a priority worth personal cost to voters.
Late Defence Policy Risks Impact
- The Coalition's late defence policy reveal risks reducing its impact, compounded by delayed campaign clarity.
- However, timing around Anzac Day aims to leverage national sentiment for military focus.