Defending Democracy with Malcolm Turnbull Episode 2: Is there a 500-pound panda in the room?
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Apr 2, 2025 
Hugh White, an expert in strategic studies, Geoff Raby, a former ambassador to China, and Heather Smith, a veteran in national intelligence, delve into Australia's pressing security challenges. They critique historical foreign policy misjudgments and explore the nation's reliance on U.S. protection amidst rising Chinese influence. The discussion emphasizes the need for Australia to adopt a multifaceted strategy, engaging more deeply in multilateral relationships while balancing its own defense capabilities for regional stability.
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False Assumptions
- Australia's strategic policy relies on the US leading the global order and containing China.
- These assumptions are based on America's post-Cold War decisions, which are now proving false.
China's Rise
- China's rise as a regional hegemon is inevitable due to its size, location, and economic strength.
- Focus on analyzing China's intent, capacity, and constraints, rather than simply labeling it a threat.
Past Errors
- Australia has a history of misjudging threats, like the purchase of F-111 jets against Indonesia.
- These past failures should encourage more careful analysis of current threats.
