The National Security Podcast Australia decides 2025: national security priorities
May 29, 2025
David Andrews, a senior manager at the ANU National Security College, discusses the Albanese government’s continuity and its focus on the National Defence Strategy 2026. Will Leben highlights the importance of planning for uncertainties due to climate shocks and US policy disruptions. Bec Strating advocates for a pragmatic approach to balancing relationships with China and the US while addressing AUKUS challenges. Together, they explore Australia’s independent defense obligations and the need for cohesive political leadership in national security planning.
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Stability First, Strategy Next
- The Albanese government will prioritise stability and continuity in national security policy while building reform foundations.
- The next 12 months will centre on preparing and releasing the National Defence Strategy 2026 to guide investment and posture.
Prepare For Climate And US Shocks
- Experts prioritised climate shocks and US policy disruptions as top preparedness risks in the Pulse Check.
- Will Leben emphasised the cross-cutting need to plan for uncertainty across government machinery.
Pragmatic Engagement With Major Powers
- Australia will continue pragmatic engagement with China: cooperate where possible, disagree where necessary, and act in the national interest.
- Bec Strating suggests applying a similar independent-minded framework to Australia’s relationship with the US.