Politics Now Is Australia more than a middle power?
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Oct 2, 2025 Matthew Knott, Foreign Affairs and National Security correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, joins the discussion on Australia's evolving global role. He explores Prime Minister Albanese's recent international trip, highlighting Australia's increased ambition in Middle East diplomacy. Knott critiques Albanese's speech at the UK Labour Conference for its partisan tone. He also discusses the implications of international relationships, including AUKUS and social media initiatives, amid rising global complexities.
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Australia Aims Above Middle Power
- Australia is positioning itself beyond a traditional "middle power" by actively engaging in Middle East diplomacy and post-war discussions.
- Matthew Knott reports the PM met key regional leaders to insert Australia into post-conflict conversations.
Recognition To Gain A Seat At The Table
- Recognising Palestine was used strategically to get Australia "in the room" on Middle East diplomacy and post-war planning.
- The government pairs that stance with meetings across Jordan, UAE and France to shape reconstruction discussions.
Balancing Allies To Maximise Influence
- Australia is aligning with modern progressive democracies while keeping the US alliance, creating a central diplomatic role.
- Matthew Knott says that balance places Australia at the centre of international coalitions.