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The China think tank attacked by Wolverines

Jul 9, 2024

Investigative journalist Margaret Simons uncovers the downfall of China Matters, a key think tank, due to anti-China politicians called the Wolverines. They discuss defunding, accusations of espionage, and the government's response to alternative viewpoints on China.

21:21

Creator website

Episode guests

Margaret Simons

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

China Matters defunded due to anti-China sentiment within Australian politics.

Closure of China Matters raised concerns about limited understanding and intellectual diversity in Australian policy circles.

Deep dives

Unpacking the Influence of China Matters

China Matters, a once prominent and pro-engagement organization, faced significant criticism and eventual defunding by the Morrison government. This scrutiny aligned with a shift towards tougher stances on China within Australian politics, including the banning of Huawei and enhanced foreign interference legislation. The group faced attacks from a coalition of politicians known as the Wolverines, who opposed China's influence and interference in Australia. The closure of China Matters highlighted the changing dynamics and concerns surrounding Chinese engagement.

Intro

2min

Evolution and Challenges of China Matters

4min

Anti-China politicians known as the Wolverines and their stance on China Matters

2min

Controversy Surrounding China Matters

6min

Exploration of Government Actions on Alternative Viewpoints and Ongoing Issues in Australia

3min

There's a shadow world beneath Canberra, fed by the defence, foreign affairs and security communities, and it is hugely influential in how the government responds to our biggest geopolitical challenges.

Margaret Simons has spent decades keeping a close eye on this world. Recently, the story of one think tank, China Matters, caught her attention.

The group, dedicated to bettering Australia’s understanding of China, was defunded during a time of aggressive posturing towards the superpower and talk of war.

Today, investigative journalist and contributor to The Monthly Margaret Simons on why this influential think tank came undone, and how a crew of anti-China politicians called the ‘Wolverines’ led the attack.

Socials: Stay in touch with us on Twitter and Instagram

Guest: Investigative journalist and contributor to The Monthly Margaret Simons

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