Sea Control Sea Control 531 - Girt by Sea with Dr. Bec Strating and Dr. Joanne Wallis
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Jun 27, 2024 In this engaging discussion, Rebecca Strating, a Director at La Trobe Asia, and Joanne Wallis, an expert in international security, unpack their insights from the forthcoming book 'Girt by Sea.' They explore Australia’s unique maritime geography and its implications for security in the Pacific. The duo delves into the challenges posed by China's influence, illegal fishing, and climate change. Emphasizing a need for unified national strategies, they advocate for proactive diplomacy and cooperation to navigate this complex security landscape.
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Sea Blindness Paradox
- Australia, an island nation, is often described as "sea blind".
- This paradoxical label reflects a historical disconnect between Australia's maritime geography and its security priorities.
Four Pillars of Australian Security Policy
- Australian security policy, since 1788, consistently exhibits four key characteristics: reliance on distant security guarantors, fear of abandonment, uncertainty about regional engagement, and championing a rules-based order.
- These themes are rooted in Australia's unique geography and its historical context as a British colony.
Shifting Defense Priorities
- Australia's defense priorities have historically favored land forces, influenced by past conflicts and the US alliance.
- However, recent strategic reviews acknowledge the maritime domain's growing importance, with plans for nuclear submarines and an expanded surface fleet.
