Lowy Institute Highlights: Lowy Institute Debate | How to defend Australia
Aug 22, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jennifer Parker, a maritime defense advocate and former Royal Australian Navy officer, faces off with Sam Roggeveen on Australia's defense strategies. They tackle the need for a maritime focus in national security, emphasizing protecting vital trade routes. The conversation dives into the implications of China's rise and the complexities of the AUKUS partnership, stressing the balance between military independence and international alliances. Expect insights on adapting strategies in a rapidly changing Asia!
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Maritime Strategy As Central Defence Logic
- Australia should treat maritime strategy as the organising principle for national defence because we are an island nation dependent on sea lines of communication.
- Maritime strategy provides strategic manoeuvrability, protects critical seaborne supplies, and supports regional partners during crises.
Design Defence Around The Primary Threat
- Australia must design its defence around the most serious threat, which Sam identifies as China's ambition to lead in Asia.
- Defence planning should focus on preventing hostile bases near Australia and defending against attacks by ships, aircraft, and missiles.
Distance Is A Strategic Multiplier
- Distance creates exponential costs for an adversary to project force against Australia, making geography a strategic advantage.
- Enemies can overcome distance by using ships or by establishing bases near Australia, so Australia must deny both options.
