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One of Cash’s core criticisms was Australia’s lack of firmness in addressing China’s assertive actions. She lamented that Albanese did not publicly confront or condemn Chinese trade sanctions, military intimidation, or provocative military activities—such as China’s navies circumnavigating Australia and conducting live-fire exercises in civilian airspace.
Cash argued that a more assertive stance was necessary. While acknowledging the diplomatic need for caution—"you don't go there spoiling for a fight"—she contended that publicly raising concerns and holding China accountable would demonstrate strength. She believed publicly addressing China’s military maneuvers and sanctions would communicate to Beijing that Australia would stand firm on its sovereignty and regional security.