Part 5/8:
Addressing Strategic and Defense Issues
Beyond economic concerns, Cash stressed the importance of reinforcing Australia’s strategic alliances, particularly with the United States. She called on Albanese to more clearly articulate support for the US presence in the Indo-Pacific and the contribution of US forces to regional security. She pointed out the ambiguity surrounding the return of the Darwin port to Australian control, criticizing Albanese for not providing details about the timeline, framework, or process of this decision.
Cash also urged the government to bolster transparency and clarity on issues such as missile exercises, naval activities, and military cooperation. She viewed these as crucial to maintaining Australia’s sovereignty and regional security.