Part 7/12:
Furthermore, concerns about Australia’s strategic position are compounded by the fact that China remains influential in the region. The growing perception is that Australia is seen as a “supporter” rather than an equal strategic partner, especially as Xi Jinping continues to assert dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The ongoing absence of the Australian prime minister visiting Beijing, contrasted with China’s many visits to Australia under previous administrations, highlights the imbalance. Parliamentarians warn that this signals a lack of strategic assertiveness and could undermine regional stability.