Hugh White and our post-American future
In his new Quarterly Essay, Hard New World, Hugh White delivers a devastating attack on Australia’s current defence policies.
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12 June 2025
Australia should use its power as an independent voice to push for peace
Australia occupies a unique position in the global landscape, bridging East and West both geographically and culturally. Yet it continues to underuse its potential as an independent, peace-building voice in international affairs.
12 June 2025
Ministerial responsibility and cabinet solidarity: Are they misaligned?
When Tony Abbott brought Malcolm Turnbull back into his shadow cabinet as communications spokesman in 2010, the then Opposition leader mocked Turnbull by calling him the inventor of the internet.
11 June 2025
Chinese flotilla fallout still has some attempting a beat-up
There is little or no evidence that China poses a direct military threat to Australia. However, the Sinophobes among political ranks and the commentariat are trying to ensure that Beijing will treat Canberra as a hostile entity.
6 June 2025
China and the art of war
I have a love-hate relationship with China. As a university student, I was entranced by China’s history and rich culture.
5 June 2025
In one awful decision, Albanese has revealed his do-nothing plan
It didn’t take long for us to discover what a triumphantly re-elected Labor government would be like.
4 June 2025
A carbon tax and some key policy challenges
A carbon tax will obviously help reduce carbon emissions and achievement of the net zero target, but it will also help raise the revenue needed to fund essential government services and promote Australia’s economic development.
4 June 2025
Move to revoke Darwin port lease is a political decision
Moves to force divestiture of the port of Darwin damage Australia's standing as a reliable investment destination and represents a triumph of foreign influence on policy.
3 June 2025
Pushing back with new urgency against neoliberalism
The era of unchallenged neoliberal dominance appears to be over, but it is too early to declare neoliberalism dead.
31 May 2025
Freer movement: Pacific priorities for Labor in its second term
Is the Labor Government going to take aid more seriously, and think more globally, in its second term?
31 May 2025
Beyond the sensible centre: A critical reflection on political imagination in the 21st century
The “sensible centre” is the most overpopulated address in Australian politics today.
30 May 2025
Why Australia should recognise Palestinian statehood
The question for the Australian Government is, how can we most constructively persuade Israel to change course?
29 May 2025
The Coalition splits, maybe not
If there was ever any question about the dire state of conservative politics in Australia after the Coalition’s comprehensive election rout, the self-indulgent posturing of the past week leaves no doubt.
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