Disinformation and extreme weather the greatest risks

June 30, 2025

There are growing calls for Australia to boost defence spending – but is it wise or necessary? As Julian Cribb points out, the “lust for conquest, self-aggrandisement and dominion” from some world leaders is diverting attention and resources from the far greater threat of climate change.

In January, the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved the Doomsday Clock to 89 seconds to midnight — the closest it’s ever been — citing not only the risk of nuclear war but also escalating climate change and the spread of disinformation.

The World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Risks Survey, based on over 900 expert responses, ranks “Misinformation and disinformation” as the top short-term risk, and “Extreme weather events” as the leading long-term threat. In contrast, “State-based armed conflict” ranks lower.

These assessments echo former defence chief Admiral Chris Barrie’s view that climate change poses a greater threat to Australia than China. Given global military spending has hovered around 2.2% to 2.4% of GDP for decades, Labor’s defence target of 2.3% by 2033-34 is balanced – especially since GDP is expected to grow a further 24% by then.