Country Report: Australia; A New Frontline State?

Abstract

In a context of rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Australia's defense policy has become increasingly assertive. Given the political and technological transformation underway, policymakers consider geography no longer to be a sufficient buffer for their country's security. They now consider Australia a 'frontline' state, should there be a conflict in the Indo-Pacific. For Germany and for Europe - key US allies and partners in the region - it is important to gain a better understanding of the strategic dynamics driving Australia’s defense decision-making processes as well as the implementation of those decisions.