Rather than "toughen up the need for parliamentary democracy in our region" (presumably the democracy, not the need) we needed to do a lot more about our own defence. But, our useless politicians did not, and it is probably too late late now.

Throwing good money after bad is no solution. We are paying for SIs next election!

That the current PM was outraged by the offer speaks volumes about SI democracy and the would be if he could be dictator for life tells us what the real issue is and what the only real stumbling block is, i.e., Chinese money and "leader" who can be bought?

Our solution needs to be a little 50 calbre lead pill right between the peepers or nuclear missiles aimed at the above! And any Chinese military base that close to mainland Australia!
Alan B.