Australia probably takes into account Taiwan's proximity and economic size but China is economically and politically vastly more important.

Not offending China is highly important - more important than improved Taiwan relations.

Either Taiwan is part of China or it isn't.

If it isn't, then it's up to us and the Taiwanese what sort of relationship we should pursue with each other. No business of the thugs in Peking.

If it is, then it is proper for us to recognise the government in Taipei as the only government in all of "China" legitimised by elections and the Peking thugs as mere rebels.

That is, if Australia is to be a voice for the right of the people of each country to run their country as we claim and cherish the right to run ours.