We need a "serious debate" about how we are going to defend ourselves. Before you chuck out the electioneering bumf that will be coming your way from now on, check to see if candidates even mention China and national defence among all the free stuff they want to bribe you with. If there is no mention of the China threat, ask them why.

Inviting your most potential enemies to live & invest in your backyard & enlighten them as to your innermost thoughts of how you'd deal with their relatives if they decide to take over, is not diplomacy, it's gross stupidity !
But hey, that's how Academic Bureaucracy works !

Sorry, Jeff. But I believe there's a serious debate being had, that understandably, doesn't include blabber mouths like your very opinionated self?

I believe we are very aware of the threats?

Especially after the genocide occurring in Ukraine, which doesn't seem to have troubled China too much? Just made their trade with Russia more profitable, short and long term?
Alan B.

In my opinion, more is achieved through co-operation, negotiation, diplomacy, but all parties need to come to the table. Here is a link to an interview that every thoughtful Australian should find alarming. Former Australian diplomat John Lander explains how the strategic dynamic that has triggered war in Ukraine is also at play in the Asia-Pacific, and risks pushing Australia into a war with our biggest trading partner thanks to provocations by Dutton and Morrison.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4JWcv2FQAg

I don't believe straight shooters Dutton and or Morrison are pushing us into a war with our biggest trading partner. I believe China will do as she pleases and justify it with all sort of B.S. Shoveled by the shipload? Ditto her current R's licking sycophantic spokespersons
Alan B.

Francesca said- "In my opinion, more is achieved through co-operation, negotiation, diplomacy, but all parties need to come to the table. "

Answer- Yes Chamberlain said so too- not that it was the wrong decision in it's context- and that's the point- it's all about context- sometimes you play nice sometimes not.