Publication

This paper discusses Australia’s strategic shift towards an outgoing defense posture within Asia, and addresses the criticisms that have been leveled against it regarding national interest and the military’s capacity to deliver. The author says that both criticisms are found wanting and that, as a middle power, Australia will need to significantly contribute to coalition actions to help resolve regional crises and ensure Australian interests are protected overseas. He recommends increasing the joint capabilities required for a truly outgoing maritime strategy by turning the aspiration for a two percent GDP defense spending level into reality.