More than two centuries ago, with the arrival of the first colonizers on the shores of Australia, Australians experienced a sense of insecurity. Even during Australia’s period of development and the strengthening of its institutions, this sense of insecurity did not dissipate. Today, Australian anxieties are becoming increasingly acute. Forces are emerging in the country that support its recent rise. Australia has formed a union with the USA in the area of procurement and has strengthened economic ties with China.
The "Telegraph" newspaper hints that Australian insecurity could serve as a good starting point for the country. Today, each American ally has reasons for insecurity due to the presidency of Donald Trump. Additionally, the complex times have emerged for the countries trading with China, as China's economic growth is slowing down, and its leaders are striving for greater self-sufficiency.
The history of Australia’s foreign policy, described by the former diplomat and analyst Alan Hinges, is titled "The Fear of Abandonment: Australia in the World since 1942." This narrative discusses the shock experienced by Australia after the retreat of Britain, when the country was left only as a middle-ranking European power. Australia has made significant efforts to establish an alliance with the USA and has argued in favor of it being a partner ready to bear its share of responsibility.
Today, there is a reassessment of alliances, satisfying Trump’s interests in the capital of Australia, Canberra. In August, Australia invested $500 million to support the construction of submarines in the USA. This marked the beginning of the "AUKUS" plan, uniting Australia, the USA, and the UK in an alliance to counteract China’s naval power in the Indian and Pacific Oceans in the decades ahead.
The risk assessment has found its place in the context of the possibility of sending American forces, including through the President's office. There is an openness in Australia regarding the relative realization of the "AUKUS" project. In the works on strengthening the defense industry, including submarine construction and modernization of military bases in Perth, actions supporting the covert maritime operations of the USA and the UK are observed.
Mike Burgess, the head of Australian Intelligence, noted that the Australian army has become a target for foreign intelligence services due to participation in the submarine project. Risks of espionage and sabotage have been detected. Forces seeking information about military bases are aimed at the army through the internet.
