Think Tank Warns Australia’s Increased Defence Funding Not Enough to Eliminate War Risk
A warning from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute states that even with a $50 billion budget increase, the country will remain vulnerable to hostilities in the Indo-Pacific.
The institute’s latest report suggests that the government’s plan to boost defense spending by $50 billion over the next decade will not be sufficient for Australia to quickly address regional threats in the short term.
Immediate funding is required to ensure rapid capability enhancements for the Australian Defense Force in case of a sudden deterioration in the region, according to the report.
While the budget increases are aimed at strengthening the ADF’s future fighting capabilities, the institute emphasizes that additional funding is still necessary.
The institute acknowledges the shrinking warning time before any conflict and criticizes the lack of urgent action in defense investment despite the government’s rhetorical urgency.
If war were to break out within the next 10 years, the report warns that the ADF would essentially have to fight with its current force.
The report highlights that most major new capabilities in the government’s defense investment plan are decades away from full implementation, with only some short-term enhancements expected by the 2030s.
Report Emphasizes Growing Tensions with Beijing
Amid heightened aggression by Beijing, particularly concerning Taiwan, the report underscores the urgency to strengthen Australia’s defense capabilities.
In response, members of the Five Power Defence Arrangement have agreed to conduct more complex military exercises in the region involving advanced military technologies.
Defense Minister Richard Marles defends the government’s spending plans and strategic shift to focus on projecting Australian power further into the Pacific as necessary steps to address future challenges.
A spokeswoman for Mr. Marles highlights the additional $5.7 billion allocated over the next four years, emphasizing investments in naval capabilities and long-range strike capabilities.
Speaking at a security summit in Singapore, Mr. Marles clarifies that Australia aims to be a relevant player in the region without directly matching China or the United States in defense spending and capability.
Amid concerning actions by the Chinese military, both Australian and Chinese defense ministers met on the sidelines of the conference to discuss military interactions, although details of their conversation were not disclosed.
