23 May 2013

Deciphering Australia’s Defense Budget

As this brief points out, the just-released Australian Defence White Paper's call for increased defense spending came as a surprise to many. But does it express a genuine policy commitment on the part of the Gillard government, or is it merely designed to provide the political 'wiggle room' it might need to pursue more concerted efforts in the future? After addressing this issue, the brief’s author then goes on to talk about the political motivations behind the White Paper, which could include pursuing an Australian presence in North Asian waters.

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