Year 10: Military - US/Australia Alliance

Who is Steven Smith and what important role does he play for the Australian Government?

Steven Smith is the defence minister of Australia. He plays an important role for the Australian government as he is in a very high position in the cabinet and has a huge influence on the decisions of the government. The Australian minister for defence administers his portfolio through the Australian Defence Organisation, which is compromised of the Department of Defence and the Australian Defence Force.

What is the Brookings Institution where Mr. Smith delivered his speech?

The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, D.C. One of Washington's oldest think tanks, Brookings conducts research and education in the social sciences, primarily in economics, metropolitan policy, governance, foreign policy, and global economy

What role does the Australia/US Alliance play in Australia's 'strategic and security arrangements'?

The role of the Australia/US alliance plays a huge part in Australia's strategic and security arrangement because both countries rely and depend upon one another, particularly Australia on the US. If these arrangements were do change, drastic ramifications could occur

What is important about Australia's global location for this alliance?

Australia is located in the Asia-Pacific region. This is important because this region has become the "centre of gravity" for the world, in terms of economic, political, military and strategic influence.

What contributions has Australia made to this alliance for the last 50 years?

For the last 50 years, through the joint defence facilities in Australia, Australia have made a significant contribution to US national security by hosting or supporting some of the US's most sensitive and critical strategic capabilities

What did the minister say about the Australian companies who do business with the US?

The minister said 9000 Australian companies did business in the US. "They pay an average wage of $US70,000 ($63,490) per employee per annum and include your largest shopping-centre owner and two of your largest 20 banks," he said.

Why does the minister point out this information about this company? What does it highlight about the relationship between Australia and the US?

He points out these particular facts in order to highlight the economic power and importance of Australia in the US. It highlights that Australia is having a very positive impact on the American economy, and that the relationship should be continued.

What is the country central to Australia's relationships in the region?

China

What is Australia trying to foster with this country?

Australia had committed to developing strong and positive military and defence relations with China through dialogue and practical activities, Mr Smith told the institution.

"Australia wants, as the Chinese would say, China to emerge into a 'harmonious environment'."

Why do you think that this is important to Australia?

This is extremely important for Australia, particularly, in my opinion, for Defence and Economy. This is because China is emerging as the superpower of the world, and this would benefit Australia as China relies on the commodities Australia trades with them. It is important to maintain positive military and defence relations with China as to avoid negative contact with a force that is extremely powerful