With national elections approaching in Australia, politicians have been embroiled in spirited debate over foreign policy. The Pacific region has recently taken the lead as the center of gravity in these discussions. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has recently completed a quite remarkable tour of the Pacific. In just under three years, she has already traveled to 16 countries an astounding 21 times! This work is the antithesis of the previous government’s Foreign Minister Marise Payne. She only managed to fulfill 12 visits in her almost four years in office. Wong’s active engagement in the Pacific underscores a strategic pivot by the Albanese government, which aims to bolster Australia’s standing in a region increasingly influenced by China.
Wong has condemned the Coalition’s record in the Pacific, describing it as a mix of chaos and calamity. As she gears up for an election that could see Peter Dutton, leader of the opposition, taking office, Wong has raised alarm over Dutton’s climate policies. She argues that these kinds of policies would be damaging to Australia’s standing among countries in the region. In addition, she argues that if Dutton were to win, China might rapidly re-establish gains that Australia has recently fought to overcome.
Amidst these discussions, another key figure has emerged: Pat Conroy, the Pacific Minister. Conroy has kept up the sharp travel tempo, a reflection of Wong’s energy and dedication, and the reflection of an emerging collaborative spirit in Australian foreign policy.
The Stakes in the Pacific
Indeed, Penny Wong’s proactive approach to Pacific diplomacy is a refreshing deviation from her predecessors. In under three years, she’s traveled to 21 countries. During these travels, her goal is to deepen connections and address major challenges such as climate change and economic development.
Wong’s unequivocal rejection of the past government’s policies is welcome. In comparison, David Coleman, the coalition’s immigration and border protection spokesperson strikes a much more considered tone. Though taking a moment to celebrate the government’s accomplishments, he pushes back hard against the idea that these victories can excuse the government’s shortcomings.
“While Australia has concluded some agreements in recent years, there have been more occasions where nations have chosen a different path.” – David Coleman
It’s a troubling sentiment that echoes much of the recent Pacific leaderships’ concerns about Australia’s dependability as a partner. It might explain their reluctance to publicly raise red flags over Dutton’s infamous hot mic moment back in 2015. Wong’s language characterized it as “the most damaging Australian foreign policy blunder in the Pacific since the end of World War II.”
Tempers are flaring amid the climate policy debate. It’s a game for both of our major parties who are keen to show they can out protect Australia’s interests in the Pacific. Wong’s claim that Dutton’s climate policies would be “poisonous” to regional relations makes this a more urgent dialogue.
The Climate Debate
Climate change is an existential threat to the Pacific region, affecting not only local ecology but global diplomacy as well. Wong has been vocal in her opposition to Dutton’s plan to abolish subsidies for electric vehicles and home electrification. She contends that these steps would take Australia further away from its own Pacific neighbors.
With Dutton’s announcement, Australia has had two major breakthroughs in the civil use of nuclear energy. His critiques of Labor’s “renewables only” policies have drawn thousands of furious letters. His stance raises questions about Australia’s commitment to addressing climate change—a pressing concern for many Pacific nations facing existential threats from rising sea levels.
In defence against Dutton’s criticisms, Wong pointed out that Australia should consider what the world thinks of its policies.
“We know what [Dutton’s] reputation in the Pacific is like,” – Penny Wong
This acknowledgment highlights a growing awareness among policymakers about the need for Australia to be aligned with regional priorities and concerns.
Looking Ahead
As the election approaches, we know both of the major parties know that their foreign policy platforms could be the most impactful on voters. The Albanese government has already committed overwhelming amounts of political capital towards building relationships with our Pacific neighbours. Notably, they are committing more time to diplomatic efforts than the previous Morrison administration.
The Coalition is not without its criticisms. Some party members question whether Australia can effectively influence international climate policy while its own domestic strategies remain contentious.
“We are not the main game when it comes to international climate policy and pretending that we are ignores the real question of what China and India are doing, and doesn’t actually help the Pacific.” – Coalition source
In spite of these internal schisms, there is a general acknowledgment that no matter what, Pacific issues are best served when we are united. I think it’s important that we give credit when credit is due, a Pacific official told grist. Simultaneously, they urged Congress to make a proactive plan to address upcoming crises.
“We wanted to give credit where it’s due, and also save our efforts for future fights to come.” – Pacific official
The stakes couldn’t be higher as both parties work to establish their footing in this new and often confusing geopolitical landscape. China’s shadow casts a long influence over the region. Australia’s diplomatic strategy will not only win over voters at home, but set the tone for its ongoing bilateral ties with Pacific countries.
