Neutrality Studies [Back issue] Australia and Japan are Ditching US Empire | Prof. Warwick Powell
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Oct 4, 2025 
Prof. Warwick Powell, an Adjunct Professor at Queensland University of Technology and Senior Fellow at the Taihe Institute, dives into Australia and Japan's evolving geopolitical strategies. He discusses the symbolic outcomes of Australian PM Albanese's China visit and explores whether Australia is shifting its China policy. Warwick reveals ASEAN's potential as a stabilizing force and raises concerns about grassroots neutrality movements. He critiques recent US-Japan investment announcements, highlighting their limited economic impact amid rising regional tensions.
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Competing Australian Schools On China And Security
- Australian views range from accepting a post-American Asia to trying to reclaim US-led balance of power.
- The debate's outcome will shape defence spending, alliances, and Australia's China posture.
US 'Clarity' Ask Was Disruptive And Ill-Timed
- The US request for 'strategic clarity' from allies was likely timed to disrupt Albanese's China visit.
- Australia responded by reaffirming opposition to unilateral status‑quo changes and avoiding hypotheticals.
Australia Is Tangibly Entrenched In US Military Network
- Australia has become deeply integrated into US military networks with bases, Pine Gap, and troop rotations.
- That integration makes it politically and practically hard for Australia to claim neutrality in a regional conflict.