Australia’s Pacific push faces headwinds

Significance

The push is intended to counter China’s growing economic and security presence within the region and has as a core policy the establishment of an infrastructure bank.

Impacts

• The infrastructure focus will take time to benefit low-income island nations with basic economies.
• Australia’s government will face regional pressure to put more emphasis on tackling climate change.
• Canberra will need to rebuild political trust after years of neglecting the region.