Australian maritime defence will rise as priority

Significance

The document significantly enhances the focus on maritime defence including the northern approaches to Australia, in terms of both doctrine and military capabilities. The Update is the most consequential Australian defence policy document since the 2009 Defence White Paper was released.

Impacts

• Ring-fencing defence spending increases will mean cuts elsewhere, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
• Buying long-range missiles and more air-to-air refuelling capacity will extend Australia’s deterrent range.
• The Northern Territory’s economy will benefit from the greater role Darwin will play in the ANZUS alliance and maritime defence.
• There will be bipartisan support for the 2020 Update and ANZUS alliance.