As Australia approaches the 2025 federal election, cost-of-living pressures continue to dominate voter concerns. Yet beneath the surface of the economic debate, foreign policy, particularly Australia’s relationship with the People’s Republic of China (PRC), remains a significant backdrop to national conversations about security and leadership. 

This report outlines how Australia's two major parties are positioning their messaging and policy on the PRC and examines how these positions are evolving under increased international pressure and domestic scrutiny.

The Australian Labor Party (ALP) has focused on stabilising relations with Beijing while maintaining a firm security posture. The Liberal-National Coalition is adopting a more assertive tone, challenging the ALP’s approach as too passive in the face of growing threats. Despite this, public opinion, at least for the time being, continues to favour the ALP’s handling of the PRC relationship. 

Both parties support core strategic frameworks like AUKUS but differ in emphasis. Labor prioritises diplomatic management; the Coalition leans into security framing. Global shifts, especially a more combative United States of America under Donald Trump and increasingly assertive behaviour from the PRC, are reducing Australia’s room to hedge. 

Whoever forms government will face a more volatile external environment and rising pressure to define clearer lines on the PRC.