The newly-released National Security Strategy provides good coverage of broad security issues, but could have given a more expansive worldview. Previous Defence White Papers have shown our approach to national security interests has been narrow and reactive rather than broad and proactive. This four-page report suggests there are ways to avoid the trap that strategic...

This paper argues for ocean development to be a key strategic goal of Australia's increased aid investments. In particular, it recommends that AusAID fund key features of the follow-on to Australia's successful Defence funded Pacific Patrol Boat program. Australia has a vital national interest in the management of its adjacent oceans and seas.

With this year marking the 40th anniversary of Mongolia–Australia relations, this paper looks at the background of relations, educational investment, economic interests and political and security ties. The Australian Government will increase the number of scholarships for Mongolian students from 28 to 38 per year, open a trade office in Ulaanbaatar, and continue its developmental...

In May 2012, ASPI and the Johannesburg-based Brenthurst Foundation co-hosted a major international dialogue on natural resource demand and China’s economy. Held in Zambia, the event brought together experts and policymakers from Africa, Australia, Latin America and elsewhere. Australia's growing interest in Africa is being shaped by China's changing relationship with the continent. China sees...

In mid-June ASPI's Peter Jennings chaired an international conference in Perth aimed at developing responses to piracy and related crimes at sea. The meeting was sponsored by the DFAT and Defence. This Special Report provides a summary of the deliberations as well as some very useful background papers by Dr Sam Bateman. Australia has been...