The Global Innovation Index, the world's leading measurement of innovation across more than 80 indicators, shows Australia is not innovating enough. The economic and technological realities of an increasingly innovative world economy will inevitably catch up to Australia.

In the first instalment of the United States Studies Centre's new debate series, James Laurenceson and Jared Mondschein go head to head over who is Australia's most important economic partner, the United States or China?

Australia enjoys a remarkable benefit from its multi-faceted, two-way investment relationship with the United States. And while Australia’s trade relationships, particularly in the region, are vital to continued growth and prosperity, the United States remains Australia’s indispensable economic partner.