This paper examines the issue of nuclear latency (the potential for countries to obtain nuclear weapons capability) by focusing on the cases of the Republic of Korea and Japan, then looks at what Australia should do. Overview Since the 1946 ‘Report on the International Control of Atomic Energy’ and the closely associated Baruch Plan formulated...

This paper proposes ways to keep Australia and New Zealand within the Pacific Islands Forum and at the same time meet the concerns of the Pacific island states about ‘charting their own course’.

In 1980 ANU security expert Des Ball published, A Suitable Piece of Real Estate, about American installations in Australia. These military and intelligence bases are the cornerstone of the Australian/US defence relationship. Over 30 years later, there are calls for a renewed debate on the role of these 'joint installations' and their contribution to Australia's...

This paper explores the opportunities for both Australia and Japan jointly to promote their shared interest in strengthening the rule of law in the Asia–Pacific. Overview The rule of law is an essential condition if cooperation and orderly behaviour are to be advanced in the Asia–Pacific. We need norms and rules that guide—and govern—relations among...

This Quick Guide provides a brief background to Australia’s preferential trade agreements (PTAs; often referred to as free trade agreements), in particular what they are, what they cover and commentary on whether they have been effective in increasing Australia’s wider economic welfare. What are Preferential Trade Agreements? A PTA is essentially a contract between two...