This bilingual research reveals how tensions in the South China Sea are misunderstood and misrepresented in Australia. It provides an overview of strategic and economic considerations, recent developments and policy outlook. It finds the often-repeated claim that China is aggressively expanding into the territory of neighbouring countries is an oversimplification of long-running tensions.

Australia’s current South China Sea policies are under strain from two sides. This briefing argues that Australia should advocate for regular Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) Leaders’ Summits and inclusion of China’s unlawful maritime claims and activities in the South China Sea on the agenda.

This paper examines China’s foreign policy toward Southeast Asia in the context of its neighborhood diplomacy more broadly. The paper also discusses China’s relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and individual Southeast Asian countries, focusing on Indonesia and Vietnam.

The South China Sea fishery is being depleted at an unsustainable rate and in a destructive manner.

Overview In this paper, six experts examine the South China Sea issue, and what role middle powers can play in helping ensure that the contest over disputed territory does not lead to conflict. Brendan Taylor and William Tow examine Australian debates, arguing that Australian policymakers should explore an ‘Asia-first’ approach by cooperating with Indonesia and...