Kevin Rudd, speaking at the National Press Club, warned that Australia’s security depends on the United States but also on national self‑reliance. He described the US alliance as a “force multiplier” for defence but said it could not alone meet the uncertainties of a world where China’s rise and America’s shifting role collide. Rudd urged Australia to re‑embrace self‑reliance to anticipate future challenges.
When asked whether Australia would be forced to join a US war with China over Taiwan, Rudd declined to give a definitive answer. He said the country could “duck and weave,” implying that Australia could choose to decline participation even if US nuclear submarines and bombers operated from Australian bases.
New Guardian data reveal more than 100 US military bases across Australia, including nuclear‑capable bombers that may take off from Australian airfields and nuclear‑powered submarines that will use HMAS Stirling. The presence of these forces, coupled with the United States’ current involvement in a conflict in Iran, has raised concerns that Australia may become an automatic target if the US engages China.
Experts highlight that the scale of US military presence in Australia is unprecedented outside major conflicts. David Vine argues that hosting US bases turns a country into a target and encourages Chinese military buildup. Van Jackson notes the US has used Australia’s geography for strategic advantage, describing the alliance as largely exploitative and focused on access rather than decisive power.
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