Australian Defence Experts Urge Government to Prepare for Potential China Conflict by 2030

Australian defence experts are calling on the Albanese government to start planning now for the possibility of a major conflict with China by 2030. The experts warn that Australia needs to take proactive measures to ensure the country is prepared to mobilize civilians and industry in the event of a crisis.

Defence Minister Richard Marles has acknowledged that Australia faces a challenging decade ahead, with defence spending projected to reach $100 billion per year by the end of the 2030s. The government has outlined a $330 billion blueprint for new weapons, but concerns have been raised about scrapped programs and delays in acquiring vital capabilities.

Why this matters: The growing threat of a conflict with China has far-reaching implications for Australia's national security and economy. Proactive planning and investment in defence capabilities will be critical to ensure Australia is prepared to respond effectively to any potential crisis in the coming years.

A key challenge for the government will be transitioning from a post-Cold War peace dividend to a wartime footing. This includes measures such as stockpiling critical supplies, training civilians for potential roles, and ensuring that industry can quickly shift to support defence needs if required.

The Albanese government's National Defence Strategy focuses on areas such as missile defence, drones, new ships, guided weapons, and undersea warfare, including the development of nuclear-powered submarines through the AUKUS pact. However, some experts argue that the strategy does not convey a strong enough sense of urgency and that the government needs to revisit the timetable to address gaps in Australia's defence preparedness.

"China would have 21 nuclear submarines and 200 warships by 2030, creating an urgent need to deliver the AUKUS submarines and defence technologies," warned Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy last year, emphasizing the pressing nature of the challenge facing Australia.

Key Takeaways

• Australian defence experts warn of potential conflict with China by 2030.
• Australia plans $330B in new weapons, but concerns over delays in capabilities.
• Govt must transition from peace to wartime footing, including stockpiling supplies.
• National Defence Strategy focuses on missile defence, drones, ships, and submarines.
• Experts argue strategy lacks urgency, as China's naval power is projected to grow.