Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews has sparked controversy in Australia after being warmly greeted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at Beijing’s massive military parade marking 80 years since the end of World War II.
The event, held in Tiananmen Square, was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korea’s Kim Jong-un, and other authoritarian leaders.
Andrews was joined by former NSW premier Bob Carr, with both attending in a private capacity. Their presence, however, has been described by critics as “absolutely inappropriate.” Former Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the pair had “gone a bridge too far,” adding: “Trade and tourism are one thing, but military parades are quite another.”
The Albanese government was not consulted, and Australia’s official envoy, Scott Dewar, declined the invitation. Still, the defence attaché and political counsellor from Australia’s embassy attended.
Victorian minister Vicki Ward defended Andrews’s right to attend as a private citizen but deflected questions about criticism from Taiwan, which suggested his presence showed Australia was too close to Beijing.
The episode highlights Australia’s delicate balancing act in its relations with China — seeking strong trade ties while managing strategic and security concerns in the Indo-Pacific.
