Australia can no longer afford to sit back and underinvest in its defence while the world becomes more dangerous by the day. President Donald Trump is absolutely right to demand that America’s allies—including Australia—take more responsibility for their own security by lifting defence spending.
If Europe can commit to 5% of GDP, surely a thriving, stable democracy like Australia can do better than a mere 2.3% over the next decade.
The Albanese government’s reluctance to meet this challenge not only risks weakening our global standing but also threatens the very security of our region. As strategic competition with China intensifies, and with tensions escalating in the Middle East, we must ask ourselves: are we doing enough to protect our interests and honour our alliances?
The United States has long shouldered the military burden for the West, ensuring the security umbrella that countries like Australia have benefitted from for decades. But that era is ending. Washington wants—and deserves—partners, not passengers. It’s time we acted like the serious middle power we claim to be.
Trump’s call for 3.5% of GDP in defence spending is not outrageous—it’s necessary. AUKUS, the Quad, and our broader Indo-Pacific commitments demand resources, manpower, and advanced capability. How can we expect to uphold our end of the deal when we can’t even fill our ranks, with over 1000 police vacancies and hundreds of military positions unstaffed?
Increased defence spending doesn’t mean blind militarisation. It means investing in new technologies, cybersecurity, border protection, and force readiness. It also means sending a message—to allies and adversaries alike—that Australia is serious about its sovereignty and willing to pay its share.
The Prime Minister’s claim that the electorate endorsed the current spending trajectory is a weak shield against changing global realities. Leadership means adapting—not hiding behind past mandates.
Trump’s style may be blunt, but his core message is clear and justified: secure nations must carry their weight. We cannot rely on the US forever. And if we want Washington to continue supporting us, especially through critical alliances like AUKUS, we must show that we are all-in.
Boosting defence spending is not surrendering to Trump. It’s recognising that the world has changed—and we must too.
