Even amid the current tensions, the state of the relationship is more complex than headlines would suggest.
In 2012, on the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China, Australia’s first ambassador to Beijing reflected on the growth potential in the relationship. Dr. Stephen Fitzgerald stated that Australia needed to think about its relationship with China beyond economics, to develop a multidimensional perspective.
Australia’s China Legacy
In 1972, Australia became the second Western nation after Sweden to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.
Current State of Play
Australia ranks in China’s top 10 sources of principal imports. While iron ore, natural gas, coal, and gold make up the bulk of these , service industries such as education and tourism have become an important part of the trade relationship.
Business as Usual for Key Initiatives
The strength and complexity of the relationship rest upon a range of industry-led ventures operated at the state level of business and government. While the federal government is a Liberal/National coalition, 62 per cent of Australia’s states and territories are managed by Labor governments, which are strongly connected to China.
Looking Toward the Biden Era
The U.S. election has provided opportunities for a reset in China relations for both the United States and Australia. Considering the well-documented impact that U.S. politics has on Australia’s own Capital Hill, it’s worth reflecting on the potential change that a Biden administration could deliver.
This article was written by Katie Howe
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