China's Expanding Military Reach and Its Implications for Australia

China's military capabilities pose increasing threats to Australia, primarily through cyberattacks and potential physical strikes in the next decade. Undersea cables are vulnerable, with Australian maritime trade at risk. Australia's ties with China are complex, given its reliance on Chinese trade and diplomatic challenges. Canberra remains cautious.

China's ability to militarily strike Australia is anticipated to markedly grow over the next decade, according to a report from the Lowy Institute, a Sydney-based think tank. Immediate threats may stem from cyberattacks and the severing of undersea communication cables.

The report highlighted that China's new long-range stealth bomber, coupled with the deployment of missiles and aircraft near Australian territories, could significantly heighten the long-term threat. Since 2018, China has been actively seeking military basing arrangements in Pacific Island nations, which could bring central Australia within combat range.

Despite improved diplomatic relations since 2022, Australia continues to be wary of China's expanding influence in the Pacific, especially after a security pact with the Solomon Islands. Canberra is bolstering security ties with Pacific nations to counteract any permanent Chinese military presence in the region.