For both better and worse, the United States has historically served as Australia’s complex and often contentious touchstone. The evolution of Australian identity has been significantly influenced by American ideals, which we have adopted, adapted, and at times outright dismissed since the inception of our colonies.
However, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture that necessitates a thorough reassessment of this relationship. This reevaluation should be conducted with a deep appreciation for the vibrancy and dynamism of American culture while maintaining a critical perspective that acknowledges the imperfections.
The last comprehensive examination of this alliance occurred in 1983 under the direction of Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Hayden, who initiated a detailed critique of the ANZUS treaty. This review revealed that the provisions of this agreement did not compel the United States to defend Australia in times of conflict and advocated for greater autonomy in Australian foreign policy, setting the stage for the pivot towards Asia that has influenced our international strategy for decades.
We must ask ourselves whether we possess the political will to embrace the brave recommendations of that critical assessment and adjust our partnership accordingly. It is vital to recognize our own strength; the United States currently values the contributions of Pine Gap and the North West Cape surveillance facilities more than ever.
Over time, especially following John Howard’s open endorsement of George Bush post-9/11 and Australia’s participation in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, our nation has increasingly emulated the role of a U.S. territory in the Pacific—enjoying special visa access while lacking true political representation.
The establishment of the AUKUS partnership presents its own set of challenges for those who cherish national sovereignty, yet the bonds of collaboration are tightening on the ground.
Each year, thousands of U.S. troops rotate through Australia, utilizing the vast 900,000 hectare Bradshaw base—an expanse comparable to the size of Lebanon—for extensive joint military exercises.
This activity occurs in the Northern Territory, where we struggle to secure the necessary funding to settle with the First Peoples, ensuring they have adequate housing, clean water, education, and security in their ancestral lands. In stark contrast, an allocation of $8 billion has been earmarked to expand HMAS Stirling for U.S. submarines.
There is no denying that the U.S. relationship stands as Australia’s most vital alliance, a sentiment shared by the vast majority of Australians. Nevertheless, the principles advocated by President-elect Trump, particularly during his incendiary campaign, stand in stark contrast to the values held by most Australians.
Veteran journalist Bob Woodward made an earnest plea during his recent interview with Sarah Ferguson, urging, “Don’t give up on American democracy,” while acknowledging the potential impending challenges, stating, “If he [Trump] implements some of the threats made, we could witness one of the darkest eras in U.S. and global history.”
Australian perspectives often suggest that our ties with the U.S. began during World War II, spurred by the bombing of American vessels in Sydney and Darwin harbors by Japan. However, the foundation of this relationship dates back to the American Revolution, which prompted the U.S. to halt the transportation of convicts, viewing them as problematic and instead opting to invest in the purchase and enslavement of individuals.
Influence from the U.S. spurred the anti-transportation movement, while the rights encapsulated in the California Constitution inspired early constitutional figures in New South Wales. In turn, Australians eagerly mirrored the American civil rights movements, seeking similar progress and reforms.
Moreover, the contemplated plan to deport African Americans following the American Civil War informed Australia’s legislature when it made its first significant decision to expel South Sea Islanders, who had been brought to Australia involuntarily and feared being forcibly removed yet again.
Throughout the 20th century, the Australia-U.S. relationship deepened, encompassing defense, trade, and culture, all underwritten by a shared exchange of aspirations, tales, and philosophies.
We are now all cogs in this global machine.
Australia has rapidly embraced American market-oriented economic policies, and the consequences of this choice are unfolding in ways reminiscent of the current dynamics seen in U.S. politics.
The belief that Trump’s solutions—predicated on deregulation, imposing higher tariffs, and slashing taxes—would effectively alleviate the burdens felt by those grappling with inflation and stagnant wages eludes comprehension. Just days after the election, the world’s ten wealthiest individuals added an astounding US$64 billion to their fortunes.
The overarching narrative that now influences our relationship is one that remains shrouded in uncertainty. Tech giants, capitalizing on the commercialization of data, have discovered the means to convert information into anxiety, detaching emotions from factual realities. Instead of facilitating informed, data-driven decision-making, data has become a tool to unearth and exploit latent fears.
Elon Musk’s grassroots efforts supporting the Trump campaign exemplify this strategy—$175 million was allocated to bolster Trump’s reelection campaign, fueled by strategically gathered data, resulting in outreach to 11 million households.
We are now all cogs in this global machine. A case in point occurred in Queensland—despite the fact that the actual crime rate is lower than it has been in decades, the pervasive perception of chaos contributed to the election of the Liberal National Party.
America’s unparalleled strength lies in its capacity for myth-making—already, the concept of the American Dream has been redefined to signify “safe, strong, prosperous and free again.” While the economy flourishes, nearly 50,000 individuals succumb to gun violence annually. Now, we are being brought to question whether the president-elect will uphold his controversial promises.
It’s a precarious time for Australia. A logical starting point could involve revisiting and acting upon the insights offered in the comprehensive review from 1983.
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Political Analyst and Author of “Down Under Democracy: The Complex U.S.-Australia Relations”**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. Your recent work examines the intricate relationship between the United States and Australia, especially in light of recent developments like the AUKUS partnership. Let’s start by discussing the historical context. How have American ideals shaped Australian identity since the colonial period?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. American ideals have deeply influenced Australia’s identity, often serving as both a model and a cautionary tale. From our colonial beginnings, where the U.S. stance on convict transportation prompted shifts in our approach to immigration, to the civil rights movements that inspired many Australians, we’ve experienced a blend of admiration and skepticism towards American values. This duality reflects in our current political landscape, where we are reassessing the extent of that influence.
**Editor:** You mentioned that we are at a pivotal juncture in re-evaluating this relationship. What are the key factors prompting this reassessment?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. Several factors are at play. First, the geopolitical landscape is changing, with a noticeable shift towards Asia in our foreign policy. Next, there is growing concern about Australia’s sovereignty, especially as we accommodate increased U.S. military presence through initiatives like AUKUS. Additionally, many Australians are questioning whether our alliance may sometimes prioritize U.S. interests over our own, particularly in areas like indigenous rights and domestic funding.
**Editor:** That brings us to the financial aspects of this alliance. It seems there’s a stark contrast in how funds are allocated, especially regarding defense versus indigenous affairs. What does this say about our priorities as a nation?
**Dr. Carter:** It highlights a troubling discrepancy. While we allocate significant resources—like the $8 billion for expanding HMAS Stirling—to strengthen defense ties with the U.S., basic needs for First Peoples, such as housing, clean water, and education, are sidelined. This reveals an urgent need for balance. The overarching commitment to the U.S. should not come at the expense of our historical and moral responsibilities to our own citizens, particularly the First Nations communities.
**Editor:** You also touched on the recent political climate in the U.S. and its impact on Australia. How do you see this influencing public sentiment towards the alliance?
**Dr. Carter:** There’s palpable tension. While many Australians view the U.S. as our most vital ally, recent political developments, particularly with figures like Donald Trump, have raised concerns. His rhetoric does not resonate with the majority of Australians, who generally prioritize democratic values and inclusivity. As the U.S. grapples with its internal challenges, it inevitably influences how Australians perceive the relationship.
**Editor:** In light of these complexities, what are your thoughts on how Australia should move forward with its foreign policy?
**Dr. Carter:** A forward-thinking foreign policy should embrace a more independent stance. We must critically assess our commitments and advocate for a balance between maintaining a robust alliance with the U.S. and pursuing our own national interests, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. This involves not only working with allies but also fostering deeper relationships with our neighbors. It’s time for Australia to articulate a distinct voice in the global arena, reflective of our values and aspirations.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Carter. Your insights provide a vital perspective on the need for Australia to navigate its historical ties with the U.S. while also prioritizing its own values and responsibilities.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for the opportunity. It’s a critical conversation that we need to keep having as we navigate these complex waters together.