Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews has hit back at criticism of his attendance at China's military parade alongside Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, describing the event as an opportunity to engage with regional leaders. The parade in Beijing marked 80 years since Japan's surrender in the Second World War. Andrews was photographed in a group with the Russian president, North Korean leader, Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian, and Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing.
In a statement, Andrews defended his presence, saying a constructive relationship with China, Australia's largest trading partner, is in the national interest. He reiterated his condemnation of Putin's war in Ukraine, noting he was banned from Russia last year, and reaffirmed his support for Israel and the Jewish community. The former premier said he was invited along with foreign dignitaries including former New Zealand leaders John Key and Helen Clark.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it would have been inappropriate for any government representatives to attend, stressing Andrews was there in a private capacity. 'None of my people would have sat in that position,' he told parliament. Australia's ambassador to China did not attend, sending a junior attache instead. Former NSW premier Bob Carr, also in China for the event, skipped the parade.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan defended Andrews, calling his connection with China 'valuable for our state', but Deputy Premier Ben Carroll broke ranks, questioning the value of appearing alongside Putin and Kim. Several state and federal Labor MPs privately expressed shock, with one calling it an 'absolute disgrace' and another expressing disappointment given recent events including an alleged Iran-linked firebombing of a synagogue.
It is understood the Department of Foreign Affairs was not aware of Andrews's and Carr's attendance until media reports emerged. Andrews's successor, Jacinta Allan, is due to visit Beijing in mid-September.
