Former Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating has launched a blistering attack on the country’s security agencies and media, accusing them of undermining diplomatic relations with China through fearmongering and hysteria. Speaking at The Australian’s Strategic Forum in Sydney, Keating argued that Australia’s foreign policy lacks strategic purpose and has been hijacked by security agencies driven by phobias rather than nuanced diplomacy.
Keating singled out the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age for their anti-China coverage, claiming they equate individual actions with state policy and fail to present a balanced picture of China’s rise. He also criticised The Australian, despite it hosting the event, for contributing to what he called a “recreant” media environment that prioritises sensationalism over public duty.
The former prime minister urged Australia to adopt “strategic realism” in its approach to China, warning against forcing a choice between the US and China. He noted that the United States has retreated into an “America-first” posture, leaving Australia in a difficult position between two great powers. Keating dismissed fears of China’s growth as illegitimate, highlighting its success in lifting 20% of humanity out of poverty.
Former defence department secretary Dennis Richardson offered a counterpoint, acknowledging some truth in Keating’s criticism but arguing it was exaggerated. Richardson praised the current government’s China policy as “pretty good” and expressed confidence in Australian political leaders, noting the absence of extreme figures like Donald Trump or Jeremy Corbyn in the country’s political landscape.
