Australia confronts its missile shortfall

Australia is struggling with a shortage of missiles, a situation that has worsened due to the ongoing Iran war. This issue has been highlighted in recent debates within the National Cabinet, which took place near Circular Quay. Unity was discussed through the Second National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children, while division centered around gun buybacks, reforms, and GST reform.

The shortage is exacerbated by the United States, Australia's largest supplier, reducing its stockpiles. While Australia will receive the first foreign delivery of new AIM-260 missiles by 2033, local production of underwater drones could become a major export market, with Kongsberg, a Norwegian weapons manufacturer, opening a new missile facility in Newcastle.

The debate over missile production has led to differing opinions. Angus Taylor, a member of the Coalition, initially expressed skepticism about the EU-Australia free trade deal, citing climate obligations. However, he later encouraged fellow party members to support the deal, acknowledging its potential benefits. Meanwhile, the EU is urging support from Australian businesses for the deal's passage in the Senate, where free trade skeptics are prevalent.