Australia clashes with Asian energy giants over gas export crackdown

Australia's foreign policy has long been shaped by its concerns over China's growing influence in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. In response, successive governments have enacted legislation to counter foreign interference, tightened regulations on foreign investment, and fostered economic ties with the region. Security collaborations with the United States have also strengthened, with AUKUS and the Quad serving as primary foreign policy initiatives.

However, a notable paradox exists in Australian foreign policy. While Australia's neighbors in Southeast Asia express worry about China's influence, their governments have not sought to form a coalition against the Chinese power. Polling data and research indicates that many Southeast Asian citizens also harbor concerns about China's growing presence, yet their governments maintain a cautious approach.

This divergence in response to China's rise presents a significant challenge to Australia's understanding of the global order. The "hedging strategy" adopted by Southeast Asian nations involves engaging with China while forging closer diplomatic and economic ties with other powers, primarily the United States, Japan, India, and Russia.

In contrast, Australia's strategic orientation is rooted in its support for the post-World War II international order, characterized by sovereign equality, multilateral institutions, open trade, and universal adherence to law. This perspective is deeply moral, with Australia viewing moral power as inherently valuable. Consequently, Australia's foreign policy has been guided by a consistent desire to uphold this moral order, particularly in its relationship with the United States.

This contrast underscores the profound divergence between Australia and its Southeast Asian neighbors when it comes to dealing with China's increasing influence. Understanding the roots of this divergence and its implications for regional stability is a pressing priority for Australia in the near future.