The following letter was sent to the Prime Minister on 4 July 2025.
The Hon. Anthony Albanese MP
Prime Minister
4 July 2025
Dear Mr Albanese
I am writing on behalf of Australians for War Powers Reform to express strong concern about the recent public comments by the Defence Minister, which indicated that Australia would likely be involved in any US – China war, should it take place.
At a conference on June, 16 Mr Marles inferred that Australia could well be drawn in to such a conflict and that, “Our continent is more relevant to great power contest now than it’s ever been before.”
His comments were widely interpreted as indicating Australian involvement in direct conflict and that we, as a nation should actually “prepare for war”.
Multiple defence experts followed up with numerous media comments about the “China threat” and the alleged need to massively increase our military budget.
Our organisation is disturbed by the views expressed by Mr Marles and call on you to rule out Australia becoming involved in such a war.
One does not need to be an expert to know that a war between these superpowers would be nothing short of catastrophic. Instead of fuelling fear and speculation, Australia should use all diplomatic means available to help the international community avoid such a war.
In our view the Defence Minister has no right to infer or unilaterally decide that Australia accepts some role in this possible conflict.
There has been no public debate or consultation about such a dreadful scenario and there has been no debate within the parliament either.
We applaud the efforts you made during your first term to mend and improve our relationship with China, including your work to normalise trade between our countries.
These efforts are now being put at risk by bellicose statements about the possibility of war.
We believe the government should make it clear now that Australia will not take part in any conflict between the US and our major trading partner, China.
We would appreciate hearing your views on the concerns we have outlined.
Yours sincerely
Andrew Bartlett
President, Australians for War Powers Reform
