Australia and New Zealand face challenges in changing global order
Saturday 10 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Australia and New Zealand are attempting to navigate a shifting international landscape involving the US and China. Experts warn that both nations risk complacency by trying to avoid retaliation from these powers while seeking to find their footing.
Key facts
4 facts
- Kevin Rudd spoke to the National Press Club in Canberra regarding Australia's national mindset
- The United States is Australia's major security partner
- China is Australia's major economic partner
- Emma Shortis is the director of the International and Security Affairs Program at the Australia Institute
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Australia and New Zealand are both attempting to find their position within a rapidly changing global order. Both nations face warnings regarding complacency as they try to avoid retaliatory actions from either China or the United States.
Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd recently addressed the National Press Club in Canberra, suggesting Australia is transitioning from the 'Lucky Country' to the 'Complacent Country'. Rudd argued that navigating strategic, economic, and technological challenges like AI, climate change, and a rising China requires a radical change in national psychology.
Emma Shortis, director of the International and Security Affairs Program at the Australia Institute, noted that the Australian government is attempting to maintain a path between the two powers. While the United States remains Australia's primary security partner, China serves as its major economic partner.
There is ongoing anxiety in Australia that the United States might pivot away from the Indo-Pacific, leading to efforts to tie the US more closely to regional security. Additionally, some Australian circles are concerned by President Donald Trump's recent warm gestures toward Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Where reports differ
- Report 1 states the Albanese government is unwilling to discuss causes for fear of attracting Trump, while report 2 adds that they also fear undermining the security alliance with the US
Compiled from reports by RNZ and Newsroom.