Australia's recent defence spending 'to protect against so-called friend'

The federal government’s $270 billion defence package isn’t designed to protect Australia from countries like Fiji or Tonga, it is there “to protect us from our so-called friend, China” according to Sky News host Alan Jones.

Last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison outlined a 10-year funding model as part of the government's 2020 National Defence Strategy, committing to defence funding that would go beyond two per cent of GDP.

The strategy centred around a three-objective approach to shape the region, deter foreign powers and respond to impending threats.

Mr Morrison said the ADF would shift its focus to the Indo-Pacific region to ensure it could deter threats and respond with credible military force.

"But this is the same China we allow to buy our farms, give them a 100-year lease on the Port of Darwin and sell them vital resources like our water and minerals".

“And yes, this is the same China that brought coronavirus into the world, originating in Wuhan.

“And now our economy is in a coma along with the rest of the Western World.

“Do you think China won't seek to exploit our economic weakness?

“It is no use beating around the bush.”

Mr Jones spoke with Sky News contributor Catherine McGregor on the issue.

Ms McGregor said "I think we've been sleepwalking for too long".

Видео Australia's recent defence spending 'to protect against so-called friend' канала Sky News Australia