Andrew Hastie at Domain defines his pushback plan against Chinese Communist Party encroachments::
…First, we need to recognise, understand, and articulate the challenge facing the West.
…Second, we must enlist the full weight of democratic institutions in this effort, including the giving of major speeches, initiating parliamentary inquiries and passing legislative measures, and educating the public.
…Third, democratic leaders must develop a strategy and define victory…Values must be articulated. Core interests must be defined. Sovereignty, where compromised, must be recovered and protected.
…Fourth, democracies should develop and establish expertise in hybrid and political warfare.
…Fifth, we must build an array of political warfare instruments. This would include cyber, diplomatic, information, and media capabilities.
…Sixth, we should use economic measures to counter authoritarian economic coercion…
Finally, democracies need to prepare for the long haul – and to pay a price. Countering and defeating authoritarian political warfare is likely to require sustained effort and spending over several decades.
Our progress report:
- first, we have made good progress but the presense of Gladys Liu in the Government is a major roadblock;
- second, we’ve done bugger all. Indeed, we’re so cowed by Chinese threats that the default position is kow tow and not discuss anything;
- third, we’ve made some progress with FIRB stiffened and taskforces underway belatedly;
- fourth, we’re a long way behind;
- fifth, not too bad;
- sixth, absolutely nowhere;
- seventh, a very minimal start only.
Yet to be discussed with any kind of vigour is:
- cutting immigration;
- cutting foreign students and funding universities properly;
- increased defense spending;
- going nuclear;
- economic diversification.
Basically the stuff that matters. All we have done so far is apply the anti-terrorism model to CCP influence. That may not even work.
There is much to be done. Hastie should get more specific. Until someone in power triggers these debates they will not be had.
