Senior Australian officials have reassured that relations with the United States remain strong following Donald Trump’s election victory, downplaying any fears that AUKUS, the trilateral security pact between Australia, the US, and the UK, could be jeopardized.
“AUKUS serves the strategic interests of Australia, the United States, and the UK, and that key point will remain unchanged,” Defense Minister Richard Marles stated at the Submarine Institute of Australia conference just days before the election. He emphasized that all discussions with US officials have indicated a bipartisan commitment to AUKUS regardless of the election outcome.
Marles highlighted strong bipartisan support for AUKUS in the U.S. Congress, noting that both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, including those aligned with Trump, voted in favor of the initiative. “The voting record shows broad support, giving us confidence that this program will continue to receive backing in the U.S. and the UK, as well as in Australia,” he added.
In the aftermath of the election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reached out to Trump to congratulate him, discussing the strength of the Australia-U.S. alliance related to security, AUKUS, trade, and investment. Albanese tweeted, “I look forward to working together for the benefit of both our countries.”
Foreign Minister Penny Wong also conveyed congratulations to Trump. She expressed confidence that the alliance transcends individual leadership and emphasized the necessity for Australia to collaborate closely with the Trump administration to uphold key initiatives, including AUKUS. “This is an alliance bigger than any individual. We’ll work closely to address major issues affecting us as a nation and region,” Wong said.
However, the Green Party in Australia reiterated its call for the country to exit AUKUS, a suggestion Wong firmly opposed. She asserted that AUKUS is essential for ensuring peace and deterrence in a region facing challenges, particularly from China. “The submarines under AUKUS provide Australia with sovereign capabilities crucial for our interests,” Wong stated, dismissing the Greens’ stance as irresponsible.
Climate Change as a Dividing Issue While AUKUS appears secure, significant tension may arise between the Albanese and Trump administrations regarding climate change, an issue that holds both economic and national security implications. The Pacific Islands, strategically significant to Australia, are facing severe threats from climate change, making it an existential concern for their leaders.
Trump has pledged to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, the pivotal global climate accord, which contradicts the views of many Australian leaders and citizens who prioritize climate action as vital to national security and economic resilience. Wong acknowledged the likelihood of changes to U.S. climate policy under Trump, stating, “Given Trump’s campaign messaging, we shouldn’t be surprised by a shift.”
She reiterated Australia’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, which she believes aligns with the nation’s interests, highlighting the need for adaptation and progress in a world increasingly focused on achieving net-zero emissions. “We face an imperative to economically transition to thrive in a world moving toward sustainability,” Wong noted, referencing the public’s awareness of the urgent climate situation, particularly in the Pacific.
The Pacific Islands will undoubtedly be monitoring the developments closely as both countries navigate the implications of this evolving dynamic.
