There is an Open Access version for this licensed article that can be read free of charge and without license restrictions. The content of the Open Access version may differ from that of the licensed version.
Pricing information
Please choose your delivery country and your customer group
Australia's national security depends on the strength of the alliance with the United States both for prosperity and security. This alliance has underpinned Australia's security and prosperity in the rules-based order that was established in 1945 and later solidified in 1972 when Nixon visited China. However, there are indications that Australia may have over emphasized the importance of the Alliance while U.S. leadership and predominance has eroded in in the Indo-Pacific. Australia's over-reliance on the U.S. is placing Australia's security at risk and Australia must seek a more independent security strategy and a broader alliance network. Australia must adapt to the changing rules in the new regional order, with China as the future predominant power.While the importance of the Australia-U.S. alliance should not be understated, it may be dangerous to over state it. This paper will compare the Australian and United States' security strategies and determine any strategic misalignment before offering a new path for the Australia - U.S. alliance in the Indo-Pacific.