Australia s Joint Military Initiatives - 4279 Words

Introduction In November 2011, Prime Minister Julia Gillard and US president Barack Obama announced to Australian parliament a number of joint military initiatives the two countries would undertake as a part of the US strategy to rebalance towards the Pacific region. While touring the US in 2013, Prime Minister Gillard continued to convey her support during a speech to congress where she proclaimed, â€Å"you have a true friend down under.† However, does this sentiment place Australia in a conflicted position given its perceived economic reliance on Chinese trade? This paper argues this is not the case. Furthermore, Australia has the potential to assist the US with their strategic intent by increasing security and stability throughout the†¦show more content†¦Thesis This research paper argues the Seasonal Workers Program can help stabilize the South Pacific by influencing regional economies. Moreover, the program reinvigorates Australian leadership in the region, reducing the likelihood of increased Chinese influence and therefore supports the strategic intent of the US. Why the Rebalance Strategy? President Barak Obama announced to the Australian parliament in November 2011 that the United States had commenced a review to establish key strategic interests in order to guide budgetary and defense priorities. The US ‘Pivot to the Pacific’ strategy commenced with President Obama declaring he had â€Å"directed my national security team to make our presence and mission in the Asia-Pacific a top priority.† A forecast reduction in military commitments in the Middle East would allow resources reallocation to the Pacific region to strengthen relationships with partner nations and counter a rise in Chinese strength. Therefore, this begs the question—why has the US postured to the Pacific? The period immediately prior to the 2011 announcement saw a gradual increase in US diplomatic interest within the Pacific region. Prior to this recent increase, the lack of US diplomatic support gave regional partners the impression the US role in regional affairs was on the decline just as Chinese influence was increasing. According to political