United States Studies Centre event - Strategy, uncertainty and alliances in the Indo-Pacific region

Melissa McIntosh MP 

Co-Chair of Australia – US Parliamentary Friendship Group

Shadow Minister for Communications 
Shadow Minister for Women 
Federal Member for Lindsay 

Good afternoon, everyone, as the Federal Member for Lindsay first and foremost, and Co‑Chair of the Australia – US Parliamentary Friendship Group.

The United States Studies Centre, as we know, has been a long, steady, thoughtful provider of our national conversation on the relationship between Australia and the U.S. At a time when the strategic environment is shifting so quickly, the Centre brings discipline, depth, and clarity. I saw this firsthand during my time working at the Centre. And I would like to acknowledge Mike Green and the whole team in the room here today.

The report that is being launched today makes a point we cannot afford to overlook: regional dynamics are challenging long‑held policy assumptions. That is not simply an academic conversation or academic observation. It is a reminder that Australia must be prepared to rethink, to adapt, and to lead.

We are joined today by an exceptional panel of experts — people who bring experience, insight, and importantly, different perspectives. That diversity is something to value. Strong democracies don’t shy away from robust debate. They rely on it. So be robust today in your discussions.

Putting the United States into the frame, we are at a time where our alliance partner is refining elements of its grand strategy under President Trump, with a renewed focus on burden‑sharing and industrial resilience. Here in parliament yesterday, my colleague and shadow defence minister Angus Taylor spoke at the AUKUS event about capability, delivery, and meeting the strategic moment with resolve. These themes — across governments and across institutions — reflect the seriousness of the environment we are operating in.

But let me say this clearly and I say it with repetition at every opportunity: our alliance with the United States has always been broader than defence. It is built on shared democratic values, economic partnership, scientific excellence, and the people‑to‑people ties that shape how our nations understand one another. From critical minerals and clean energy, to cyber, space, education, and advanced technology — the alliance is one of Australia’s greatest strategic strengths.

I’d like to give a shout out to my own portfolio in this context. I am the Shadow Communications Minister and right now, I am looking at our reliance on satellites in the sky for our future telecommunications and there will be some legislation going through parliament. But right now there is only one major supplier of low earth satellite technology which comes from the U.S., so I think there is a big debate on communication sovereignty in our country and I hope the United States Studies Centre is involved in that debate.

The Indo‑Pacific is now the world’s strategic centre of gravity. What happens here will shape the security and prosperity of our nation. And we are already feeling the pressure — from intensifying competition to the live‑fire exercises conducted by China in the Tasman Sea. These challenges are real, and they are close.

So, the question before us is simple: will Australia meet this moment with clarity and clear direction?

I believe we can - and we must.

Leadership in this environment means being honest about the challenges, confident in our values, and committed to the partnerships that make us stronger. It means ensuring our policies are fit for purpose, our alliance remains credible, and our national direction is guided by clear thinking rather than complacency.

Australia leads best when we stand firm in our values, are clear in our purpose, and are confident in the partnerships that make us stronger.

Thank you for being here. Best wishes for the insights and no doubt robust debate that will help shape Australia’s path forward.