Given the strategic expansion of China and the strategic need of the United States in the Indo-Pacific region, Australia has rapidly emerged as a geopolitical hotspot and a pivot power in recent years. With the rise of China in the international arena, almost all countries in the region have already felt the pressure of economic influence and political interference from China. Australia in the South Pacific region is no exception. China is infiltrating Australia’s politics, economy, society and culture with the so-called “sharp power,” which has become a catch-all phrase in international relations research referring to external influence targeting democracies. Beijing’s behavior has also caused Canberra to be more vigilant about the “economic diplomacy” – or charm offensive – from this “red giant,” since Australia’s national security is significantly based on the US-centered multilateral security alliance. Once China successfully penetrates Australia’s political system, this will weaken allies’ trust in Australia and shake up Australia’s national security. How does Beijing operate sharp power to influence Australia? To explore such question in depth, this initial study examines China’s sharp power in Australia by using the perspective of the wedge strategy.

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Image Source: CNA