In a recent keynote address in Sydney, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese subtly indicated a desire for Australia to assert its independence from the United States. While paying homage to former Prime Minister John Curtin and his pivotal role in establishing Australia’s alliance with the US, Albanese underscored that the nation must take charge of its future. He cited Curtin’s famous remark about Australia looking to America, suggesting it symbolised more than just shifting allegiances but rather an acknowledgment that Australia’s destiny lies within its own region.
Albanese praised Curtin for ensuring that Australians could speak as a sovereign nation, highlighting the former leader’s commitment to advocating for Australia’s interests globally while retaining independence. He emphasised that maintaining this independence does not equate to isolationism, stating, “Choosing our own way doesn’t mean going it alone.”
The Prime Minister reminded his audience that Australia is not “shackled” by its historical ties and should strive to learn from its past to inform its political future. He concluded his address by echoing Curtin’s principles of making independent decisions regarding overseas threats and global affairs. “We can choose how we engage with our region and interact with the world,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that Australia’s stability and prosperity are closely tied to its partnerships.
While Australia has enjoyed a solid and enduring friendship with the US for the past 80 years, experts indicate that Albanese’s speech may represent a strategic pivot in how this relationship evolves. Professor James Curran from the University of Sydney interpreted Albanese’s address as a clear message to Washington that Australia is in control of its own destiny.
Despite this assertive stance, some critics, like Shadow Attorney-General Julian Leeser, believe Albanese has not done enough to strengthen Australia’s position with the US and emphasised the need for a more proactive approach, especially in light of his lack of a meeting with President Donald Trump.
Curtin is celebrated as a key figure in reshaping Australia’s foreign policy and is viewed as the founding father of its alliance with the US. Curran noted that the current discourse indicates a potential for Australia to pursue a more independent foreign policy path, suggesting that such a stance might provoke a reaction from the US.
By skilfully weaving historical references to Curtin with contemporary policy aims, Albanese’s speech reflects a nuanced approach to Australia’s international relationships, emphasising sovereignty while acknowledging the importance of strategic partnerships.