Alliances and ANZUS

Yet Another Acronym… ANZUS = Australia New Zealand United States But it doesn’t include NZ anymore. (Well they are suspended anyway)

Phases Phase 1 – Federation, ‘Blood Brothers’ Phase 2 – ANZUS enacted after WWII. Phase 3 – Whitlam onwards, turn to Asia and ‘refocus’ the American alliance.

ANZUS The treaty was signed in “The parties will consult together whenever in the opinion of any of them the territorial integrity, political independence or security of any of the Parties is threatened in the Pacific.” What does this infer?

ANZUS Civilian Australians see this treaty as being important. Recent attacks have brought some criticism to the alliance, that it has made us more of a target. See graph on page 241 of textbook.

ANZUS The Defence Department views ANZUS as the foundation stone of Australia’s relationship with Washington. We get stuff out of it. (joint training, access to military technology, intelligence, etc) The only time ANZUS has been invoked was under Howard, during 9/11. Rudd supported this decision.

Recently American training camps in Australia FTA (free trade agreements) come from the alliance. Positive and Negatives of the FTA on page 242 of textbook.

Cartoon Analysis – pp What issue / aspect of the alliance is the cartoon highlighting? 2.What message is the cartoon illustrating? 3.Add the message from each cartoon to your assessment of the alliance – it’s positive and negatives. (we will make a big list on the board)

Article Read ‘Why is Australia the US’ most faithful ally?’

ANZUS treaty today Gillard in the US

What challenges does Gillard face in the current political climate? Strengths Military ‘back up’ Fear of invasion keeps alliance propped up Protection Intimidation of our neighbours? Strong speaking power in International Relations Weaknesses Domestic Pressure Apathy No threat of invasion or attack Economic weakness in the US Anti-American sentiment Australian population means we need an ally Lack of innovation / change of international status quo? Opportunities Build alliance with superpower Free trade In the ‘club’ Threats GFC in the US Silly politicians? Threat to Australian troops / citizens overseas Spreading Anti-American sentiment