I am becoming increasingly uneasy about Australian security. Recent events, including Chinese warships circumnavigating Australia and possibly locating our underwater communications cables, have filled me with newfound uncertainty about our country. In a conflict situation, we could be cut off from the rest of the world. The Northern Territory’s proximity to Southeast Asia means that Darwin and Palmerston—defence cities—are more vulnerable than almost all other parts of Australia.

China’s befriending of Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands nations – including the offer of substantial financial support – makes it impossible for Australia to outbid their excursions into the region. Loyalties may well become divided.

With Russia now seeking to establish an airforce base in Indonesia while America becomes more self-centred and isolationist, Australia’s lack of security has just ramped up a notch.

Meanwhile, our upcoming election has offered little in the way of defence needs and adds to our insecurity. I am increasingly worried about the next few years.