The federal government today unveiled an $800 million package that will be used to strengthen Australia’s strategic proposition in Antarctica, Australia, Antarctica.
On Tuesday announced plans to step up its presence and surveillance operations in Antarctica, offering a $575 million package to meet China’s growing interest in the polar region. Australia is stepping up its Antarctic operations after warning China was becoming more assertive in the region. Beijing has established two year-round stations in Antarctica, and its spending on Antarctic projects is steadily rising.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the new $800 million package would allow Australia to turn its attention to Antarctica. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the package would strengthen Australia’s national interest in Antarctica and create additional jobs for Australians through local procurement. Foreign Secretary and Women’s Minister Maris Payne said the package would strengthen Australia’s commitment to the Antarctic Treaty system and promote Tasmania as a gateway to East Antarctica.