Australia and New Zealand monitor Chinese naval task force near Sydney

Australia and New Zealand are closely monitoring a Chinese naval task force off Australia's east coast, which has been labeled "provocative" by the opposition. The task force includes a frigate, cruiser, and supply ship, currently about 150 nautical miles from Sydney. Defence Minister Richard Marles stated that the Chinese ships are operating within international law and have not entered Australian territorial waters. He noted that while the deployment is unusual, it is not unprecedented. New Zealand's Defence Minister confirmed her country's military is also tracking the flotilla. Both nations have not received information from China regarding the task group's purpose or future plans.