Minister reassures public over China naval exercises

Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles has reiterated that China did not violate international law during recent live-fire drills off Australia's coast. He urged calm as the Chinese naval task group has moved west into the Great Australian Bight. The opposition Coalition criticized the government's response, claiming it shows weakness in dealing with China. They argue that the situation highlights failures in the government's strategy, while Foreign Minister Penny Wong defended the government's approach, stating that stabilisation does not mean China will always act favorably. Concerns were raised about communication delays regarding the drills, as the Australian Defence Force received warnings late. Marles noted that the situation does not equate to a real threat, suggesting that responses would differ if there were an actual danger.