MOTIONS
Senator WALSH (Victoria—Minister for Early Childhood Education and Minister for Youth) (17:10): The Greens political party's endless condemnation would not get Australia very far. The Greens have long wanted Australia to end the alliance with the US; that is what this motion is about. Labor knows that, as a middle power, Australia is more secure with as many robust relationships as possible.
Australia approaches today's global challenges with more resilience and more options because, since we came to office in 2022, the Albanese government has been doing the hard work of building common ground in more diversified relationships. Australia will continue to invest in these diversified partnerships, especially in our region, at the same time as we continue to engage with traditional partners like the United Kingdom and the United States.
We have always understood that President Trump envisages a different role for the United States in the world. Nevertheless, the United States remains the world's largest economic and military power, with daily influence over international events that have consequences for Australia. This reinforces why being active in shaping our alliance is in Australia's national interest.
The United States is our closest ally and principal strategic partner, and our alliance with the United States is fundamental to Australia's national security, expanding our strategic options and enabling Australia to pursue our national security interests beyond what we could achieve alone. Australians know we don't always agree with other countries, and they expect their government to engage and manage disagreements in a mature, calm and respectful way.
If it were up to the Greens, we would cut ties with most of the world and we wouldn't have a functioning Defence Force. The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT ( Senator Colbeck ): The question is that the motion moved by Senator Shoebridge be agreed to. A division is required.
It being after 4.30 pm, the matter will be adjourned until the next day of sitting.