BLUF

If directly attacked, and in the South Pacific, Australia can expect strong New Zealand support but not necessarily in conflicts in Southeast Asia or Papua New Guinea.

Summary

 

This article provides a New Zealand (NZ) perspective in this ASPI article which makes the following points:

  • NZ and Australia always tended to support the US as the dominant Asia–Pacific power. 
  • The US suspended its alliance obligations to New Zealand from 1986- 2012 due to NZ’s anti-nuclear policy.
  • NZ often says Australia is its only formal ally.
  • NZ’s 2016 defence white paper states it would respond immediately to attacks on Australia.
  • The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) must operate effectively with its ally—ANZUS isn’t mentioned.
  • Closer Defence Relations between Australia and NZ is not the same as an alliance.
  • Continuous military cooperation since Gallipoli is a myth.
  • Australian expectations of NZDF support in a potential conflict with China over Taiwan, the South China Sea or Papua New Guinea are not guaranteed.
  • Recent Five Eyes Foreign Minister Statements demonstrate New Zealand shouldn’t be taken for granted.

 

Learn more about New Zealand’s and ANZUS.

References