@ISIDEWITHQuestionsForeign policyStarted 8yrs agoActive 3 days ago

Should the government increase or decrease military spending?

Should Australia increase or decrease military spending?

In February 2016 the government announced that military spending will increase Military spending will grow by $29.9b through 2026. Australia’s military budget is the 12th largest in the world. The 2016 increase will rank Australia 9th amongst world Defence budgets as a percentage of GDP. Proponents of a larger budget argue that it is necessary due to recent disagreements between the US and China in the South China sea. Critics of a larger budget argue that it sets off an unnecessary arms race and will provoke China into creating a larger naval force to offset it.

36%
Increase
34%
Decrease
31%
Increase
34%
Decrease
5%
Increase, but only after our deficit is drastically reduced

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Other Popular Answers

Unique answers from Australia users whose views extended beyond the provided choices.

 @8JSWYCQanswered…4yrs4Y

I think they should increase it only if it is something we really need. I don't think it should be increased if they are going to spend it on nucellar weapons.

 @97ZL8PManswered…1yr1Y

We should spend the amount required to keep the country safe but should be eliminating money that is being wasted/rorted by inefficiencies in the system.

 @93W87X3answered…2yrs2Y

hhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmmmmm

 @938425Qanswered…2yrs2Y

Increase, Military is Important right now due to rising tensions around the world

 @9M6YVS5answered…5 days5D

increase artillery and long-range missile arsenals, cut infantry funding, drones, missiles and nukes are the best defense/ deterrent to war and invasion

 @9M2Y2CKanswered…1wk1W

if there is need to then yes but if there is no need to add more money, they can put it somewhere else

Latest News

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 @ISIDEWITH submitted…2wks2W

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Pledges Significant Defence Spending Amid Global Instability

In a decisive move to bolster national security and affirm the United Kingdom's commitment to global stability, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a significant increase in defence spending. Amidst growing concerns over international tensions and the assertion that the world is experiencing its most volatile period since the Cold War, Sunak has pledged to raise the UK's defence budget to 2.5% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the year 2030. This ambitious plan will see defence spending soar to an annual total of 87 billion pounds ($108 billion), marking a substantial investment in the nation's military capabilities and infrastructure.The announcement comes as Sunak embarks on a diplomatic tour, engaging in critical talks with NATO allies in Warsaw and Berlin. The Prime Minister's initiative underscores a strategic effort to strengthen alliances and address the rising threats that have cast a shadow over global peace and security. By committing to a significant increase in defence expenditure, the UK aims to play a pivotal role in fostering a stable international environment, demonstrating its readiness to confront challenges that may arise.This move has been framed as a response to the current geopolitical landscape, which Sunak describes as the most dangerous and unpredictable in decades. The increased funding is intended not only to modernize the British armed forces but also to ensure that the UK remains a formidable force on the international stage. It reflects a broader strategy to adapt to the changing nature of warfare and emerging threats, including cyber attacks and other forms of hybrid warfare.Critics and supporters alike are keenly observing the implications of this policy shift, with many noting the potential impacts on the UK's fiscal priorities and the broader defence strategy. As the UK navigates through these uncertain times, the government's commitment to enhancing military spending is a clear signal of its determination to safeguard national interests and contribute to global security.As Prime Minister Sunak continues his discussions with European leaders and NATO officials, the UK's pledge to increase its defence budget is a testament to its resolve to uphold peace and stability. This strategic decision not only reinforces the UK's position as a leading military power but also as a proactive agent in the pursuit of a safer, more secure world.

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