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An independent panel published their findings in a report entitled Red Alert.

Series

Red Alert

Five national security experts assembled by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age conclude the overwhelming source of danger to Australia is from China — and we’re not prepared for it.

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Chinese soldiers mark the 70th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing in 2019.

Australia faces the threat of war with China within three years – and we’re not ready

Are we prepared for full-scale conflict? Our panel of national security experts says no.

  • Peter Hartcher and Matthew Knott
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A Taiwan Armed Forces M60A3 main battle tank fires during a military combat live-fire exercise in Hsinchu, Taiwan, on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2021. A top American defense official said on Dec. 9 that strengthening Taiwan’s ability to defend itself is an “urgent task” for the U.S. as China engages in destabilizing and “intentionally provocative” actions toward the self-governing island. Photographer: I-Hwa Cheng/Bloomberg

‘Australia’s holiday from history is over’

Five of the nation’s top security minds sound the alarm about Australia’s readiness for war.

  • Peter Hartcher and Matthew Knott
Peter Hartcher and Matthew Knott discuss the Red Alert project.
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  • Video

Watch: Red Alert roundtable

Peter Hartcher and Matthew Knott host five independent experts for a review of Australia’s national security.

Other series

The Sydney Central Business District, Sydney Harbour and Eastern Suburbs and surrounds are seen on 18 February 2025, in Sydney, Australia from a commercial airliner. Picture - Sam Mooy / The Sydney Morning Herald

Life in the burbs

We’re celebrating Sydney’s suburbs and local writers have been penning pieces about the neighbourhoods they know best. Read all their stories here.

  • 8 stories
Australia's declining fertility rate.

Australia’s baby bust

The fertility rate in Australia is at a record low. We explore why we’re having fewer babies – and what that means for the country’s future.

  • 15 stories