The National Security Podcast

How does China’s leadership view the relationship with the US, and how has that perspective evolved over the years? How might China seek to take advantage of recent actions by the Trump Administration that have destabilised the international order? How should Australia respond to shifting US-China dynamics in the Indo-Pacific? In this episode, Chris Buckley joins Susan Dietz to discuss the evolving relationship between China and the US, including the implications for economic and bilateral ties, and the wider geopolitical dynamics at play in the Indo-Pacific region.Chris Buckley is the chief China correspondent for The New York Times. He reports on China and Taiwan from Taipei, and focuses on politics, social change, and security and military issues.Susan Dietz is Senior Executive Advisor, China at the ANU National Security College.TRANSCRIPT Show notes ·      NSC academic programs – find out more.We'd love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to&nb

Is Australia doing enough to make intelligence useful for policymakers, parliamentarians, and cabinet ministers? How can Australia build an intelligence workforce with a diverse range of skills, interests and backgrounds, and reflective of our society?  How should Australia balance its intelligence independence with alliance integration?  In this episode Chris Taylor and Miah Hammond-Errey join Rory Medcalf to delve into the 2024 Independent Intelligence Review, discussing the role of intelligence in an uncertain world, the relationship between intelligence and policy, and the impact of technology on intelligence.  Chris Taylor is Head of the Statecraft & Intelligence Program at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. Dr Miah Hammond-Errey is the founding CEO of Strat Futures Pty Limited and host of the Technology & Security podcast. Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decad

What impact will cuts to foreign aid have on security in Southeast Asia and the Pacific? Why is international development essential to Australia’s diplomacy and security outlook? Do the recent Trump tariffs and withdrawal of aid demand a more active role for Australia and other middle powers? In this episode Melissa Conley Tyler and Mira Sulistiyanto join David Andrews to unpack the current state of foreign aid and international development, with a focus on cuts to USAID, its implications, and Australia’s role as aid partner for the region. Melissa Conley Tyler FAIIA is Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Development, Diplomacy & Defence Dialogue. Mira Sulistiyanto is an international development expert currently working at the Development Intelligence Lab as Senior Analyst. David Andrews is Senior Manager, Policy & Engagement at the ANU National Security College (NSC).  TRANSCRIPTShow notes NSC academic programs – find out more.  Development disrup

What are the biggest contemporary threats to food security? How do global shocks affect supply chains? How will the Trump tariffs impact Australian and global food security? How can Australian research help bolster food security in other regions?  In this episode, Alison Bentley and Dirk van der Kley join David Andrews to share insights into the current state of food security, contemporary threats, and the need for research and innovation to ensure sustainable food systems.  Dr Alison Bentley is Deputy Director, Agriculture and Food at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). Dr Dirk van der Kley is a Research Fellow at the ANU National Security College (NSC). David Andrews is Senior Manager, Policy & Engagement at NSC.  TRANSCRIPT   Show notes  NSC academic programs – find out more  The world is producing more food, but it is a mixed bag in terms of improving diets | Tom Campbell and Dirk van der Kley Future

Was China's live fire exercise off Australia's coast permissible under international law? What might have been the rationale behind this exercise? Does this fit into a bigger pattern of Chinese maritime coercion, or was it a standalone incident? What are the strategic implications for Australia of China's growing blue water naval capabilities? How should Australia respond?  In this episode Jennifer Parker and Douglas Guilfoyle join David Andrews to discuss China's recent naval operations off Australia, their legality, and the strategic lessons for Australia. Jennifer Parker is an Expert Associate with the ANU National Security College (NSC).Professor Douglas Guilfoyle is an expert in maritime security, the international law of the sea, and international and transnational criminal law at the University of New South Wales (Canberra).David Andrews is Senior Manager, Policy & Engagement at NSC. TRANSCRIPT  Show notes NSC academic programs – find out more If we pani

What parallels can be drawn between Russia’s democratic decline and challenges facing the US and other Western democracies?  What are the prospects for genuine peace after Putin's invasion of Ukraine?  With the US’ shifting priorities, how does Europe’s response to Russian aggression inform Australia’s own security outlook?  In this episode, Peter Tesch and Mikhail Zygar join Rory Medcalf for a discussion on the evolving role and influence of Russia in the global order, the impending challenges of the war in Ukraine, and the role that the US and Europe will play in this equation. Mikhail Zygar is a leading journalist, writer, commentator, filmmaker and expert on Russian affairs. He was also the founding editor-in-chief of Russian news channel TV Rain. Peter Tesch is a Distinguished Advisor with the ANU National Security College (NSC) and a leading Australian diplomat and policy official.  Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more t

How is the shift in foreign policy under Donald Trump reshaping US alliances, and what does this mean for global security? To what extent is the US still a force for global stability? Could the new direction in US foreign policy under Donald Trump succeed in pulling Russia away from its partnership with China? In this episode, Beth Sanner joins Rory Medcalf to explore the Trump administration's approach to global issues – particularly in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, the evolving dynamics of US alliances, and the broader threat environment. Beth Sanner is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). She is a former US Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration and was Director of the President's Daily Brief during Donald Trump’s first stint as President. Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.TRANSCRIPTShow notes· 

How does the exercise of judicial power shape national security law and policymaking in Australia? What legal safeguards exist to balance civil liberties and national security? Why do the principles of citizenship matter in Australia’s legal system and national security decisions? In this episode, Rebecca Ananian-Welsh and Sangeetha Pillai join Danielle Ireland-Piper to explore the separation of powers in national security law in Australia, the role of courts, and the challenges surrounding citizenship laws. Associate Professor Rebecca Ananian-Welsh is a constitutional law scholar and Editor of the University of Queensland Law Journal at the TC Beirne School of Law, The University of Queensland.Dr Sangeetha Pillai is a constitutional lawyer and writer, and an expert on Australian citizenship, migration and refugee law.Associate Professor Danielle-Ireland Piper is Academic Director at the ANU National Security College (NSC). TRANSCRIPT Show notes·     NSC academic p

Why is everyone suddenly talking about Greenland? How will Arctic security be impacted by rising great power competition? How have US neighbours and allies responded?  In this episode, Iselin Németh Winther and Heather Exner-Pirot join David Andrews to explore the evolving significance of Arctic security, the uncertainties for Greenland under Donald Trump, and the potential impact of Arctic power dynamics on global governance.  Iselin Németh Winther is a researcher at the Fridtjof Nansen Institute in Oslo. She specialises in the geopolitics and security dynamics of the Arctic.Dr Heather Exner-Pirot is a Senior Fellow and Director of Energy, Natural Resources and Environment at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa and Managing Editor of The Arctic Yearbook.David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). TRANSCRIPT Show notes·      NSC academic programs – find out more·      We Went to

Is BRICS primarily a challenge to Western-led institutions, or does it serve a broader purpose in global governance? How effective has BRICS been at pursuing its objectives? Does BRICS membership provide newer states with greater strategic influence through engagement with major economies like China, India, and Russia?  In this episode, Flavia Zimmermann and Fitriani join David Andrews to explore the evolving role of BRICS, its effectiveness, and its potential influence on global governance and power dynamics.  Dr Flavia Bellieni Zimmermann is a Lecturer in Public Policy in the school of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Melbourne and an international political analyst. Dr Fitriani is a senior analyst with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute's Cyber, Technology and Security program, specialising in hybrid threats in the Indo-Pacific, as well as foreign policy and non-traditional security issues. David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU

How should Australia strengthen engagement with Africa?How do perceptions of Africa influence Australia’s approach to bilateral and regional partnerships, and what opportunities might we be overlooking?How do African nations view China? And how does China shape the dynamics of African geopolitics? In this episode, Babatunde Obamamoye, Matthew Neuhaus and Lisa Filipetto join David Andrews and Melissa Permezel to discuss opportunities and barriers to Africa–Australia relations and the role of perception in engagement.Dr Babatunde Obamamoye is a sessional lecturer in the Department of International Relations at the Australian National University (ANU).  Matthew Neuhaus is an Honorary Professor at the ANU College of Law.  Lisa Filipetto AM is a former United Nations Assistant Secretary General, leading the UN Peace Operations Support Mission in Somalia from 2018 to 2023.  David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). Dr Melissa Permezel is an Ad

How can fiction and storytelling effectively engage the public with the complex challenges of national security?How does storytelling bridge gaps in historical narratives and deepen our understanding of contemporary conflicts?How can fiction help project future scenarios and explore potential outcomes? In this episode, Misha Zelinsky and Mick Ryan join David Andrews to explore the intersection of fiction and national security – sharing personal experiences on how storytelling can shape public perceptions, and inspire action in the realm. Misha Zelinsky is an Expert Associate with the ANU National Security College. He is a leading authority on the rise of global authoritarianism, a Fulbright Scholar, economist, lawyer, and author.Major General (Retd) Mick Ryan AM is a Senior Fellow for Military Studies in the Lowy Institute’s International Security Program. He spent 35 years in the Australian Army and had the honour of commanding soldiers at multiple levels.David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at

Only three percent of Australian adults were able to demonstrate the ability to verify information online, in a recent study. How can media literacy help inoculate citizens against mis- and disinformation?  Why are critical thinking and media skills essential in a thriving democracy? And how can best-practice examples from around the globe and leading domestic research help shape the recently announced National Media Literacy Strategy?  In this episode, Tanya Notley and Sora Park join Tim Wilford to discuss Australian media habits, media literacy, and how people can better equip themselves to identify mis/disinformation.  Professor Sora Park is a Professor of Communication and a Professorial Research Fellow at the University of Canberra's News and Media Research Centre. Associate Professor Tanya Notley is an Associate Professor at Western Sydney University's Institute for Culture and Society. Tim Wilford is Senior Manager, Policy and Engagement at th

How can Australia continue to champion the rules-based order, while balancing its strategic relationships and defence priorities?   How is the government modernising the Australian Defence Force to address evolving challenges?   What is Australia doing to ensure it remains the partner of choice in the Pacific? And how does the NRL deal with PNG impact security in the region?   In this episode, Pat Conroy joins Rory Medcalf to discuss his strategic worldview, Australia’s ties with the Pacific and the Albanese Government’s continued push to invest more in the Australian Defence Force. The Hon Pat Conroy MP is the Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery and the Minister for International Development and the Pacific. Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College (NSC). His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. TRANSCRIPTShow notes:  &nbs

As the notion of a single ‘global theatre of struggle’ gains traction, what are the major challenges that Australia currently faces?How has Australia’s defence investment evolved over the years, and is the nation equipped to address today’s pressing challenges?What steps can Australia take to strengthen social cohesion while navigating political compromise and disruptive forces?In this episode, Andrew Hastie joins Rory Medcalf to discuss his formative influences, strategic worldviews, and Australia’s defence challenges. The Hon Andrew Hastie MP is the Shadow Minister for Defence, Shadow Minister for Defence Industry, and Shadow Minister for Defence Personnel. Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College (NSC). His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. TRANSCRIPTShow notes:  NSC academic programs – find out more The Hon Andrew Hastie MP’s speech at Securing our Futur

How does the United States' presidential transition process work, and how does it compare to the Australian electoral system? How might the election of Donald Trump impact US foreign and security policies?  How can Australia best engage with a new Trump administration on critical issues like AUKUS, defence strategy, and tariffs?  In this episode, Charles Edel joins Bianca Birdsall to discuss the election of Donald Trump to the US presidency, his proposed cabinet and staff nominees, and the security and foreign policy implications of a new administration for Australia and its region.    Dr Charles Edel is a Senior Advisor and inaugural Australia Chair at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies.   Bianca Birdsall is a Senior Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). TRANSCRIPTShow notes:  Listener survey: The National Security Podcast NSC academic programs – find out more Inflation Reduction Act | U.S. Departmen

How does our strategic environment inform leadership in intelligence and national security? How do partnerships assist intel collection in an increasingly complex world?  What are the foundations of trust in a leader?  This episode is a panel discussion, hosted by Meg Tapia at the 2024 Women in National Security LIVE, features Kerri Hartland, Heather Smith, and Heather Cook. They explore leadership in a complex strategic environment, being a 'first,' and the importance of relationships in national security. Kerri Hartland is the Director-General of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service. Dr Heather Smith PSM FAIIA is the National President of the Australian Institute of International Affairs. Heather Cook is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission. Meg Tapia is an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College.  TRANSCRIPTShow notes  NSC academic programs – find out more 2024 Independent Int

What is the relationship between national security and politics? How does national security policymaking differ from other areas of public policy?And how might the decline of major parties in Australia impact the national security policymaking process?In this episode, George Brandis – Australia's former Attorney-General and High Commissioner to the United kingdom – joins David Andrews to discuss the politics of national security policymaking.  Professor The Honourable George Brandis KC is a Professor in the Practice of National Security in a joint appoint to the ANU National Security College (NSC) and the ANU College of Law.  David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at NSC. TRANSCRIPTShow notes:  Listener survey: The National Security Podcast NSC academic programs – find out more We'd love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to NatSecPod@anu.edu.au. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on

What is the role of the Army in an era shaped by strategic competition?How is the Army adapting for wars of the future?Why is it important to build trust between the Army and Australian society? In this episode, Simon Stuart joins Rory Medcalf discuss the changing nature of warfare, and how the Australian Army is positioned to succeed in facing future challenges. Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC is Chief of the Australian Army.Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College (NSC). His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.TRANSCRIPT Show notes ·        Listener survey: The Nation Security Podcast ·        NSC academic programs – find out more  ·        Defence Strategic Review 2023 ·        Nation

How will automated systems and artificial intelligence change the nature of weaponry?What ethical issues are at play when we discuss lethal autonomous weapons? Can weapons be programmed to follow the laws of armed conflict?How does public literacy influence perceptions of weapons systems?In this episode, Zena Assaad and Lauren Sanders join Danielle Ireland-Piper to discuss weapons regulation, and how artificial intelligence and autonomous systems changes the arms landscape.Dr Zena Assaad is a Senior Research Fellow with the School of Engineering at the Australian National University (ANU).Dr Lauren Sanders is a Senior Research Fellow with the TC Beirne School of Law at the University of Queensland, in the Law and Future of War Project.Dr Danielle-Ireland Piper is Academic Director and Associate Professor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). TRANSCRIPTShow notesListener survey: The Nation Security Podcast NSC academic programs – find out more UN Report on Governing AI  EU AI Act