Marles Signals Potential Defence Spending Boost After Talks with US Counterpart
Australia's Defence Minister, Richard Marles, has indicated a willingness to consider increasing defence spending following a meeting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The discussions, focused on regional security challenges and China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific, have prompted Marles to acknowledge the possibility of bolstering Australia's defence budget.
During the meeting, Hegseth reportedly urged Marles to significantly enhance defence spending to better address the escalating strategic competition in the region. The US has consistently advocated for increased defence investment from its allies in the Indo-Pacific, arguing it's crucial for maintaining stability and deterring aggression.
While Marles stopped short of committing to a specific figure, he stated he wouldn't rule out the possibility of raising defence spending. “I wouldn’t put a number on it at this stage,