MEDIA RELEASE: 9 February 2026

In a letter to the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the Australian Peace and Security Forum (APSF) has called for a public review of Australia’s international relations, including its alliance with the United States.  APSF also calls for the government to urgently review the AUKUS submarine agreement inherited from the Morrison Government.

The letter highlights recent actions by the United States, including the incursion into Venezuela and abduction of President Maduro, threats to take over Greenland, and renewed threats to bomb Iran all of which are contrary to the UN Charter and the rules of international behaviour. These actions replace the “international rules-based order” with “might is right,” “international law with lawlessness.”

APSF quoted Canadian Prime Minster Mark Carney from his recent speech to the World Economic Forum, “We are in the midst of a rupture, not a transition.”  “The old order is not coming back” and “this rupture calls for more than adaptation,” according to PM Carney.

Because of these radical changes, APSF calls for Australia to rethink our foreign policy and national security in light of the new circumstances.  “Our country urgently needs a comprehensive peace and security strategy, and Australians should have an opportunity to contribute to the rethink through a public inquiry.  Australia’s foreign policy must focus on promoting peace in our region, and we should aim to become more independent” commented APSF Co-President Dr Matilda Byrne.

“The United States of today is not only unpredictable and firmly dedicated to its own self-interest but is also totally different to the one that shared Australia’s commitment to the United Nations, universal values and a global rules-based order,” explained Emeritus Professor Ian Lowe AO, APSF Co-President.

An urgent review of the AUKUS agreement is necessary because “the eye-watering cost of this agreement, with no guarantee we will ever receive a submarine, is not supported by the Australian people.”

The enormous funds could be better spent rebalancing our defence force, tackling climate disruption, boosting social housing, improving education, and strengthening Medicare and the hospital system for the benefit of all Australians as well as Closing the Gap for First Nations people.

Contact for comment:  Emeritus Prof Ian Lowe, Co-President APSF    Mob: 0427 278 432

9 February 2026

The APSF is a not-for-profit Think Tank bringing together a broad network of informed researchers, professionals and practitioners working to strengthen peace and security for all Australians by providing information, analysis and opportunities for dialogue with Government and civil society.  For more information about APSF, visit our website: austpeaceandsecurityforum