Sydney Rotary - Who’s afraid of big, bad China?

In her thought-provoking address, Professor Jocelyn Chey challenges prevailing fears about China, arguing that Australia's security and prosperity depend not on confrontation, but on carefully managed cooperation with the emerging superpower. While recent political campaigns have shied away from addressing foreign policy challenges, particularly the implications of AUKUS and Australia’s escalating defence spending, Professor Chey highlights how both major parties have failed to explain the broader geopolitical context. She critiques their silence on China, suggesting that avoiding honest discussion about global risks such as recession, climate change, and shifting power balances only undermines public trust and policy preparedness.

Professor Chey contrasts the consistency and stability of China’s diplomatic stance with the unpredictability and isolationist posture of the Trump administration, cautioning against an uncritical alignment with US strategic interests. She argues that China’s global integration, focus on economic development, and commitment to multilateralism offer opportunities—if approached with mutual respect. While acknowledging the complexities of China's regional ambitions, she urges Australia to adopt a pragmatic, informed, and regionally coordinated approach, learning from ASEAN neighbours. In closing, she reminds us that true fear lies not in engagement with China, but in failing to rise to the challenge of shaping a cooperative, peaceful future in a changing world.

Jocelyn Chey is Visiting Professor at the University of Sydney and Adjunct Professor at Western Sydney University and UTS. She formerly held diplomatic posts in China and Hong Kong. She is a member of the Order of Australia (AM) and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of International Affairs.