‘Fuel on the fire’: war of words between Australia and China stokes tension

Scott Morrison wants to pursue peace' but drums of war' speeches from his government have raised hackles

Scott Morrison says Australia's defence policies are designed to pursue peace" - but some analysts are worried the increasingly stark warnings from his government about the threat of a military clash with China could fuel panic.

I think while there are good reasons to increase our defence spending and to raise public awareness of the challenges that loom in our region, there are also real risks that come from causing panic and hysteria," says Natasha Kassam, the director of the Lowy Institute's public opinion and foreign policy program.