Dutton pledges 3% defense spending boost if elected

Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton has pledged to significantly increase defense spending if his Liberal-National Coalition wins the May 3 election, proposing a two-stage plan to raise the defense budget to 2.5% of GDP by 2030 and 3% within a decade. Dutton’s plan includes an immediate A$21 billion boost over five years, the reinstatement of a fourth squadron of F-35A fighter jets, and expanded access for the US military in northern Australia, reflecting alignment with US calls for allies to bolster their own security. He has criticized the current Labor government for inadequate defense investment and for failing to address recruitment and retention issues within the Australian Defence Force. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Albanese’s Labor government cites its commitment to the AUKUS pact and a long-term plan to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, but has not pledged new defense funding in the latest budget. The debate over defense spending comes amid heightened national security concerns and ongoing questions about the reliability and pace of the AUKUS submarine agreement. Recent polling suggests Dutton is viewed as the stronger leader on defense, despite his overall approval ratings being low.