CF of CANZUK statement on the 2025 Australian federal election

We would like to extend our congratulations to Anthony Albanese and the Australian Labor Party for their victory in yesterday’s Australian election. We hope to see Australia continue to deepen its ties with the CANZUK realms.

Australia’s interests are CANZUK’s interests. Threats to Australia are threats faced by the other CANZUK realms. Whilst Australia has an already close and vital relationship with the UK and New Zealand, we see areas of growth for CANZUK:

1.    Deeper economic ties

Australia has free trade agreements with Canada, the UK and New Zealand. These already strong ties can be deepened. Australia is a land of great resources, and in the international competition for them, it makes sense that the other realms – close and friendly countries – strike agreements in this area. Whether it be minerals or agricultural produce, the CANZUK realms represent a strong market to cultivate.

2.    Increased defence and security co-operation

Australia must balance its historic ties with the democratic world and the economic power of China. But, as we saw earlier this year, China is willing to flex its muscles by sailing a flotilla through the Tasman Sea. Increased interoperability will allow these four countries with very similar foreign policies to ensure their militaries can work together with ease. As we enter an era of increased defence spending, it makes sense to procure resources, equipment etc. from within the four realms.

3.    Cultural ties

Hundreds of thousands of Australians live in the other realms, and millions from the others live in Australia. These ties of people are the core of the true bonds which unite us: our common heritage. We should seek to strengthen these, for example by making it easier for students to study and work in each country.

A final note for Mr Dutton and the Liberal Party of Australia. We send our deepest commiserations. Opposition is never wanted, but now is the time to refresh your policy platform. CANZUK is a positive and popular policy proposal for the future.

We at the Conservative Friends of CANZUK will continue to strive towards making CANZUK a reality. We look forward to working with all in Australia to further this goal.

Signed

The Committee of the Conservative Friends of CANZUK