"Post 2008, the international community has once again experienced a period of heightened volatility with a number of nations struggling to contain the fall out of the global financial crisis. Although comparatively less affected than some European nations, the Asia-Pacific also is witnessing a certain amount of instability. Australia, as a trading nation is not immune to these changes. The undeniable fact is that the security environment in the Asia-Pacific will be impacted by the economic stability or otherwise of its constituent nations. Australia's security and prosperity is underwritten by its economic stability and its ability to develop its trade and commerce further. This can only be ensured through making its trade routes, especially the sea lanes through which its trade flourishes, safe and open. In other words Australia's continued security is dependent on the safety and security of the ocean commons. It is therefore, not surprising that Australia's defense strategy has always been built on a national maritime strategy. This paper examines Australia's strategic interests and outlook from a strategic perspective and puts forward some views on its security perceptions. In contextualising Australia's maritime strategy within the ongoing developments in the Asia-Pacific region, this paper serves a useful purpose."--page iv.

Introduction -- Australia's strategic interests. A secure Australia -- A secure immediate neighborhood -- Strategic stability in the Asia-Pacific Region -- A stable, rules-based global security order -- Factors affecting Australia's strategic outlook. The role of the United States in the Asia-Pacific Region -- The status of the south Pacific nations -- The shift of global economic activity to the Asia-Pacific -- The stability of Indonesia -- The strategic implications of the rise of China -- An Australia perspective of its security. The need for a maritime strategy -- Further security perceptions -- Conclusion.