The mouse that roared

Australia is a small country, and while we may appear distant or small to our western neighbours, when our voice is heard, it carries weight – real weight. 

As political divisiveness dominates American and European discourse, Anthony Albanese has emerged as a steady and effective Prime Minister, prioritising Australia’s national interest over personal ideology. His leadership has done more than stabilise interest rates; he has lessened discord and expanded the political middle ground. 

The Doomsday Clock now sits at 89 seconds to midnight. The continuing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, escalating tensions across the Middle East, Donald Trump’s tariff war, and worsening climate events have all contributed to volatile global relations and a fractured international landscape. 

In the midst of this, the Prime Minister has been able to constructively engage with European leaders like UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and France’s President Emmanuel Macron, and finally secured a pivotal meeting with US President Donald Trump. At home, his Labor Party is united by a disciplined frontbench, an astute treasurer, and a band of talented, newly elected MPs who are beyond motivated to represent their constituents. 

In the limelight, Albanese is demonstrating what effective governance looks like: principled, pragmatic and respectful. In an era of volatility, this kind of leadership is not only refreshing but also a message to other leaders, showing that a nation’s voice abroad is inherently linked to its strength at home.

Australia might not be immune to culture wars or cost-of-living pressures, but we should never lose sight of what makes us uniquely Australian: level-headedness and rationality.

Our population barely exceeds 28 million, we have one of the lowest population densities globally, we exist in a perpetual state of geographic isolation – over 23 hours from London and 15 hours from LA – and our military spending is only $33.8 billion with 80,000 military personnel, compared with the USA’s $997 billion industry and 2.1 million personnel.

But above all, we should proudly salute the stability of our moderate political discourse and strong belief in the rule of law, especially amid intensifying global instability.

Australia’s tobacco plain-packaging legislation has become a global standard, and our under-16 social media ban, although controversial, has gained international traction, with the UK exploring similar measures. In addition, Albanese’s brainchild – the Future Made in Australia initiative – marks a strategic pivot, positioning Australia as a model for innovation and sustainable economic transformation.

Despite its size, Australia commands attention. Recent policies, values and diplomatic stances have resonated globally and strengthened our reputation as a stable, thoughtful actor in international affairs. Whether defending our economic interests or standing up for the little guy, Australia and Anthony Albanese have shown that principled leadership and considerate engagement can amplify influence far beyond our borders.

We may be a small country, but when we speak, the world listens.