Australia and China face a new era, but are we ready?

Australia’s prosperity and security are linked to China as never before. But what kind of a country is China becoming? Will its demand for Australian goods and services increase? Can the Communist Party continue to keep the middle class satisfied while cracking down on political freedoms? How will China use its economic and military might, especially if challenged by President Trump?

China Matters is a concise overview of China today, and the implications for Australia. Written by Australia-based, internationally renowned China-watchers Bates Gill and Linda Jakobson, it examines the country’s unique dynamism and contradictions. It delves into everything from business ties to the growing influence of the Chinese government in Australia. It is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand China’s complexities and how Australia should respond to secure our future.

‘Cuts through the volatile mix of hype, hysteria and complacency surrounding the Middle Kingdom in Australia to sketch out a nuanced road map for dealing with Asia’s rising super power.’ —Richard McGregor

‘Australians must learn to live with China’s power. This is simply the best all-round guide we have for how to do this.’ —Hugh White

Bates Gill is Professor of Asia-Pacific Strategic Studies at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University. He is an internationally recognised China expert with 25 years’ experience as a scholar and policy adviser. Dr Gill has authored seven books and more than 100 other China-related publications, including Rising Star and China: The Balance Sheet.

Linda Jakobson is an award-winning, internationally recognised author of six books on China. A Mandarin speaker, she worked as a researcher and policy adviser in China for 22 years before moving to Sydney in 2011 to become East Asia Program Director at the Lowy Institute. In 2015 she founded China Matters, an Australian public policy initiative.  A Finnish national she is a permanent resident of Australia.