China Matters

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

‘For all its modern gloss, China is scarcely less strangely and severely governed by today’s communist elite than it was under imperial dynasties. Yet its connections and influence have already become ubiquitous in Australia today, bringing great opportunity but also risk. This should command the educated attention of all Australians. That is why China matters. That is why China Matters matters.’ —Rowan Callick, author of Party Time: Who Runs China and How

‘For an Australia increasingly divided between a reliance on China for its future prosperity, and an apprehension about what a powerful China means for its security and values, China Matters is a timely intervention. Deeply knowledgeable, engagingly argued, and most importantly wise and balanced, this book should be read by all Australians who think seriously about their country’s future.’ —Michael Wesley, author of Restless Continent: Wealth, Rivalry and Asia’s New Geopolitics