Australia is increasingly concerned about China's military might and its growing influence in the Pacific, prompting it to deepen its security relationship with the US, including joint military exercises like "Southern Jackaroo," increased US Marine deployments, and the Aukus nuclear submarine deal. However, China remains Australia's biggest trade partner, creating a complex geopolitical balancing act. A recent Lowy Institute poll found that 61% of Australians view China more as an economic partner than a security threat.