Is Australia charting its own defence course—or simply meeting U.S. demands? Dr. John Bruni speaks with strategist Dr. Peter Layton on AUKUS, strategic autonomy, and Australia’s evolving role in the Indo-Pacific.

Show Notes:

Contact Peter Layton on:

Griffith Asia Institute: p.layton@griffith.edu.au

LinkedIn

X: @GAIGriffith

Peter’s Top Five publications:

Ensuring Australia’s Defence Through Complex Interdependence (May 2025)

In this article, Dr. Layton advocates for a shift in Australia's grand strategy towards complex interdependence. He argues that by building robust connections with multiple countries, Australia can enhance its resilience against strategic, economic, technological, and societal shocks.

Australia’s First National Defence Strategy: Deterrence Rules (2024)

Dr. Layton analyses Australia's inaugural National Defence Strategy, emphasising its focus on deterrence. He critiques the strategy's approach and discusses its implications for Australia's defence posture in a rapidly changing strategic environment.

Evolution Not Revolution: Defence AI in Australia (2024)

In this chapter, Dr. Layton examines Australia's approach to integrating artificial intelligence into defence capabilities. He argues for an evolutionary path that enhances existing systems, emphasising the importance of human-machine teaming.

Being Prepared for Unprecedented Times: National Mobilisation Conceptualisations and Their Implications (2021)

Commissioned by the Australian Department of Defence, this paper explores how Australia can conceptualise and implement national mobilisation strategies in response to emerging security challenges. It offers insights into resilience planning and whole-of-nation defence approaches.

Grand Strategy (2018)

In this book, Dr. Layton presents a practical framework for developing grand strategy, integrating international relations theory with real-world policymaking. The book is recognised for its clarity and applicability, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and practitioners.

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