Pivoting the Map: Australia's Indo-Pacific System

In the inaugural Centre of Gravity paper, Rory Medcalf, of the Lowy Institute for International Policy explores what is the best way to describe Australia's region. Medcalf argues that the concept of an 'Indo-Pacific' best captures the strategic environment Australia finds itself in. This concept better recognises the major economic, security and identity challenges faced by Australia. It also places Australia in a prime position to involve itself in the development of the region. Finally, Medcalf explores the surprisingly longstanding history of the concept, and highlights its policy relevance for Australia.