The Albanese government is facing mounting criticism over its silence on reports that Russia has approached Indonesia with a request to base long-range aircraft in the region — a move that, if true, would carry serious implications for Australia’s national security.
According to the Liberal party, more than 48 hours have passed since the Coalition formally requested a security briefing under caretaker conventions, yet no official response has been issued by the government. The request, sent on Tuesday to both Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles, sought clarification on the reports and any advice received from national security agencies.
In a strongly worded statement, the Opposition accused the government of failing its own test of transparency.
“Any approach to place Russian aircraft within short range of Australia is clearly a matter of critical national and strategic interest,” a senior Coalition spokesperson said.
“Australians deserve to know what the government knew, when it knew, and what advice it received from defence and intelligence agencies.”
The Prime Minister has so far declined to confirm whether his government had knowledge of Russia’s alleged request, instead offering broad statements about regional security and Australia’s relationship with Indonesia. Critics say the government’s refusal to directly answer whether it had prior knowledge of Russia’s diplomatic overtures to Jakarta only deepens concern.
“What we’re seeing is a shifty and evasive response to a very serious question,” the Coalition said.
“This isn’t politics — this is national security.”
Russian envoy confirms ‘discussions’: The urgency of the issue escalated following recent comments by Russia’s envoy to Jakarta, who confirmed that discussions had taken place between Russia and Indonesian officials. While Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto publicly ruled out any agreement to host Russian aircraft, the confirmation that talks were held has prompted alarm among Australian officials and foreign policy observers.
“The comments from Russia’s envoy in the last 24 hours demonstrate in stark terms the strategic importance of this matter,” the Coalition noted.
“It is irresponsible for the government to delay or dodge questions when the implications of such a development are so significant.”
Indonesia shares a northern maritime boundary with Australia, and any foreign military deployment in the archipelago would fundamentally alter the strategic balance in the region.
Coalition demands immediate briefing: Under caretaker conventions — which apply during the federal election period — opposition parties are entitled to receive confidential briefings on matters of national importance. The Coalition says it submitted its request in line with these provisions and is now demanding that the government uphold its obligation.
“There are serious questions the government appears to be dodging in the hope that the Easter break will see them swept under the rug,” a senior Opposition figure said.
“But this issue is not going away.”
The Albanese government has not publicly commented on the briefing request. Defence and Foreign Affairs officials have also remained tight-lipped.
The government’s handling of the issue comes at a time when questions over Australia’s preparedness and diplomatic agility in a shifting Indo-Pacific region are already under the spotlight.
Analysts say the possibility of Russian aircraft operating from within Southeast Asia, even if hypothetical, cannot be dismissed lightly. It would not only challenge Australia’s northern defence posture but also raise concerns among regional partners and allies in the Quad and AUKUS groupings.
Former defence officials have called on the government to be transparent and proactive, warning that any perception of secrecy could undermine public confidence and regional deterrence.
With just two weeks until the federal election, the matter is quickly becoming a test of trust and competence — one that the Opposition appears determined to keep on the national agenda.
“The public expects answers,” the Coalition concluded. “This is not about politics — this is about protecting Australia’s interests.”
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