Australia’s External Affairs Power

The expansion of the scope of the external affairs power since Federation mirrors the growing independence of Australia from the Crown of the United Kingdom and its transition to nationhood.  Do you agree or disagree? Discuss.

Australia’s External Affairs Power

Firstly, the external affairs power was not explicitly provided for in the Constitution when it was drafted in the late 19th century. It was added as an amendment during the drafting process, reflecting a growing recognition that Australia needed to have a greater say in its own foreign affairs. This change was driven in part by the desire to establish Australia as a more independent nation, distinct from its former colonial status.

The history of the transformation of Australia’s foreign policy highlights the fact that de jure change does not necessarily result in de facto change. Australia did not exercise the theoretical powers it had gradually acquired to pursue an independent foreign policy in practice, until a decisive moment of crisis. For various understandable reasons, Australia still preferred having a link to Westminster. Only upon realizing the potential benefit from closer ties to the US, did Australia take full advantage of independence and achieve de facto autonomy.

Coming back to the present of Brexit. Whilst acknowledging again that these are two different contextual scenarios, the history of Australia’s independence suggests that de jure power to formulate independent (foreign) policy does not necessarily guarantee that this will be exercised immediately. Britain has been pro-active in envisioning a revitalized foreign policy and exploring trade deals post-Brexit. Yet, leaving a political union after decades, it  might take some time in re-adjusting policies, in addition to the various other domestic matters  to contend with. Hence, we should not be surprised if independence is achieved gradually.