URGENT UPDATE: Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott has issued a stark warning about Australia’s future, declaring the nation is in a ‘national crisis’ and must act swiftly on defence, the economy, and social cohesion. Speaking on January 5, 2026, during an episode of John Anderson’s podcast, Abbott voiced his concerns, stating, ‘Economically, we’re in decline. Socially, we’re more divided than we’ve been for years.’
Abbott’s alarming assessment highlights a critical moment for Australia as he points to a strategic decline that endangers the nation’s security. He emphasized that without urgent government intervention, Australia’s freedom and prosperity are at serious risk.
Identifying three pressing priorities—national security, justice, and economic strength—Abbott criticized current policymakers for what he termed ‘intergenerational theft’. He claimed Australia is ‘borrowing from children unborn’, placing an unfair tax burden on future generations. “If you want social harmony, you have to have justice,” he stated, urging a return to economic models that support sustainable living.
On the topic of social unity, Abbott argued that “unity must come before diversity.” He emphasized the need to preserve the Anglo-Celtic culture and Judeo-Christian ethos that he believes form the backbone of Australian society. “Migrants didn’t come here to live the same life they had back home. They came for a better life,” he added.
Abbott did not hold back in his criticism of the Albanese Government for redirecting $80 billion from short-term defence capabilities to longer-term AUKUS projects, labeling the decision as ‘grossly inadequate.’ He remarked, ‘You can’t claim these are dangerous times and then preside over an actual decline in our capabilities.’
He called for immediate enhancements to the military, including the acquisition of two new squadrons of F-35s and a more robust naval presence. Abbott noted that Australia is currently 5,000 personnel short of its military establishment numbers and urged the government to move rapidly to rectify this.
On defence spending, Abbott mentioned the Albanese Government’s plan to increase the budget by an additional $50.3 billion over the next decade, aiming for 2.3% of GDP by the early 2030s. However, security experts warn this allocation is insufficient given escalating regional threats. The United States has suggested that Australia should target 3% of GDP for defence to maintain its military capabilities.
Abbott’s remarks come at a pivotal time, as tensions grow in the Asia-Pacific region. He reiterated that the government must abandon its current strategy of ‘analysis paralysis’ and take decisive action now to fortify the nation’s defence and economic foundations. “Make decisions, get things done,” he urged, highlighting the urgency for Australia to secure its future.
As these developments unfold, the Australian public and policymakers are urged to consider Abbott’s calls for immediate action to prevent further decline and ensure a secure and prosperous future for all Australians.
