Australian Sovereignty: Steps to Regain Independence

By Denis Hay

Description

Learn how Australian sovereignty can be reclaimed while mitigating U.S. influence. Explore actionable steps for independence without retaliation.

Introduction

Breaking Free: How Australia Can Regain Sovereignty from the USA? Australia’s relationship with the United States has long been viewed as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. However, this “friendship” often works on conditional terms, where Australia must align with U.S. military and corporate interests or risk consequences.

History proves how the U.S. enforces compliance, punishing countries that deviate from its agenda. This article explores these coercive practices and provides actionable steps for Australia to regain its sovereignty without inviting harm.

 

Historical Examples of U.S. Coercion

Economic Coercion and Sanctions

The United States often uses economic sanctions as a tool to isolate nations that oppose its policies. These sanctions are often justified under the guise of promoting democracy, human rights, or global security, but their impacts frequently result in widespread humanitarian crises and economic instability for the targeted nations.

Cuba: Subjected to a 60-year economic blockade, Cuba has endured severe shortages of essential goods, including food and medicine. The blockade has significantly hindered Cuba’s economic development and its ability to trade freely with other nations, contributing to long-term poverty and social challenges. Despite international condemnation and repeated UN resolutions against the embargo, the U.S. continues to enforce strict sanctions.

Venezuela: The U.S. has imposed numerous sanctions targeting Venezuela’s oil-dependent economy, crippling its primary source of revenue. These sanctions have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis, limiting the country’s ability to import critical goods, including medical supplies. The resulting economic collapse has led to hyperinflation, mass emigration, and widespread food insecurity. While the U.S. claims its actions target corrupt leadership, the Venezuelan people bear the brunt of the sanctions.

Iran: Sanctions on Iran have effectively cut it off from the global financial system, particularly through measures targeting its banking and energy sectors. These actions, tied to Iran’s nuclear program, have constrained its economic growth and restricted access to foreign investment. The sanctions have also limited Iran’s ability to import humanitarian goods, leading to significant hardships for its population. Despite the intent to pressure the Iranian government, ordinary citizens have suffered disproportionately.

In all these cases, the U.S. has leveraged its dominance in global finance and trade to isolate nations diplomatically and economically. The long-term consequences often include weakened healthcare systems, reduced educational opportunities, and a diminished quality of life for citizens.

These sanctions, while ostensibly aimed at governments, frequently amount to collective punishment, raising ethical concerns about their implementation and impact.

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) has played a crucial role in supporting countries affected by illegal US sanctions through various economic, financial, and diplomatic mechanisms. Here’s how BRICS has helped:

1. De-dollarization & Alternative Payment Systems

• BRICS has been working to reduce dependence on the US dollar by promoting trade in local currencies.

• China and Russia have signed agreements to trade using the yuan and ruble, bypassing SWIFT.

• The BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) helps stabilize member economies facing financial crises triggered by US sanctions.

2. New Development Bank (NDB) Funding

• The NDB, set up by BRICS, provides loans to sanctioned nations without the strict conditions of Western institutions like the IMF and World Bank.

• It has funded infrastructure and development projects in nations targeted by the US, preventing economic collapse.

3. Oil and Energy Trade Without the Dollar

• BRICS members, especially China, Russia, and India, have continued trading oil and gas with sanctioned nations like Iran and Venezuela.

• India increased its purchase of Russian oil in rupees, reducing the impact of sanctions.

4. Trade and Economic Support

• BRICS members provide trade and investment partnerships to sanctioned states, keeping their economies afloat.

• Example: China and Russia have strengthened economic ties with Iran despite US sanctions.

5. Diplomatic Protection & Geopolitical Backing

• BRICS has actively challenged unilateral US sanctions in international forums, calling them illegal under international law.

• Russia and China have used their UN Security Council positions to block Western attempts to isolate sanctioned countries.

6. Expansion to Include Sanctioned Nations

• BRICS has invited countries affected by sanctions, such as Iran, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia, to join.

• This expansion strengthens their collective ability to resist economic coercion.

BRICS has provided financial lifelines, alternative trade mechanisms, and political support to countries suffering under US sanctions. By building a multipolar world, BRICS is reducing the US’s ability to weaponize the dollar and ensuring economic sovereignty for nations targeted by Western economic warfare.

Here are specific examples of how BRICS has helped countries affected by US illegal sanctions, particularly Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba:

1. Iran: Bypassing Sanctions & Economic Cooperation Challenges

• Iran has faced severe US sanctions on its oil exports, banking sector, and trade since the US withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA) in 2018.

• Sanctions targeted Iran’s access to SWIFT, making it difficult to receive international payments.

How BRICS Helped:

✅ Trade in Local Currencies – China and Russia continued trading with Iran in yuan and rubles, bypassing the US dollar and SWIFT.

✅ Oil Trade & Investment – China signed a $400 billion, 25-year strategic deal with Iran, securing energy imports despite US pressure.

✅ BRICS Expansion – Iran was officially invited to join BRICS in 2023, boosting its access to alternative financial systems and reducing dependence on the West.

2. Venezuela: Support Against Economic Warfare Challenges

• The US imposed harsh sanctions on Venezuela’s oil industry, particularly targeting PDVSA (Venezuela’s state oil company).

• Venezuelan assets, including $7 billion in reserves held in US banks, were frozen.

How BRICS Helped:

✅ China & Russia Increased Oil Purchases –

• China bought Venezuelan crude oil under the radar, bypassing US sanctions.

• Russia’s Rosneft helped Venezuela sell oil to Asia, avoiding Western financial controls.

✅ Financial & Humanitarian Aid –

• China provided $5 billion in loans to Venezuela to stabilize its economy.

• Russia sent food, medicine, and vaccines when the US blocked international aid.

✅ BRICS Bank (NDB) Support –

• Venezuela has sought alternative funding through BRICS partners instead of relying on Western financial institutions (IMF, World Bank).

3. Cuba: Banking & Trade Solutions Challenges

• The US embargo on Cuba restricts its access to international banking, food imports, and technology.

• Cuban banks face US sanctions, limiting their ability to process payments.

How BRICS Helped:

✅ Russia & China Strengthened Economic Ties –

• China has invested in Cuban energy and infrastructure projects.

• Russia supplied food, oil, and medical aid, bypassing US restrictions.

✅ Financial System Alternatives –

• Cuba is working with BRICS countries to develop non-dollar-based trade mechanisms.

• Russia and China have helped Cuba upgrade its digital banking systems, reducing reliance on Western-controlled financial networks.

✅ Support in International Forums –

• BRICS countries regularly oppose US sanctions on Cuba at the United Nations, isolating the US on the global stage.

BRICS as a Shield Against US Sanctions

BRICS has played a pivotal role in protecting sanctioned nations from economic collapse by:

✔️ Providing alternative trade mechanisms (local currency settlements).

✔️ Offering financial support & loans (without Western political conditions).

✔️ Helping nations access energy, food, and essential supplies.

✔️ Challenging US hegemony through diplomatic alliances and economic integration.

As BRICS expands, its role as a counterbalance to US economic coercion will only grow stronger.

Political Destabilization and Regime Change

The U.S. has a long history of orchestrating regime changes to install compliant governments, often prioritising corporate and strategic interests over democratic principles. Notable examples include:

• Chile (1973): The CIA supported a coup against Salvador Allende, the democratically elected president, due to his socialist policies. The result was decades of authoritarian rule under Augusto Pinochet, marked by human rights abuses and economic policies favouring U.S. corporations.

• Iraq (2003): Despite the lack of evidence linking Iraq to weapons of mass destruction, the U.S. invaded, leading to widespread instability, the rise of extremist groups like ISIS, and hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths.

• Guatemala (1954): Jacobo Árbenz’s government, which sought to redistribute unused land owned by the U.S.-based United Fruit Company, was overthrown in a coup backed by the CIA. The aftermath included decades of civil war and economic stagnation.

In these instances, regime change was often justified through the rhetoric of promoting democracy or fighting communism. However, the real motives often aligned with protecting U.S. economic interests or keeping geopolitical dominance. As voters, we need to ask “why are we allowing governments to hand over Australian sovereignty to this “rogue” nation, the USA?

Military Aggression and Threats

Military intervention is still a central tool in the U.S. strategy to enforce compliance and project power. Key examples include:

• Vietnam War (1955-1975): The U.S. entered Vietnam to prevent the spread of communism, leading to widespread devastation. The war caused millions of deaths and left the region scarred using chemical agents like Agent Orange.

• Libya (2011): A NATO-led intervention, driven by U.S. aims, resulted in the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi. While framed as a mission to protect civilians, the intervention left Libya fractured, with ongoing conflict and a thriving human trafficking network.

• Afghanistan (2001-2021): Initially launched to dismantle al-Qaeda after the 9/11 attacks, the U.S. occupation became a prolonged effort to reshape Afghanistan. The withdrawal in 2021 exposed the fragility of the Afghan government, leading to a rapid Taliban resurgence.

Military threats also play a significant role in coercing nations. The U.S. has often conducted military exercises near adversaries, such as China and North Korea, to display its power and intimidate opposition. This approach not only escalates tensions but also undermines global stability.

What can Australia learn from this? Can Australian sovereignty be regained by minimising threats from the USA?

Australia’s Current Dependence on the USA

Strategic and Defence Alliances

Australia’s alignment with the U.S. is cemented through agreements like AUKUS, which integrates Australia into the U.S. military-industrial complex. This reliance limits Australia’s ability to pursue an independent foreign policy.

This is what Australia is letting itself into, a manufactured war with China, who are no threat to Australia. Successive Australian governments have given away Australian sovereignty to the aggressive U.S. military.

Economic Ties and Corporate Influence

Trade agreements such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) have embedded U.S. corporate interests in Australian law, often to the detriment of local businesses and workers. U.S. multinational corporations dominate key sectors, further entrenching dependence.

Practical Steps to Regain Australian Sovereignty

Diversify Strategic Alliances

• Strengthen ties with non-aligned nations like Indonesia, India, and Japan.

• Actively take part in regional organisations such as ASEAN to reduce reliance on Western powers.

Strengthen Economic Independence

• Support local industries through targeted investments and subsidies.

• Renegotiate trade agreements to prioritise Australian interests.

• Establish sovereign wealth funds to secure resources and build economic resilience.

Develop an Independent Foreign Policy

• Close U.S. military bases in Australia to reduce undue influence.

• Advocate for neutral stances in global conflicts, focusing on peace building rather than military alliances.

Focus on National Defence Capability

• Invest in advanced defence technologies developed domestically.

• Prioritise cybersecurity to safeguard critical infrastructure from external threats.

Mitigating U.S. Retaliation

Build Public and Political Consensus

Public awareness is key to fostering resilience against external coercion. Australian citizens must be informed about the risks of over-reliance on the U.S. and the benefits of Australian sovereignty. Bipartisan support for policies prioritising independence can create a united front against foreign interference.

Overcoming Hostile Opposition

Gaining consensus in a polarised political environment, especially with a hostile LNP opposition, requires strategic action:

• Transparency: Clearly articulate the benefits of sovereignty to the public, emphasising how independence aligns with national interests.

• Engage Stakeholders: Collaborate with unions, advocacy groups, and independent media to create grassroots support.

• Expose Partisan Tactics: Highlight how opposition tactics often serve vested interests rather than the public.

• Leverage Cross bench Alliances: Work with minor parties and independents to build a coalition for reform, sidestepping traditional partisan gridlock.

Reducing Right-Wing Factional Power in Labor

The dominance of right-wing factions within Labor often compromises progressive policies. Overcoming this internal barrier requires:

• Grassroots Mobilisation: Empower rank-and-file party members to demand transparency and accountability in factional decision-making.

• Internal Reforms: Advocate for democratic processes within the party to reduce the disproportionate influence of right-wing factions.

• Strengthen Progressive Alliances: Build coalitions with progressive think tanks, unions, and community organisations to counterbalance right-wing narratives.

• Policy Focus: Promote evidence-based policies that resonate with Australians, sidelining factional agendas that prioritise vested interests over public good.

Use International Support

• Collaborate with nations advocating for reduced U.S. dominance, such as members of the Non-Aligned Movement.

• Use international forums like the United Nations to promote Australia’s commitment to peace and sovereignty.

• Build coalitions with middle-power nations to amplify Australia’s voice in global governance.

Focus on Soft Power

• Strengthen Australia’s global image by leading in climate change initiatives, cultural diplomacy, and humanitarian aid.

• Expand soft power influence through education, highlighting Australian universities as hubs for international talent.

• Promote Australia’s values of fairness, equality, and innovation to build goodwill globally.

Conclusion

Australia’s conditional friendship with the U.S. poses significant challenges to its sovereignty. By diversifying alliances, building economic independence, and pursuing an independent foreign policy, Australia can chart its path to true sovereignty.

These steps must be taken cautiously, with strategies to mitigate potential U.S. retaliation.

What do you think? How can Australian sovereignty be regained, and how can we assert our independence while supporting international peace?

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This article was originally published on Social Justice Australia.

 

Also by Denis Hay: Military Spending vs Social Services: Australia’s Paradox

 

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