Overview

• A photo distributed by Russian state outlet Sputnik shows Andrews standing several rows behind the leaders during the 80th-anniversary event in Beijing.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia attended via a diplomat, and reports noted ambassador Scott Dewar was out of the country.
• Victorian minister Vicki Ward said Andrews was acting in a private capacity and not on behalf of the government.
• Opposition figures Andrew Hastie and Sussan Ley condemned the appearance, calling the parade a “parade for dictators” and pressing Andrews to explain his presence.
• Former NSW premier Bob Carr was in Beijing for other engagements but skipped the parade photo opportunity as China showcased advanced military hardware in Tiananmen Square.