Overview

• Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews attended a Chinese military parade in Beijing and appeared in an official group photo with Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un and other leaders.
• In a written statement, he said engaging China serves Australia’s economic interests, reaffirmed his condemnation of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and denounced Iran’s actions.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese distanced the government, stating Australia sent no senior representative and that no member of his team would have taken that seat.
• Victoria’s leadership split, with Premier Jacinta Allan highlighting his standing in China as helpful for trade while Deputy Premier Ben Carroll called the photo “not worth it” and questioned the motive.
• Additional blowback included the Australian Ukrainian Congress urging an apology, former trade minister Andrew Robb labelling the decision “deeply selfish,” and Bob Carr opting out of the parade and photo.