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Australia is an island continent which even prior to becoming an independent state upon Federation in 1901 had a rich history in maritime affairs. Since that time Australia has maintained an increasing focus on maritime security, particularly expanding in recent years in response to contemporary events. Part of this interest has been driven by history and Australia's partial inheritance of British traditions and perspectives on maritime affairs, reinforced by the maritime threats Australia faced during World War II such as the battle of the Coral Sea. I It is also driven by geography, given Australia's unique position as the largest island which is also a continent remotely located from many other land masses and with no land bridge to other territories. Every journey undertaken to Australia and, perhaps more significantly for present purposes, all trade must be undertaken by sea or over the sea. |
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