Foreign Minister Penny Wong has advised former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews to be "mindful" of the implications of his attendance at a large military parade in Beijing earlier this week. The event, held on Wednesday, commemorated the defeat of Japan in World War II and was attended by several authoritarian leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

The Coalition has strongly criticized Andrews for his participation, arguing that it lent international legitimacy to China's display. They have called on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to denounce Andrews' actions. In response to inquiries about the situation, Wong refrained from directly criticizing Andrews but emphasized the importance of being aware of the messages conveyed by attending such events.

"Obviously I speak for Australia and the Australian government, I don't speak for private individuals," Wong stated. "But I think, I hope, that we all should be mindful of the message that our presence and engagement sends. I certainly am."

Wong highlighted that Australia chose not to send any politicians or its ambassador to the parade, contrasting this decision with the previous anniversary parade in 2015, which was attended by a minister from the Coalition government. "I would emphasize that Australia made a decision to be represented at the embassy staff level," she added.

Wong's comments came during a visit to Tokyo, where she was joined by Defence Minister Richard Marles for the annual 2 + 2 meeting with Japanese officials. Both Australia and Japan have expressed concern over China's significant military expansion and closely monitored the recent parade. Marles described the event as a "very significant display of Chinese military capability."

He noted an increasing cooperation between China, Russia, and North Korea, which he characterized as part of a complex strategic landscape. Marles stated that Australia is responding by strengthening ties with allies like Japan and accelerating efforts to modernize its defense forces.

"Where that leads us is clearly seeing that our interest lies in ensuring that we are firstly asserting the rules-based order, and secondly, making our contribution to the peace and stability of the region in which we live," he said.

This high-level meeting follows Australia's announcement of a $10 billion deal to purchase Japanese-made Mogami-class frigates, marking Japan's largest defense export. Marles indicated that the contract for the warships would be finalized early next year, with the first three frigates built in Japan for swift delivery, while the remaining eight will be constructed in Australia. He emphasized that the selection of the Mogami frigate was based on its suitability for the Australian navy and would enhance the strategic partnership between Australia and Japan.