A new report from the Lowy Institute indicates China’s capacity to conduct a direct missile strike on Australia is increasing. The study highlights China’s development of long-range and hypersonic weapons, alongside infrastructure projects in the South China Sea, as key factors. The primary threat is identified as missiles launched from Chinese naval vessels, submarines, and a newly developed intermediate-range ballistic missile. Researchers predict this capability will continue to expand over the next ten years. The report assesses that Australia is within range of these evolving weapons systems. This assessment raises concerns about the changing strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific region and Australia’s defense preparedness.