Australia's Arms Deals

Data released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute on Monday shows Australia is now the world’s second biggest arms importer behind only Saudi Arabia, up from fourth the year prior.

Australia’s growing involvement in the international arms trade is frequently shrouded in secrecy. The government has routinely blocked freedom of information requests for documents on arms deals, including weapons exports to countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, by citing national security or potential harm to international relations. The secrecy has extended to major arms purchases – including of the new $50bn submarine fleet – which have helped make Australia one of the biggest arms importers in the world

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/sep/30/australia-hid-documents-about-submarine-deal-to-avoid-offending-japan