Morrison was a key figure in the creation of AUKUS, and made a surprise appearance at a congressional committee on Thursday (AEST), where he warned Australia should remain vigilant.

“There are some irreconcilable differences between an authoritarian regime in China… and the activities of free and open states,” he told the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

“We have to be clear and not pretend that… somehow this is going to be resolved through discussion… If we think that that is going to produce a change in the mindset in Beijing about what their objectives are, then we’re frankly kidding ourselves.

“I would highlight the need to never become casual about the potential threat and to remain vigilant.”

Morrison, who was Prime Minister between 2018-2022, had a tense and at times tumultuous relationship with Beijing, culminating in high tariffs slapped on Australian products and a diplomatic freeze.

Morrison was adamant his strong stance against China was correct.

“I am pleased our government provided the example of resistance and resilience, by standing firm, rather than acquiescence and appeasement,” he said.

He also took aim at Albanese, accusing him of neglecting other areas of defence.

Labor has axed billions in defence spending, but still spends 2 per cent of GDP on defence, with an aim to increase this to 2.3 per cent by 2033.

It also pledged to spend $368 billion on AUKUS over three decades in April 2023.

“It wasn’t [meant to be] ‘AUKUS instead’, it was ‘AUKUS as well’,” he said.

“And ‘AUKUS as well’ was at least going to add another half a per cent of GDP, at least… [or] possibly more.”