A powerful national security leader has warned the 'drums of war' are beating closer as tensions with China escalate, as he declares Australia must do whatever it takes to protect 'our precious liberty'.
Home Affairs Secretary Michael Pezzullo said in his Anzac Day message on Sunday while Australia should always search for peace, it must also be prepared to 'send off our warriors to fight the nation's wars'.
He added free nations 'must remain armed, strong and ready for war, even as they lament the curse of war.'
His comments came on the same day Defence minister Peter Dutton said conflict between China and Taiwan 'should not be discounted' as the communist nation had ramped up its military activity as it sought reunification.