China may resume 'wolf warrior' diplomacy in Australia with new ambassador

China appears poised to reintroduce its assertive "wolf warrior" diplomatic style in Australia, with reports suggesting the appointment of a new, more hardline ambassador.

Liu Jinsong, currently the Director-General of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is rumored to be the leading candidate. Liu gained notoriety last year for his perceived flippant demeanor during a meeting with Japanese officials, a moment captured by media cameras.

The current ambassador, Xiao Qian, who has served over four years, is reportedly preparing to depart. Xiao oversaw a period of stabilization in Sino-Australian relations following a deep freeze during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Beijing imposed severe trade sanctions on the Morrison government. The lifting of these sanctions, including on Australian lobster and beef, marked the end of China's trade restrictions late last year.

However, recent events have again strained ties. China's People's Liberation Army launched a nuclear-capable missile into the Pacific earlier this month. Furthermore, Xiao Qian recently criticized Australian security agencies, accusing them of fabricating espionage allegations and denying Chinese foreign interference.

The potential appointment of Liu Jinsong signals a possible return to a more confrontational diplomatic approach, reminiscent of the period under the Morrison government. This comes amidst heightened global scrutiny of China's strategic expansion, particularly following the 10th anniversary of a Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling against Beijing's South China Sea claims. The fragile easing of relations between the Albanese government and Beijing faces another test with Taiwan's proposal to establish a new unofficial consular office in Western Australia, a move China has strongly opposed.