As I see itAustralia’s May 21 election: Has campaign rhetoric demonising Russia and China normalised domestic racism and suspicions?

As politicians focus on ‘invisible enemies’ and pursuing ‘national security’, a battle against discrimination and racism is tearing through Australian society

During Anzac day, which is dedicated to peace and remembering Australia’s war dead, Su-Lin Tan was accused of ‘invading her own country’

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The National flag of Australia flies above the Opera house in Sydney Australia. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 4:00am, 29 Apr 2022Updated: 5:02am, 29 Apr 2022

The drums of war refuse to stop beating down under.

But while the war over “invisible enemies” remains an imagination, another “war” is tearing through civil Australian society: that of discrimination, racism and unnecessary suspicion.

For three consecutive years, Australian politicians have commemorated Anzac Day, Australia’s day of remembrance for its war dead, with war cry after war cry.

During this year’s Anzac Day – just four weeks shy of what is tipped to be a “khaki” federal election – Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton marked the occasion by saying Australia can only preserve peace by preparing for war and likened Russian President Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler.

Australian soldiers take part in the Anzac Day Parade. Anzac Day will mark the 107th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings as dawn services, marches and commemorative services are held around Australia. Photo: AAP/dpa

Prime Minister Scott Morrison too warned about the “arc of autocracy” again, referring to Russia and China. It has become one of his favourite election catchcries.