United States | 2006 Australian Official Visit

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The United States Chief of Protocol, Mary Applegale, was in constant and regular communication with the Prime Minister Julia Gillard's office as the date of the Prime Minister's official visit to the United States approached. In Washington D.C., significant security arrangements were made to ensure that Prime Minister and the President would not have any concerns while she was in town. The Secret Service, the Diplomatic Security Service, and the FBI were all coordinating with a special task force to coordinate the movements of the Prime Minister and her entourage while they were in the United States. Special considerations were put in place for the currently planned schedule that had been submitted by the Chief of Protocol.

The Australian Department of Defense was securely sent a plane route through American airspace to Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland where her aircraft could land and be received. If it was needed, the Prime Minister's aircraft could refuel at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam, at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii, at Edwards Air Force Base in California, and Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas. All of the flight routes would, in particular, avoid restricted areas in Nevada including Groom Lake. Waiting at Andrews was the Chief of Protocol herself along with several other leaders and officials who were eager to meet the Australian Prime Minister.​

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At RAAF Base Fairbairn, a No. 34 Squadron Boeing 737-700 BBJ would be prepared for the Prime Minister's journey to Washington D.C. Air Force maintenance crew would check over the aircraft and fuel it up. The pilots and the flight attendants would go over their flight plans, itineraries and would prepare the aircraft with its catering supplies. As the aircraft only had a range of 11,000km, the flight would fly from Canberra up to Hickham Air Force Base in Hawaii where it would refuel, a distance of 8,400km. It would then fly across to the continental United States, eventually arriving at Andrews Air Force Base, a total distance of 16,200km. The aircraft would use the callsign "ENVOY01".

The Prime Minister would prepare her suitcases with personal belongings and so would her staff. Joining her on this official visit would be the Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner along with other Washington-based staff such as the Ambassador to the United States, Kim Beazley, the Liaison Officer to the Chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff, Commodore Allison Norris and the Head of Australian Defence Staff in Washington, D.C., Air Vice Marshal Alan Clements. Four members of the Prime Minister's protection team within the Australian Federal Police would also join her, armed with sidearms. They would be joined later by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd, who was currently in Ottawa and wrapping up his meetings there.

The Prime Ministerial Limousine "Commonwealth 1" would take the Prime Minister from her residence The Lodge in Canberra and would head off to RAAF Base Fairbairn in the early morning flanked by Australian Federal Police motorcycles and cars. Media would be present along the route and at the airport for this occassion. She would meet the Minister for Defence there along with the staff from the Prime Minister's Office and other Departments joining her. A delegation of the major Australian media outlets would also join the Prime Minister in her aircraft. They would board the aircraft through the VIP Terminal at RAAF Base Fairbairn. Once they were all prepared and settled, the aircraft would begin its taxi to the runway and would get priority for take off from all the normal commercial aircraft using Canberra Airport. It would take off in a northerly direction, heading off in a north-east heading, flying directly over Sydney as it was climbing to its cruising altitude before heading off over the Pacific Ocean. It would fly over New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tuvalu and Kiribati airspace before eventually entering U.S. airspace near Baker Island and Howland Island.

It would make its short stop at Hickham Air Force Base in Hawaii in order to refuel. All personnel would remain on the aircraft and there would be a quick turnaround before it took off again heading eastwards towards the continental United States. It would enter continental United States airspace just south of San Francisco/San Jose. Flying over California and then into Nevada where it would fly just north of restricted airspace at "Lake Groom", directly over the town of Tonopah. It would then fly over Utah, Colorado (directly over Denver), Nebraska, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, flying directly over Champaign, Indianapolis and Dayton before eventually flying over the Appalachians and into the Capital Region's airspace.

As they flew over Dayton the Prime Minister would remark "this is where Kristina went to University!". Kristina Keneally, the current Premier of New South Wales was an alumni of the University of Dayton.

Budding aviation enthusiasts would be able to take advantage of spotting a Royal Australian Air Force jet flying over their towns and cities. It would come into Andrews Air Force Base from the south, avoiding highly restricted Washington D.C. airspace. Once cleared, it would touch down at the airport. It would follow tower instructions to taxi to its designated area.

The Governor-General would appoint the Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer, Wayne Swan, as Acting Prime Minister by convention.

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Exceptional measures were taken to ensure the security of ENVOY01 as it flew through American national airspace. A military escort was not necessary, nevertheless, civilian and military air traffic were regularly redirected to ensure the Australian aircraft did not have any airborne disturbances to worry about for at least a ten-mile radius. All air traffic at Andrews was grounded or redirected so it did not intervene with the arrival of ENVOY01. The aircraft was directed by Air Force Air Traffic Control to take the appropriate heading to land at the appropriate runway at the appropriate speed.

The Secret Service and the Air Force were out in force at Andrews. ENVOY01 was directed on what runway it should land on and was given the correct heading along with windspeed and other minor weather conditions. Once the aircraft touched down, it would be directed to taxi to a specific location where a red carpet, honor guard, and diplomatic welcoming committee were waiting. A staircase was rolled up to the Prime Minister's aircraft so that Ms. Gillard and the rest of the Australian delegation could descend down to the Earth. When the Prime Minister would depart the aircraft, she would see the red carpet rolled out at the base of the staircase which led past a military honor guard and to a small fleet of vehicles that were waiting to take her and the most important members of his delegation to the White House. Soldiers, sailors, and airmen from the honor guards of all the branches of the armed forces were present, totaling in 19 servicemen since the Prime Minister was a de facto Head of Government and not State (which would justify 21 servicemen).

Once she made it to the bottom of the staircase the Chief of Protocol was first in line. She shook the hand of the Prime Minister and said, "Madam Prime Minister, I'm Mary Applegale, the Chief of Protocol. Welcome to the United States - I'll walk along with you here," she said. A young girl from a local elementary school in Washington D.C. was waiting at the bottom of the staircase with a small bouquet of flowers for the Prime Minister, which she handed to her. Mary then acted as a kind of guide as they made their way down the ceremonial red carpet.

Mary introduced the Prime Minister to the commanding general of Andrews Air Force Base, the American ambassador to Australia, the Governor of Maryland (the State which they were presently standing in), and a few other dignitaries from the federal government who were excited to play a small part in the first visit of a foreign leader to the United States. All the while the U.S. Air Force band played "Arrival Fanfare Number One." American and Australian journalists, who had been pre-selected based on having clean backgrounds, were allowed onto the tarmac so that they could take pictures and film the event. Mary escorted the Australians through the military honor guard, and finally to the vehicles that were waiting for them. Each of them were driven by armed members of the Secret Service.

The Australian Federal Police officers would be permitted to keep their weapons after the serial numbers were recorded by the Secret Service. However, they were reminded that they would not be able to have their sidearms when they would be on White House grounds - even if they would be staying at the nearby Blair House - and that there would be other restrictions. The motorcade made its way from Andrews to the White House and the most direct and safe way possible. Roads were closed off and an escort was provided by local police, ranging from the Maryland State Police to the D.C. police.

Public​

Now it was time for the "Salutatory" portion of the ceremony. President Sinclair stepped up to the podium, which had the seal of the President, and briefly cleared his throat. "Prime Minister, I would like to welcome you to the United States and the White House, along with the rest of your delegation," he said into the microphone.

Some guests were standing on the South Lawn, and included congressmen, some of their families, and the families of other high officials and diplomats who wanted to help welcome the Australians.

"It is a true honor to host a critical ally to the United States here at the White House. The close relationship between the United States and Australia is essential and necessary. We share so much in common, including our firm belief in the protection of liberty, common law, and democracy. Recently we have formalized our informal relationship into a more formal relationship, and I think that it is clear that the United State and Australia stand as friends and allies through and through, and that we will defend each other no matter the cost. While we are two very different nations, we are fortunate to enjoy many similarities, as well as a shared history and friendship. I look forward to moving our relationship forward, and maybe we can even fit in a couple of hours to shoot some clay pigeons," he said, which got a bit of laughter form the crowd. "But really, welcome, Prime Minister I'm happy that we are able to host you here," he said as he stepped back from the podium.

It was now the Prime Minister's turn to give a few words. After this, they would be able to finally go inside the White House.

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The Prime Minister would make her way down the stairs with Ambassador Beazley by her side. He had flown back to Australia prior in order to brief the Prime Minister and accompany her to the United States. The Ambassador would walk by her side as she kept walking through. Behind them would be the delegation, the Minister for Defence and the Prime Minister's partner, Tim Mathieson. They would make their way into the vehicles and head off. The AFP officers would position themselves at Blair House rather than the White House to make sure the premises were secure.

The Prime Minister and Mr. Mathieson would meet and greet the President and First Lady at the White House before the ceremonies got underway. They would take their seats on the South Lawn of the White House.

They would applaud the President's speech before the President invited the Prime Minister to the podium. She would go up to the podium and would shake the President's hand at the podium before taking it.

"Thank you very much President Sinclair,

It is an honour and a privilege to be standing here in one of the great hearts of democracy in the world.... Washington D.C. Along with London we regard this as one of the most important capital cities in the world to Australia. Many see Australia as the product of what happens if you combine the United Kingdom and the United States. Indeed, our system of government is sometimes colloquially referred to as the "Washminster" system, a Westminster-style parliament with a House of Representatives and a Senate. Just like the United States, we are a nation built on immigrants, a success story of growing nothing into something extraordinary.... a place with wide open frontiers and cosmopolitan cities, of productive farmland and citizens who aspire to achieve a "dream", whether the American dream or the Australian dream. But we still speak a bit funny, put the letter "u" in colour, where cookies are biscuits and biscuits are scones and we still swear allegiance to Her Majesty The Queen. And of course, that flag is still inside ours." She would point to the Australian flag behind her, allowing for the audience to laugh.

"I guess you could call ours the stars and stripes too....

But of course, we are more than just similarities. The alliance between Australia and the United States goes deeper, than any other.... probably second to New Zealand. My predecessor, John Curtin, who still outranks me in terms of highest election results for a Labor Prime Minister. Don't worry John... I'll get you one day." She would let them laugh again.

"Prime Minister Curtin famously uttered the words: "The Australian Government, therefore regards the Pacific struggle as primarily one in which the United States and Australia must have the fullest say in the direction of the Democracies' fighting plan. Without any inhibitions of any kind, I make it clear that Australia looks to America, free of any pangs as to our traditional links or kinship with the United Kingdom." Those words still resonate clearly today. Australia is a massive continent in the Indo-Pacific region and the United States has many outposts within the region. Together we form a formidable alliance in the Indo-Pacific, but indeed all around the world. Australians have fought with Americans in every war since the First World War, which no other nation can claim they have done. We face many challenges in the world, but together we can front those challenges and most importantly... overcome them.

We formulate this relationship, not just for ourselves and our current governments, but for successive governments and for our people. Australians have a deep fondness of Americans and Americans have a deep fondness of Australians. I know this from watching the outpouring of love that many Americans have towards the now Governor of Queensland, His Excellency Steve Irwin, for his work in animal conservation and I think... the fact that he found himself with an American wife." She would let them laugh.

"I know this because the current Premier of New South Wales, Kristina Keneally, made the decision at 30 years old to move from the United States to Australia and now occupies the highest echelons of power in the largest state in the federation. She serves the people of New South Wales with the utmost dedication and service, displaying this during the recent riots in Cronulla where she reinforced what Australian values were and what it meant to be Australian. If that is not commitment to Australia, I don't know what is.

Mr. President, together lets champion the cause of democracy, freedom and peace throughout the world. I thank you for hosting me."

With that she would exit off the podium. She would approach the President, exchanging a few words and embraces before leading them inside the White House.

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The Australian Federal Police Officers were escorted directly to Blair House, if they so wished, so that they could establish a security perimeter or conduct other activities to their liking. They had a liaison from the Secret Service who was assigned to them, Special Agent Blake Carter, who took the lead officer of the AFP present through Blair House and gave him a brief tour before going over some critical security matters. Essentially, the Secret Service would do everything they could, within reason, to make the AFP comfortable and confident that they and the Secret Service would be able to properly protect the Prime Minister and the rest of the Australian delegation while they were guests in Washington.

Meanwhile, at the White House, the assembled crowd and journalists responded positively to the Prime Minister's speech. There was laughter and applause throughout the speech, and a healthy amount of applause at the end. However, the other most notable murmurs and applause came at the mention of the Governor of Queensland, Steve Irwin, who was probably the most famous Australian to Americans, excluding the Prime Minister and maybe actor Paul Hogan who played Mick Dundee in the 1986 hit movie, "Crocodile Dundee."

President Sinclair escorted the Prime Minister and her partner, Tim Mathieson, inside of the White House Residence where they were promptly brought to the Red Room where the leaders and their partners could gather in private for the first time. While the relationship between Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Minister Mathieson was public and well-known, the worst kept secret in Washington was President Sinclair's relationship with United States Senator Olympia Snowe, who was also from Maine. Sinclair was in his very early 80s, and Snowe was 59. Neither Sinclair nor Snowe were married or in a relationship with anyone else, but they had to play down their relationship for political reasons.

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Sinclair was the first American - since James Buchanon in 1857 - to be elected President while not being married. After the Korean War, Sinclair had married a young woman. Just a year after their marriage she was pregnant with their first child when she was murdered. Sinclair spent decades blaming himself for the murder and stayed away from getting into another relationship until, much later in his life, he got to know Senator Snowe quite well. She was appointed to the Senate to represent Maine after the attack on the Capitol in 1997 and has remained in office since then. It is well-known in Washington circles that Sinclair and Snowe are partners of some kind, but how serious their relationship is, is often debated. Sinclair is a member of the Silent Generation and is a very private person by his own nature. While Snowe is younger, she shares many of those same sentiments. Nonetheless, the Australian Security Intelligence Organization would easily know that the two were in a relationship, and it is likely that the Prime Minister would have been informed about this during her briefing on Sinclair and other American leadership that she was going to meet on the trip. It was probably pointed out that something Gillard and Sinclair had in common was that neither was married but both were in some kind of partnership.

President Sinclair was wearing a three-piece black suit with a dark, navy-blue tie. He had a small American flag lapel pin on his coat and his white hair was parted to the side. He was holding his signature black walking cane in his left hand. He had sustained some minor injuries to his leg in the Korean War, but he could pretty easily get around without it if he needed to. He extended his hand to Prime Minister Gillard.

"Welcome to the White House, Prime Minister," he said, and then introduced himself to Mathieson and welcomed him as well. "Let me introduce Senator Olympia Snowe, who is also from the great State of Maine."

Olympia was wearing a conservative dark blue dress that matched Sinclair's tie. The two stood next to each other like they were a couple. She extended her hand to the Gillard and Mathieson, "It is very nice to meet you both, welcome to the United States."

Sinclair invited everyone to take a seat. The four leaders were offered their choice of coffee, tea, or water before they were left alone for the traditional exchange of gifts. Gillard certainly was not afraid of being photographed drinking with friends and constituents back in Australia, so Sinclair decided on getting her and Mathieson an expensive bottle of red wine from Napa Valley in California. The bottle was inside of a box with a lid on it, which he handed to Gillard.

"Olympia and I tried this one the last time we were in California, it's very smooth. I hope that you both enjoy it," Sinclair said. Sinclair and Snowe then waited to be presented with their gift.

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After the presentation of the gifts, the two couples would have been permitted to spend some more time together so that they could get to know one another a bit better. This, however, for the most part was probably conservative small talking more than anything else, as they would have much more time with each other later. It was now time for the State Department Luncheon which was hosted by the Secretary of State, Luke Adams, and the Vice President of the United States, Richard Blumenthal. The event took place at the Harry S. Truman Building in Foggy Bottom, specifically in the Benjamin Franklin State Dining Room. In attendance at the exclusive event was former State Department officials including several former secretaries of state (including former Secretary of State Jackson Fitzgerald), former American ambassadors to Australia, and some of America's curious political intelligentsia - this event was not open to the public and was not broadcast to the public. Everyone in attendance was served a three-course meal while various speakers came to the podium in a kind of mini-conference for the Prime Minister and the visitors to enjoy.

Secretary Adams cleared his throat as he stood in front of a massive fireplace and looked out to the dozens of attendees as well as the Prime Minister and Minister Mathieson.

"It is a pleasure to hold the first State Department Luncheon of this administration for a visiting world leader. Prime Minister, Minister Mathieson, welcome to Washington, and thank you to everyone who is in attendance today. I have been looking forward to this luncheon for quite some time. There are few countries in the world that I am so excited for the Federal Government to build a relationship with as Australia. The Australian and American people share a descendance from our British forefathers - some would go as far as to say that we are national siblings. While a large ocean separates us, we have so much in common other than the common ancestry that many of our people share. We strongly believe in representative democracy, freedom of speech, the importance of education, and an admiration for the great outdoors. If Americans in New England may feel some kind of phycological connection to the British way of life, then I am sure that Americans in the Southwest part of the country, and Texas, must feel that same connection with the Australian people.

"These connections give us a natural route to be able to work together. Since there are few cultural barriers between us, we can focus on how we can best work together to preserve our mutual interests. The United States and Australia have recently formalized our international relationship and soon the United States will have a greater presence in the region. I can see our international partnership continuing forward, and I will do everything I can to make sure that it does," he said. Secretary Adams went on to emphasize the importance of America and Australia's strategic partnership going forward.

Secretary Adams then introduced Vice President Blumenthal who welcomed the Australians and reemphasized some of Adams's points, but also added that there were several legislative initiatives in the Senate that he wanted to push for which could further cooperation between the United States and Australia.

Secretary Adams and Vice President Blumenthal sat at a table with Minister Mathieson and the Prime Minister, separate from everyone else who was there for the luncheon. They had the chance to talk with relative privacy. At some point, the topic of current events came up and Vice President Blumenthal, who had been relatively reserved throughout the conversation, spoke up.

"Prime Minister, does your government have any strong positions on the current situation in Turkey? We're quite concerned that a strongman dictatorship or a radical Islamist government may take over the country if the current economic and political instability over there continues. I know it's a world away for you, even more so than us, but it has been a pretty big topic of discussion here in Washington lately," Blumenthal noted, and then took a bite of mashed potatoes.​

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The Prime Minister would shake the President's hand and would then shake Senator Snowe's hand.

"Pleasure to meet you Senator Snowe." She would let out a smile, knowing privately the relationship the Senator and the President had. She was informed of this by the Ambassador who heard it on the grapevine within D.C. circles. It was not the job or business of ASIO to collect foreign intelligence (which was the job of ASIS), as an internal security agency, nor would they be remotely interested in the private lives of foreign leaders. But nevertheless, she knew from gossip.

The Prime Minister would be surprised at the gift of wine she would receive.

"Thank you kindly, Mr. President. I do love a good bottle of red. Being from South Australia originally we pride ourselves immensely on the wine we produce, with notable brands such as Penfolds. They also have vineyards in the Napa Valley and I have heard that it is some of the best in the world from that part of California. I look forward very much to drinking this, maybe in the presence of another foreign leader."

She would pass the gift to an assistant nearby. "The gift please.." She would say. They would then pass her the gift.

"Our gift to you..." She would turn around and present a piece of art.

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"This is an artwork created by Amanda Westley, an Indigenous Australian artist from the Ngarrindjeri people of my home state of South Australia. The artwork represents "country" and the spiritual and cultural connection Aboriginal people have to the land. It represents the Aboriginal community of Raukkan, which was formerly a mission, situated on the shore of Lake Alexandrina. Notably it is also the home of David Unaipon, an Aboriginal pastor and inventor, who is depicted on the Australian $50 note."

She would present the gift to the President with a smile.

"It might not fit the theme of the other artwork in the White House, but we grace the walls in Parliament and my official residences with Indigenous artwork and it works tremendously well."

Prior to the State Department Luncheon, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd would touch down at Andrews Air Force Base arriving from Ottawa after his meetings with the Canadian Foreign Minister. For the first time in history, both of No. 34 Squadron's Boeing 737BBJ's would be parked together on foreign soil. The top brass of Australia's foreign portfolios (Prime Miniser, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence) in cabinet would be together for the first time on foreign soil. The Minister would be taken from the air base in an embassy-arranged vehicle. The Secret Service would be alerted to his arrival to provide some security. He would be taken straight to the State Department Luncheon.

The Prime Minister, the Minister for Defence, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Ambassador would dress in their finest cocktail wear for the dinner. They would enjoy the dinner and would listen to the Secretary speak. The Prime Minister would then sit with the Vice President to have their personal discussion. She would instruct Tim to go chat with other officials in the room. Minister Rudd would accompany him.

She would listen to the Vice President speak.

"Mr. Vice President, since our defeat at Gallipoli I don't think we have any desire to be involved in Turkish affairs again." She would let out a chuckle.

"But nevertheless, I have not had a very formal briefing about what is occurring there. You are right, it is worlds away from us. We are always more focused on the Indo-Pacific than Europe or the Middle East. We are focusing on the transition in Myanmar and the implications that has for the wider region, particularly in regards to Thailand. This is the benefit of the United States having allies across the world, you need deputies in different regions. But 5 years ago we did involve ourselves in military operations against Turkey and Saudi Arabia during their war against Israel. I hope we don't have to see a similar situation again. A dictatorship or Islamist regime would be concerning, but unless it begins to directly threaten other nations, we don't have a desire to particularly involve ourselves in the internal affairs of the Middle East region. Is there something that I should know or be aware of? Is there a particular position the United States would like to see us take?"

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"Secretary Adams, correct me if I am wrong, but I think we are on the same page when it comes to Turkey..." The Vice President said, before turning his attention back to the Australian Prime Minister. "From everything we can see, Turkey is facing an extraordinary economic downfall, if not a collapse, soon if serious action isn't taken by their government, which seems to be purposely orchestrating the downfall. It is my opinion that there will be some kind of regime change soon, and that this communist government will fall. My hope is that it will be some kind of social or liberal democracy, and not a dictatorship, military junta, or theocratic state," he said.

"If a provisional democratic government is able to take control, we are going to directly support them getting off their feet. When that time comes, we would appreciate it if your government could voice its support for that provisional government in Turkey, if it does happen. We really appreciate the support that you have given, verbally, since our governments starting working together," he said, sincerely.

The luncheon would continue to go on, and they were served all of their courses of fine food. A few more guest speakers spoke, some who were past ambassadors to Australia, and a couple who fought in World War Two or had worked for the State Department. The luncheon was kept to a pretty tight schedule because the big event was the State Dinner that would be occurring that night. After the luncheon was concluded, Secretary Adams and Vice President Blumenthal walked the Australians out to their motorcade which took them back to the White House so that they could prepare for the State Dinner that would be occurring that evening. The State Dinner would be a black tie event, which was standard for Official Visits.

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America's status as a young nation meant that its political institutions and citizens generally lived in the moment, rather than relying on very ancient tradition. However, in the 200 year history of the country, there were some long-standing recurring customs that the higher-ups in the government were comfortable repeating. A chief example of this was the State and Official dinners that were held for leaders of very important guests to the White House. The first State Dinner was for the King of Hawaii, and was hosted by President U.S. Grant. In modern times, the dinners were more opulent than ever.

The State Dining Room in the White House was adorned and decorated for the special event. There was a long rectangular dining table that the Australian guests of honor and the chief representatives of the United States would sit at, but there were also round tables brought in for members of the Australian delegation as well as American guests who had been invited to the White House. This list included notable leaders including congressmen and senators, as well as local leaders like Governor Ann Richards of Texas, a few business tycoons, three former Presidents (who were presently also Senators, including Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, and Al Gore), the Speaker of The House and his wife, and also several famous personalities.

The most famous non-political guest at the event would be actor Daniel Craig who had been chosen as the next James Bond. The next movie in the series, Casino Royale would be released later in November. Mr. Craig, and a handful of other famous actors being from the United States or Australia, were in attendance and had new movies which they probably hoped that the dinner would garner some publicity for.

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The dinner was strictly invitation only, however parts of it would be televised using White House cameras that would broadcast it to American news agencies (and possibly the Australian ABC if they wanted it). Once the Prime Minister was ready, she and her partner would be escorted from their bedroom to the Entrance Hall of the White House where President Sinclair and Senator Snowe were waiting in their formal dress. The White House photographer and a few American journalists were there to take pictures of the leaders as they greeted each other, but no questions were asked. All of the reporters, however, noted that Senator Snowe was seemingly there as President Sinclair's "other." The President led their small party to the Yellow Oval Room, which was now used as a reception room for events such as this. President Sinclair opened the door to reveal a very comfortable parlor with sofas, comfortable chairs, and yellow wallpaper. There were small treys of party snacks laid out, and also a few butlers standing in the corner of the rooms who were prepared to help with what any of the guests needed.

After the leaders entered the room, the other guests who would be sitting at the head of the table with the President and Prime Minister started filtering in. This included guests like the Governor of Texas, the Speaker of the House, three former Presidents, several congressmen, the Mayor of Washington D.C., the Vice President, and Daniel Craig. As they came in, they were each individually introduced to the President and Prime Minister, who were free to shake hands with them, as well as the Senator Snowe and Minister Mathieson. They would remain in the Yellow Oval for about forty-five minutes before it would be time to process to the State Dining Room for the dinner itself. Most of the guests, as well as the leaders, were probably sitting and perhaps enjoying a glass of scotch or whiskey.

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President Sinclair seemed to light up a bit when he saw his old friend come into the room and make a B-line directly to Sinclair and Beazley. Al Gore extended his hand to Sinclair and the two shook, before briefly embracing in a half-hug.

"It's great to see you, Mister President," Gore said.

"The pleasure is all mine," Sinclair said in return. The two men were bound to stay up past midnight probably smoking cigars and drinking scotch after the festivities this evening were concluded.

"Prime Minister, allow me to introduce President Al Gore. Al, this Prime Minister Kim Beazley," Sinclair said. In the United States, it was tradition to continue to call all former presidents, "Mister President."

"Prime Minister, it's a pleasure," Gore said, offering to shake her hand. Sinclair introduced Gore to Minister Mathieson as well.

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At some point, Daniel Craig got near the leaders as he approached an unprotected bottle of vodka.

"Mr. Craig," Al Gore said. The actor stopped approaching the vodka and instead turned his attention to Gore.

"Mister President, it's nice to meet you," Craig said to Gore.

"It's nice to meet you too," Gore responded. He introduced Daniel Craig to President Sinclair and the Prime Minister.

"President Sinclair and I," Gore began, "have a tradition... Ever since he became President, we have gone to the premier of every James Bond movie. I can't wait for your debut," Gore said, sounding genuinely excited.

"I'll be in London for the international premier," Craigh said, teasing that it would be a day before the American premier, "but maybe the two of you could join me in New York for the American premier." Both Sinclair and Gore seemed to like that idea. After a bit more small chat, Gore turned his attention to the Prime Minister and mentioned to her that he really wanted to visit the Great Barrier Reef. President Gore also had a movie - or rather documentary - of his own that would come out in the Autumn, called, "An Inconvenient Truth" which was based off of his book by the same name.

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The Prime Minister would be quite shocked to see Daniel Craig at the dinner. An unusual addition to the guest list. But nevertheless she carried on and would continue to enjoy the function. She would begin greeting the individuals as they entered the hall. It would be assumed that Governor Richards and President Gore would be wearing their Companion of the Order of Australia medals, which were given to them a few years ago for their dedication to the relationship and to which President Gore obtained Congressional approval to accept the order.

As the President introduced President Gore to the Prime Minister she would notice he said "Prime Minister Kim Beazley." As she shook President Gore's hand she would reply. "Prime Minister Gillard.... A pleasure to meet you President Gore. Mr. Beazley is sitting over there on the table, though it is not customary to refer to former Prime Minister's as Prime Minister. As I am aware, you had a fruitful relationship with the former Prime Minister when you served concurrently." She would look over to President Sinclair and smile, getting increasingly worried about his cognitive health. He reminded her of Senator Biden of Delaware.

After chatting with Daniel Craig for a bit she would take notice of his intentions to visit the Great Barrier Reef.

"We are always open to having more promotion of tourism in Australia. If you would like to collaborate with Tourism Australia we would be more than happy to have that. The Great Barrier Reef is a national treasure and it is increasingly under threat from environmental concerns, particularly climate change, which I know President Gore here has been a strong advocate on.

I also note you are a big rugby fan. We are looking at bidding to host the World Cup next year. We would be more than happy to have you attend."

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[Odinson]

Private​

The time had come for the dinner to start. The President, Senator Snowe, Prime Minister Gillard, Mr. Mathieson, and VIPs in the Yellow Oval Room were escorted to the Grand Staircase where they descended down to the Entrance Hall on the State Floor of the Residence. That is where they would meet the Marine Corps Band, known as "The President's Own" would play "Hail to the Chief," "Advance Australia Fair," and "The Star-Spangled Banner." The President and Senator Snowe stood with their hands over the hearts for the American National Anthem, and then respectfully stood in silence for the Australian national anthem. A receiving line would then be formed so that the President could "introduce" the Prime Minister and Mr. Mathieson to each of the guests. In reality, this was done by having the First Couple, the Prime Minister, and Mathieson standing next to each other, with guests coming by in an orderly line to shake the hands of Sinclair and Snowe, and then Gillard and Mathieson.

While this wasn't the most exciting part of the night, it didn't take long and it would certainly give the less important guests that night something to remember. The White House photographer was there to take pictures of the guests meeting the President and the Prime Minister. Daniel Craig made sure that his pictures came out well in the hopes that the tabloids would carry them that week and help promote the next "007" movie. Among some of the other VIPs that were introduced were the Vice President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and former Presidents Al Gore, George H. W. Bush, and Jimmy Carter. While President Carter was supposed to be the last person in line to shake hands with the First Couple, the Prime Minister, and Mr. Mathieson, one last person pushed her way past a White House butler and stood behind President Carter.

President Sinclair - who was typically a stickler for protocol and tradition - couldn't help but smirk a bit as the older woman caused a small scene by forcing her way into the line.

"Prime Minister Gillard, Mr. Mathieson, this is The Honorable Ann Richards, Governor of Texas," Sinclair said, introducing her more like a foreign dignitary than a domestic governor.

"And don't you forget it," Richards said with a smile and the wit that she was infamous for. Richards shook Gillard's hand and posed for a photo with her.

"Prime Minister, I admire your administration in Australia and all the work you've been doing there. This is nice and all," she said, briefly looking around at the ornate decorations around them, "but if you'd like to have a good time, there's an open invitation for you to come to Texas." Governor Richards had been drinking (whiskey of course), but she was more than capable of handling her liquor. Her Lone Star broach shimmered brightly on her dark outfit.

Richards would soon be facing her third gubernatorial election in Texas, which she was expected to win. Despite the fact that every state office in Texas was held by a Republican and that both chambers of the state legislature had a Republican-majority, Richards (who was a Democrat) remained unusually popular in Texas. Her longevity and popularity was probably enough to buy her this next election, but the margin would be close. She remained an advocate for the education of girls and young women and was a notably progressive politician in a state that had been, and continued to be, very conservative. Even though she was staunch in her positions that most others in the state government considered radical, she was able to work with the legislature in other places to pass some meaningful legislation that benefited the people of Texas.

"I made sure that we would be sitting next to each other at dinner, I hope that you don't mind," Richards said to the Prime Minister. She then shook the hands of Mr. Mathieson and Senator Snowe, and then finally Sinclair.

"Mister President, it's always an honor," the Texas Governor said confidently, even though President Sinclair was towering over her.

"The honor is all mine, Governor. I'm sorry that you weren't invited in the Yellow Oval, I'll have to talk to the staff about that," he said.

"That's fine, us women are always overlooked in Washington," she said humorously and with a smile. It was clear that Richards wasn't offended. In truth, she and the President had a good professional and personal relationship.

After Richards walked away, Senator Snowe couldn't help but make a quiet comment about how she loved how feisty Richards was - she had confidence that Snowe could only dream of.

​

After the receiving line was complete, the leaders and their partners walked down the famous Cross Hall of the Residence - which was a large grand hallway in the White House - to the State Dining Room. The Cross Hall was lined with U.S. service members who were wearing their formal dress uniforms. All five of America's military branches were represented by the stoic soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen who saluted as the leaders walked by. The meal was now prepared and ready to be served, but first came the somewhat more informal toasts that were to be made by the President for the Prime Minister, and then for the Prime Minister by the President. There was a lectern with the seal of the President that had been assembled next to their table. President Gore got up first, and walked over to it with a glass of champagne. The President's table included, of course, the President, Senator Snowe, Prime Minister Gillard, Mr. Mathieson, Ambassador Beazley, as well as Governor Ann Richards who had told an usher that the President wanted her at the table.

"Ladies and gentlemen," President Sinclair said, "we are assembled here tonight to celebrate our honored guests, Prime Minister Gillard and Mr. Mathieson. The United States and Australia share many similarities such as a shared language, a shared history rooted in British exploration, and a strong admiration for democracy. Some people would say that Australia takes the best aspects of the American and British political systems and combines them together, with the various mechanisms of a constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy, and federalist system combined together... Of course, I could never admit that another system is better than our own, but if it has helped foster such a fine nation and strong leaders like Prime Minister Gillard, then I am sure that it is definitely worth taking a look at. Ladies and gentlemen, a toast to the Prime Minister and Mr. Mathieson," he said, and then raised his glass, took a sip, and returned to the table. It was now the Prime Minister's turn to return a toast to President Sinclair from the same lectern.

Owen

 

[Owen]

The Prime Minister would shake Ann Richards hand.

"Governor Richards, it is a pleasure to meet you. You are one of my biggest inspirations as a woman in public life. I believe it was my predecessor who made the recommendation to the Governor-General of Australia to appoint you with the Companion of the Order of Australia. I would love to visit Texas one day, given the striking similarities between the State of Texas and Australia. We are sometimes seen as Texas with a British flair. We maintain a Consulate-General in Houston to continue strengthening the bilateral relationship between Texas and Australia."

At the dinner table they would get comfortable and enjoy the formalities, listening to the President's toast. Once he had concluded, the Prime Minister would stand up.

"Mr. President, it is an honour and a privilege to be invited here to the White House and to your great nation for an official state visit. The United States has a long standing relationship with Australia and we owe a lot to your great nation. We owe a lot to the men and women who wear the uniform and served the United States Armed Forces in World War II, being the only thing standing between Australia and the fury of imperial Japan. Your liberation efforts in that war are highly commendable and saved not only Australia but the entire Indo-Pacific region from near total domination by the government in Tokyo at that time. Your leadership now is similar to that we saw from President's Roosevelt and Truman during that time. President Sinclair..." She would raise her glass. "A toast to the President of the United States, Senator Snowe, the men and women who serve and of course.... the United States of America."

Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

The State Dinner was considered to be a roaring success at least among the visiting leaders and dignitaries from the United States. While its function was a historical formality, the food was fantastic and the guests were rambunctious. The night ended with everyone dancing, and a few formal dances between the leaders and their partners. After the dinner was over, President Sinclair and Senator Snowe wished their counterparts goodnight. Prime Minister Gillard and Mr. Mathieson were escorted to Blair House which had the Australian flag flying outside of it. The Prime Minister and Mathieson would find their room clean, the bed made, and even a television available for them.

The next day, the Prime Minister was to address a joint session of the United States Congress. The speech could be on a number of topics, but would probably revolve around the following:

"The Vice President and the Speaker of The House have, at the request of the President, called for a Joint Meeting of Congress. As is tradition, the Prime Minister will be invited to address this Joint Meeting. A speech of this nature will traditionally include discussing the importance of the relationship between the two countries, topics that the visitor finds important with regards to the United States and their country, and important goals that the visitor has to reach with the President and the United States as a whole. The Prime Minister is welcome to talk about whatever she wants in her speech."

Following the speech, the Prime Minister and Mr. Mathieson would return to the White House where they could either relax for the day, or go out on a more private excursion to Washington. That evening, it would be customary for Prime Minister Gillard and Mr. Mathieson to host the Vice President and Second Lady for a "Return Dinner." This dinner is essentially an opportunity for the Australian delegation to reciprocate for the State Dinner that they had participated in the night before. Vice President Blumenthal and his wife would be in attendance if the Australians were willing to hold this event.

The third day was the most significant of the entire visit. First, the President went on a tour of George Washington's home, Mount Vernon, with the Prime Minister and Mr. Mathieson. This tour was guided by the National Parks Service and was done privately, away from prying eyes. Afterwards they returned to the White House for a less formal lunch. Then, Mr. Mathieson and Senator Snowe would part from the President and Prime Minister while the leaders met in the Oval office.

The Secret Service would escort the Prime Minister to the West Wing where the President's Chief of Staff, Harvey Baker, would escort him to the Oval Office. The Prime Minister was of course welcome to bring anyone from her entourage with her to the diplomatic meeting in the Oval Office - anyone ranging from foreign affairs officials to defense officials to just a private secretary and herself. It was entirely up to him. Baker knocked on one of the doors leading into the Oval and then carefully swung it open.

"Prime Minister Gillard is here, Mister President," he said. Sinclair looked like he was just finishing up something behind his desk. He was wearing his reading glasses. The President produced his signature on two documents and then got up from behind the desk, walked around it, and shook the Prime Minister's hand once again.

"Well, let's get to it," the tall, elder statesman said. Sinclair walked over to the two sofas in the room where there were only two other American officials. One being the Secretary of Defense, and the other being the Secretary of State.

"Prime Minister, I'm sure you remember, but this is Robert Gates, Secretary of Defense, and this is Luke Adams, Secretary of State. If you don't mind, they'll be joining us for the sit down this afternoon. Gentlemen, this is Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia," Sinclair said. A butler, who had been patiently waiting on one side of the Oval Office, poured them all a glass of water and left the pitcher on the small coffee table between them. The butler left and closed the door behind him. That day, the West Wing was off limits to visitors and the meeting in the Oval Office was of course private.

"Prime Minister," Sinclair said, "I know that some people think that Official Visits can be a drag, but I really enjoy them. It's a time for there to be a melding of cultures, or sometimes a clash, as well as a gathering of great minds from both of our countries. Maybe some of this belongs in the past, but I think that traditions are important, especially when it comes to celebrating guests. I hope that we have made you and your delegation feel welcomed here in Washington. There are some things that I would like you and I to directly discuss, but since we've been guiding you along this entire time and directing you what to do, I thought I would ask if there is a topic that you would like to talk about first?" Sinclair asked.[COLOR]

Owen

 

[Owen]

The next day the Prime Minister would attend the Joint Session of Congress. The Sergeant at Arms would walk in with all the congressmen and Senators sitting in the chamber. They would exclaim.

"MR SPEAKER..... THE PRIME MINISTER OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA."

She would walk in behind the Sergeant at Arms, shaking the hands of the various delegates in the aisle vicinity. She would walk up to the podium. The Speaker would announce after banging his gavel:

"Members of Congress, I have the high privilege and the distinct honour of presenting to you the Honourable Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia..."

They would be quite a lengthy round of applause before she began speaking.

​

"Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, Mr. President pro tempore, distinguished members of the Senate and the House, distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen:

I'm the fourth Australian Prime Minister to address you. Like them, I take your invitation as a great honor. Like them, I accepted on behalf of Australia. Since 1950 Australian Prime Ministers, Robert Menzies, Bob Hawke, and Kim Beazley have come here, speaking for all the Australian people, through you to all the people of the United States. They each came with a simple message. A message which has been true in war and peace. A message which has been true in hardship and prosperity, in the cold war and in the new world. A message I repeat to you today.

Distinguished members of the Senate and the House, you have a true friend down under. For my parents' generation, the defining image of America was the landing at Normandy. Your boys of Pronta Ho risking everything to help free the world. For my own generation, the defining image of America was the landing on the moon. My classmates and I were sent home from school to watch the great moment on television. I always remember thinking that day, Americans can do anything. Americans helped free the world of my parents' generation. Americans inspired the world of my own youth. I stand here and I see before me, the very same brave and free people. I believe you can do anything still.

There is a reason the world always looks to America. Your great dream, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness inspires us all. Those of you who have spent time with Australians know that we're not given to over statement. By nature, we're laconic speakers and by conviction we are realistic thinkers. In both of our countries, real mates talk straight. We mean what we say. So let me say this to you. You have an ally in Australia, an ally for war and peace, an ally for hardship and prosperity, an ally for the sixty years past, and Australia is also an ally for all of the years to come.

Geography and history alone could never explain the strength of the commitment between us. Rather our values are shared and our people are friends. This is the heart of our alliance. This is why in our darkest days, we've been glad, glad to see each other's face and hear each other's voice. Australia's darkest days in the last century followed the fall of Singapore in 1942 and you were there with us. Under attack in the Pacific, we fought together, side by side, step by bloody step. And whilst it was Australian soldiers at Milne Bay who gave the allies our first victory on land in the Pacific war, it was American sailors at the Battle of the Coral Sea who destroyed the fear of an invasion of Australia.

Distinguished members of the Senate and the House, Australia does not forget. We will never forget. In the decades since, we've stuck together in every major conflict, from Korea and Vietnam, to the conflicts in the Gulf. I want you to know what I've told Australia's Parliament in Canberra, what I told former President Gore, what I told President Sincair at our state dinner this week. Australia will stand firm with our ally, the United States. Friends -- Friends understand this, that we will stand firm with you. But perhaps more importantly, our enemies understand this too. We must be very realistic about the future though. Australia is doing our part. I know very many -- very many young Americans have served their country and lost their lives in many conflicts. As a friend, we share your grief. As an ally, we share your resolve.

Just as our security alliance is one for war and peace, our economic partnership is one for hardship and prosperity. In hard days, we work together. Our societies share a deep understanding of the importance of work. We believe life is given purpose and direction by work. Without work there is corrosive aimlessness. With the loss of work comes the loss of dignity. That's why in each of our countries, the great goal of all we do in the economy is the same. That great goal is to ensure that everyone who can work, does work.

New global realities and the emerging economic weight of countries like Thailand and Egypt has meant the need for strong economic relations between likeminded countries is vital. My Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd has worked hard to ensure this is so. (C-SPAN cameras would show Kevin Rudd sitting in the gallery). While there has been very real pain recently in Russia and India, the global response has averted true economic disaster. Economic stimulus has been crucial to limit the worst effects of the downturn. Economic reform is crucial now to deliver the best hopes for a strong recovery.

Like you, I'm a leader in a democracy. I know reform is never easy, but I know reform is right. The general economic outlook remains fragile and uncertain. Global economic balances persist and we must address them or risk future instability. Your leadership on the global stage is still needed to ensure we make the reforms which will keep the global economy on the path to strong, sustained, and balanced growth. And that is the path to growth in America as well. We have worked hard to resist protectionist pressures. This only built on our decades working together to promote free trade in the world.

I know many of you worked hard to negotiate a Australia-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. Can I say to each of you today, thank you. And we have other opportunities to promote trade and jobs as well. And we look forward to your Congress passing bills that advance free trade rather than distorting it, and through free trade, create jobs. We know the equation is simple. Trade equals jobs, a very simple equation. Our societies share a deep understanding of the importance of work and our societies share a deep commitment to the value of education. We understand education's transformative power. We know education is the future for every child who learns. We also know education is the future for our economies. Our future growth relies on competitiveness and innovation, skills and productivity and these in term rely on the education of our people.

Australia and America are partners in a globalized world where open societies flourish and competitive economies thrive. Australians are deeply grateful to your greatest generation for their mighty deeds. This week I've seen a new generation of Americans. I genuinely believe they can be greater still. Achieving prosperity while sharing its benefits requires farsighted educational reforms. In the same way, achieving growth while caring for our climate requires farsighted economic reforms. Breaking the link between economic growth and emissions growth is a difficult challenge for our economies and we can only achieve it by working together. Our cooperation in key international forums and in research and development is making an important contribution. We must work together to achieve an historic transition to high technology, high skill, clean energy economies.

Shared values are the basis of our security alliance and shared values are the basis of our economic partnership as well. Through hard work and education we can deliver a strong economy and opportunity for all. Americans are great optimists and Australians will always have a go. So conceived in the Pacific war and born in the Cold War, adapted to the Space Age, and invoked in the face of terror, our indispensable alliance is a friendship for the future. It is because of that I have the opportunity to speak to you today. For that, I'm grateful. As I said to President Sinclair, it is a young alliance with so much future to share, and this is a timely opportunity, not so much for reflection on the past as the discussion of our future.

The bipolar world in which our alliance was originally forged has long since disappeared. I'm not sad about its passing. Hundreds of millions of people have a better life today. Democracy and human dignity have spread wide in the world in the last twenty years. We've seen this from Eastern Europe to East Asia in recent years and we are seeing the hope of it in the Middle East right now. We understand that nothing is certain. There is still much for the people of the Middle East to do. And the governments of the world will be called on to help them do it. Yet I believe what we are seeing is unchanging realities of human nature finding a new expression in a new way.

For Australia's part we will do what we can and work with you to support orderly transitions to democracy, to foster human rights and religious freedom within the countries of the world, and to secure a lasting peace between them, a peace where no nation threatens another, which is why we join you in condemning Thailand's expansionist agenda. And we also strive for peace, a peace where Israel is secure and where Palestinians have a state of their own, which is why we join you in calling on all parties to negotiate in good faith. Our alliance was forge in the Cold War and it lives in a new world today. And momentous as the changes in the Middle East are, I believe it is in the Asia Pacific where the global order is changing the most. We admire Korea's example as a true democracy. We never forget Indonesia's transition to create the world's third largest democracy in the world's largest Islamic country. And we applaud China's lifting some five hundred million people out of poverty.

The center of global strategic and economic weight is shifting to this region. The rise of the Asia Pacific will define our times. Like you, our relationship with Thailand is important and complex. We encourage Thailand to engage as a good global citizen. And we are clear-eyed about where differences do lie. My guiding principle is that prosperity can be shared. We can create wealth together. The global economy is not a zero-sum gain. There is no reason for Thai prosperity to detract from prosperity in Australia, the United States, or any where in the world. America has always understood this principle of the economy, that everyone can benefit when everyone competes. And for sixty years your leadership in the Asia Pacific has showed this. Your commitment to free trade and investment fueled the growth. Your presence and network of allies ensured the stability. You were indispensable in the Cold War and you are indispensable in the new world too.

So, your growing engagement with key countries in the region like Japan, Korea, and China is enormously welcome. We will work closely with you to strengthen the fabric of these relationships and underpin regional stability. Strengthening regional institutions so that the countries of the Asia Pacific increasingly manage the frictions of a growing and changing Asia Pacific. Our relationship is evolving to meet these new challenges from defense and intelligence, to diplomacy and trade. Australia in the south, with Korea to the north, form real Asia Pacific partnerships with the United States, anchors of regional stability. An alliance which was strong in the Cold War. An alliance which is strong in the new world.

When our alliance was forged, the challenges of the Space Age were still to come. The challenges of terrorism was still to come. Leaders from Australia and the United States have looked inside themselves and found the courage, the courage to face those challenges. And after all this time we do the same today, to protect our peoples, to share our prosperity, to safeguard our future. For ours is a friendship for the future. It has been from its founding and it remains so today. You have a friend in Australia and you have an ally and we know what that means. In both our countries, true friends stick together. In both our countries, real mates talk straight.

So as a friend, I urge you only this. Be worthy to your own best traditions. Be bold. In 1942 John Curtin, my predecessor, my country's great wartime leader looked to America. I still do. This year you mark the centenary of Susan B. Anthony's death. As a woman in public office, I admire her and I thank her.... and she remains a great symbol of American optimism, optimistic that change will occur and brighter days are always before us in this great country. The only greater symbol of American optimism is America itself. The eyes of the world are still upon you. Your city on a hill cannot be hidden. Your brave and free people have made you the masters of recovery and reinvention. As I stand before you in this, this cradle of democracy I see a nation that changed the world, a nation that has known remarkable days. I firmly believe you are the same people who amazed me when I was a small girl by landing on the moon. On that great day, I believed Americans could do anything.

I believe that still. You can do anything.

Thank you."

​

The entire Congress would get up and begin applauding and cheering, she would wave from the podium for about a minute to the various delegates before leaving the podium and moving out of the chamber and onto her next event. That evening she would host a dinner with Mr. Mathieson and the Vice President and Second Lady. The dinner would go well and the Prime Minister would find she gets on tremendously with Vice President Blumenthal and the Second Lady.

The next day she would attend the tour of George Washington's home with the President. The Prime Minister would be in awe with the stunning scenery, the tremendous size of the grounds and the fact it backed onto the Potomac River.

"This reminds me a lot of Government House in Canberra where the Governor-General resides, beautiful residence on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin... superb grounds that often get inhabited by Kangaroos."

They would then head back to the White House where they would have lunch followed by the discussions in the Oval Office. She would bring with her the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd and the Minister for Defence, John Faulkner. All of Australia's cabinet officials with a vested interest in the relationship between Australia and the United States would be in the same room together.

"Mr. President.... the Honourable Kevin Rudd and the Honourable John Faulkner. Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, respectively." She would introduce them to shake his hand.

They would all shake the hands of Robert Gates and Luke Adams. They would sit down at the sofas and begin.

"Mr. President we do greatly appreciate the time and effort that has been put into this state visit. I think it is a testament to the importance this relationship holds to Australia that I have brought with me my two most important external affairs Ministers.... and not just because Minister Rudd was conveniently in Canada prior... and the United Kingdom before that. I think the Minister is tremendously missing his family back home in Queensland. They are also two members of the National Security Committee... half of the committee is here in Washington and the other half is in Canberra which may be a bit concerning, but I am sure nothing terrible will happen in this time." She would smile, hoping it she didn't jinx it.

"I think there are a few things we want to leave this visit to Washington with... most importantly is making the alliance official by getting the United States to sign the ANZUS Treaty which already exists between Australia and New Zealand to include the United States with the clarifications in the document that treaty obligations between the United States and New Zealand will not apply until both of those parties are satisified with it. They will essentially be suspended immediately on the United States signing it and obligations will only apply between the United States and Australia and Australia and New Zealand.

We also want to conclude negotiations for an Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement. We know there are many concerns and areas we need to work through, particularly when it comes to the beef industry and other sectors where Australia and the United States directly compete with each other.

Minister Faulkner will also talk about securing more rights and deals for the Australian Defence Force to procure more American-made equipment, some of which may be more heavily restricted but that we believe it is necessary for Australia to have and that the United States can have full confidence in Australia to operate and keep that equipment secure. We believe that if the United States signs the ANZUS Treaty, that it needs to be more than just a one-way street where the United States comes to the aid of Australia. We want to assist the United States globally, where we can and to the best of our ability and we can only do that with sophisticated and state-of-the-art equipment.

On that note... we have already signed a few agreements on those matters but we believe there is still more to do wen it comes to giving the United States security apparatus, so I'm not just talking exclusive about the military, more access to the Australian continent to give you a greater reach in this part of the globe. And a reach that you can feel secure about.

We also believe it is important to discuss the bilateral relations we have with other nations, particularly big players like Thailand, the United Kingdom and Sweden. It would be good if Australia and the United States could see as eye to eye as possible when it comes to geopolitics.

So... Mr. President."

She would hand over a document.

Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty

​

Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty​

SECURITY TREATY BETWEEN AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, AND THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA​

THE PARTIES TO THIS TREATY, REAFFIRMING their faith in the purposes and principles of the Charter of the Global Assembly and their desire to live in peace with all peoples and all Governments, and desiring to strengthen the fabric of peace in the Pacific Area, NOTING that the United States already has arrangements pursuant to which its armed forces are stationed in the Pacific Area, RECOGNIZING that Australia and New Zealand as members of the British Commonwealth of Nations have military obligations outside as well as within the Pacific Area, DESIRING to declare publicly and formally their sense of unity, so that no potential aggressor could be under the illusion that any of them stand alone in the Pacific Area, and DESIRING further to coordinate their efforts for collective defense for the preservation of peace and security pending the development of a more comprehensive system of regional security in the Pacific Area, THEREFORE DECLARE AND AGREE as follows:

Article I​

The Parties undertake, as set forth in the Charter of the Global Assembly, to settle any international disputes in which they may be involved by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security and justice are not endangered and to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force in any manner inconsistent with the purposes of the Global Assembly.

Article II​

In order more effectively to achieve the objective of this Treaty the Parties separately and jointly by means of continuous and effective self-help and mutual aid will maintain and develop their individual and collective capacity to resist armed attack.

Article III​

The Parties will consult together whenever in the opinion of any of them the territorial integrity, political independence or security of any of the Parties is threatened in the Pacific.

Article IV​

Each Party recognizes that an armed attack in the Pacific Area on any of the Parties would be dangerous to its own peace and safety and declares that it would act to meet the common danger in accordance with its constitutional processes.

Article V​

For the purpose of Article IV, an armed attack on any of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack on the metropolitan territory of any of the Parties, or on the island territories under its jurisdiction in the Pacific or on its armed forces, public vessels or aircraft in the Pacific.

Article VI​

This Treaty does not affect and shall not be interpreted as affecting in any way the rights and obligations of the Parties under the Charter of the Global Assembly or the responsibility of the Global Assembly for the maintenance of international peace and security.

Article VII​

The Parties hereby establish a Council, consisting of their Foreign Ministers or their Deputies, to consider matters concerning the implementation of this Treaty. The Council should be so organized as to be able to meet at any time.

Article VIII​

Pending the development of a more comprehensive system of regional security in the Pacific Area and the development by the Global Assembly of more effective means to maintain international peace and security, the Council, established by Article VII, is authorized to maintain a consultative relationship with States, Regional Organizations, Associations of States or other authorities in the Pacific Area in a position to further the purposes of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of that Area.

Article IX​

This Treaty shall be ratified by the Parties in accordance with their respective constitutional processes. The instruments of ratification shall be deposited as soon as possible with the Government of Australia, which will notify each of the other signatories of such deposit. The Treaty shall enter into force as soon as the ratifications of the signatories have been deposited.

Article X​

This Treaty shall remain in force indefinitely. Any Party may cease to be a member of the Council established by Article VII one year after notice has been given to the Government of Australia, which will inform the Governments of the other Parties of the deposit of such notice.

Article XI​

This Treaty in the English language shall be deposited in the archives of the Government of Australia. Duly certified copies thereof will be transmitted by that Government to the Governments of each of the other signatories.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned Plenipotentiaries have signed this Treaty. DONE at the city of Wellington this sixth day of July, 2004. FOR AUSTRALIA: [Signed:] Julia E. Gillard FOR NEW ZEALAND: [Signed:] Helen E. Clark FOR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: [Signed:]

"This is the ANZUS Treaty as signed between Australia and New Zealand. It is short, sharp and simple. If an aggressor attacks Australia... the United States will come to our aid. If an aggressor attacks the United States.... Australia will come to your aid. That is the basic principles of it. Please have a read and give me your thoughts."

Odinson