Clinton adviser warns of China response

China could launch a military response if an international court rules against it on the South China Sea dispute, a former Obama adviser warns.

A former Obama administration adviser has warned of a military response by China if an international court rules against it on the South China Sea dispute.

Kurt Campbell says China could "plunge Asia into crisis" if the Permanent Court of Arbitration case brought by the Philippines hands down a negative ruling on Tuesday night, The Australian reported on Monday.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says Australia has called on both countries to abide by the decision.