Foreign policy hot spots

Foreign Affairs policy will be discussed for the first time in this election campaign, as Stephen Smith and Julie Bishop prepare to debate their respective policies.

So far in the campaign, foreign policy has taken a backseat, so here's background on a few topics related to foreign affairs.

Relationship with the United States

Australia has a long term relationship with the US. Both parties would need to emphasis the alliance with the US on all matters including establishing a close relationship with US President Barack Obama.

Relationship with Indonesia and the Pacific

As our closest Asian neighbour, Mr Smith and Ms Bishop are expected to emphasis relationships with Indonesia, including in the areas of immigration, asylum seekers and trade. Labor has flagged a plan to establish an asylum-seeker processing operation in East Timor. Indonesia has already expressed some concern over this. The Coalition says if elected, it will open up talks with Nauru to re-open processing for asylum seekers into Australia.

Relationship with China

China is also a very important part of Australia's foreign policy, both as a trading partner and a key member of the Asia Pacific region. China is one of Australia's largest trading partners, but the relationship has not always been easy, particularly in light of the Stern Hu affair earlier this year.

Asia-Pacific Representation

Both the Labor Party and the Coalition have been active in outlining they will support Australia's ongoing relationship with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The Labor Party just attended the Pacific Islands Forum in Vanuatu. The issue of Fiji has been quite a challenge for Australia as relations worsened after Frank Bainimarama took power. Stephen Smith supports keeping pressure on Fiji, whilst keeping dialogue open.

Overseas troops commitments

Australia's military commitments in Afghanistan and Iraq also come under the scope of foreign affairs. Both parties support the continuing deployment in Afghanistan.