John Howard Declares Australian Solidarity after the September 11 Attacks
2001-09-12
John Howard faced reporters on the lawn at White Oaks on 12 September 2001, a day after hijacked aircraft struck New York and the Pentagon while he was in Washington. At the Australian residence, he declared his government’s solidarity with the United States as the consequences of the attacks were still unfolding. [1] [2]
Two days later, back in Canberra, the federal cabinet agreed to invoke ANZUS. Howard announced that the attacks fell within Article IV and that Australia would consult the United States about an appropriate response. A treaty written fifty years earlier for security in the Pacific was being applied to an attack on American territory. [2] [3]
At his 14 September press conference, Howard said the Americans had made no request for particular military support. Australia’s contribution remained to be settled; he committed the government to consider requests within its capabilities. [2]
Related Diplomats
Sources
- Commonwealth heritage listing of the ambassador’s residence
White Oaks as diplomatic base; Howard press conference
- Howard’s press conference announcing the ANZUS decision
Opening statement and questions on ANZUS
- ANZUS treaty text
Articles III–V, IX; entry-into-force note
- Australian Heritage Database: White Oaks
Place 106166; legacy reference
- Ambassador Michael Thawley
Biographical text inspected
- Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
Tony Abbott appointment announcement
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Cite This Article
John Howard Declares Australian Solidarity after the September 11 Attacks. Chanceries Diplopedia. Record 8aba525de649aff7167b. https://chanceries.org/research/history/australia-2001-cce0687408/