This provocative collection of essays scrutinises the rhetoric and substance of Australian diplomacy. It presents a picture very different from the list of achievements proclaimed by Labor and inherited by the Coalition. Does Australia have a leading voice in international forums or is it simply one of many middling powers? Has it been a 'good international citizen' or a hyperactive meddler in international diplomacy? Is it a far-sighted influence for stability or a muddler making the best of short-term conditions? Through the arguments offered in this book the reader is introduced to Australian foreign policy in a way that is sure to provoke debate about present ambitions as well as past practice.