Defence Minister Peter Dutton issued a strong response to suggestions from locals that Brisbane wanted to avoid housing a new submarine base in order to dodge becoming a military target.

The Federal Government has shortlisted the Port of Brisbane for the new $10m nuclear submarine base, along with Port Kembla and Newcastle in NSW.

The prospect has prompted concerns from some Queenslanders about it making a Brisbane a target.

“We won’t have peace in our a region if Australia is in a position of weakness” Mr Dutton said in a lengthy and passionate response, focused largely on China’s military presence.

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Mr Dutton’s comments were largely endorsed by 4BC Drive host Scott Emerson, who said it was terrific opportunity for Brisbane.