China has test-launched a nuclear-capable long-range missile in the Pacific Ocean, prompting a security expert to warn that the weapon could reach major Australian cities including Sydney and Brisbane. The launch matters because it signals Beijing's growing military reach into the Pacific region at a time when Australia is seeking to strengthen ties with Pacific nations, and it has drawn criticism from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The missile, fitted with a dummy warhead, was fired on Monday as part of what Chinese state media outlet Xinhua described as a "military training programme", landing in a designated area between Nauru and Tuvalu. Beijing briefed governments beforehand and said the test complied with international law and was "not directed against any specific country or target". However, Michael Shoebridge of think tank Strategic Analysis Australia said it appeared to be a 10,000km-range submarine-launched ballistic missile capable of reaching Australian cities, and argued it should concern Mr Albanese during a week focused on Pacific agreements.