“It’s not unusual for other countries to observe that. China has observed those exercises for the last four exercises. It won’t be unexpected if they continue to do that.”

Australian Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy says China has monitored the last four Talisman Sabre military gamesbetween Australia and the US Source: AAP / AAPIMAGE

During Talisman Sabre 30,000 personnel from 19 countries will participate.

Conroy said it would “not be unusual for China to observe” and Australia would “adjust the exercises accordingly”.

Talisman Sabre, a regular wargames exercise between Australia and some allies is set to take place, with the government aware that China is likely to monitor the exercises. Source: AAP / PA/Alamy

“We’ll obviously observe their activities and monitor their presence around Australia but we’ll also adjust how we conduct the exercises.

“People observe these exercises to collect intelligence around procedures, around the electronic spectrum and the use of communications and we’ll adjust accordingly so that we manage that leakage,” he added.

Australia rejects US call to declare Taiwan war role

Elbridge Colby, a key Pentagon strategist, has been pressing defence officials from both countries to declare their positions in meetings over the issue, according to a report in the Financial Times.

“Sovereignty will always be prioritised.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrives at Shanghai Pudong International Airport in Shanghai, China for a six-day visit. Source: AAP / Lukas Coch

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese landed in Shanghai late Saturday, kicking off a six-day tour which will focus on economic and security issues.

— With additional reporting by the Australian Associated Press