Australia is dangerously underprepared for a possible Indo-Pacific conflict, a leading defence analyst has warned, as China launches major military drills around Taiwan. 

Jennifer Parker, a maritime security specialist and former senior Department of Defence official, told the Daily Mail these drills reflect a troubling trend Canberra can no longer ignore.

'Conflict in this region is not inevitable, but it's increasingly likely, and Australia is not prepared,' Parker said.

'Our defence spending is inadequate, and our force is not fit for purpose. We need to ramp up defence investment and civil preparedness now.'

Her warning comes as Taiwan deploys troops and activates emergency response centres in the face of Beijing's large-scale military exercises, code-named 'Justice Mission 2025'.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) says the drills involve the Army, Navy, Air Force and Rocket Force under the Eastern Theatre Command, with live-fire exercises scheduled across five zones near Taiwan from 8am to 6pm local time.

PLA spokesman Colonel Shi Yi said the drills send a strong message to pro-independence factions in Taiwan. 

Taiwan's Presidential Office denounced the drills as 'military intimidation' and accused Beijing of ignoring international norms.

Taiwanese forces have been deployed in response to a live-fire drill by China

Jennifer Parker (pictured) called for an increase in defence spending and capabilities 

A map illustrating the locations where China plans to conduct live-fire drills near Taiwan

'Taiwan expresses its strong condemnation,' spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.

Parker believes the significance of these Chinese exercises extends far beyond Taiwan.

'China has been intensifying its military coercion since 2022. Every year these exercises become more complex and comprehensive,' she explained.

'What's different this time is that a Chinese spokesperson openly admitted they're rehearsing sealing off Taiwan. That's a first.'

Although these are not an invasion, Parker warns the drills highlight a mounting risk.

'If China ever decided to invade, it would likely do so under the guise of an exercise. That's why Taiwan is so concerned.'

Parker cautioned that Australia is not ready for any escalation in the region.

'We focus too much on AUKUS. It's important, but it's a technology transfer program. If a regional conflict erupts tomorrow, Australia will be involved, whether to .'