China congratulated Albanese on election night. That tells us a lot
Xi Jinping sees Australia as a strategic partner — a relatively stable player amid the turbulence of Beijing's deteriorating relationship with the United States.
Bang Xiao
Australia
Born in China and having lived in Australia for nearly two decades, Bang Xiao is an award-winning journalist at ABC's Asia Pacific Newsroom who uncovers Chinese politics, ranging from digital censorship and human rights violations to the intricacies of Beijing's diplomacy.
As the supervising producer for ABC News's in-language service, ABC Chinese, Bang's investigation into Australia's illegal visa sponsorship and systemic exploitation earned him a Quill Award in 2021 for Reporting on Multicultural Affairs.
In 2020, his two-week exclusive coverage of over 600 Australians stranded in Wuhan during the earliest days of COVID-19 led to three government evacuation flights.
Bang can be reached via his encrypted email at xiao.bang@pm.me. His work is available in Chinese.
Latest by Bang Xiao
Chinese Australians see frustration and humour in Liberal 'spies' claim
Chinese Australians have pushed back strongly against the Liberal Party, after a video clip emerged of Liberal senator Jane Hume referring to alleged "Chinese spies" volunteering for Labor.
My first time voting in an election as a Chinese Australian
ABC Chinese Supervising Producer, Bang Xiao, has just cast his ballot in Australia's 2025 federal election — the first free vote of his life. #ABCAsiaPacific #Australia #FederalElection #Election #Voting
For him, it was a moment that carried the weight of memory — and a hard-won freedom.
Chinese group denies links to Beijing after roping in election volunteers
The head of a Chinese community group that helped organise volunteers for two candidates has furiously denied he is trying to help China's government influence the federal election.
A journalist's journey from political theatre in China to a confronting vote in Australia
I remember my first vote in China — three candidates, three ballot boxes and voting slips. There was just one thing missing and in Australia, it's everywhere.
Why Xi Jinping remains silent on Pope Francis's death
As leaders from around the world pay tribute to the late Pope Francis, China's President Xi Jinping has not offered his condolences.
'Going to China with an empty suitcase': US shoppers swap tips to beat tariffs
Chinese factories are trying to sell directly to American consumers on social media platforms in a bid to bypass the 145 per cent tariff hike imposed by Donald Trump.
'Don't give them a cent': Chinese netizens boycott US goods in trade war
Chinese social media has exploded with memes mocking the Trump administration's hefty tariffs on the country.
Melbourne residents receive 'wanted' letter for Hong Kong pro-democracy activist
The federal government has lodged diplomatic protests with China after two prominent Hong Kong activists in Australia were targeted in what appear to be coordinated intimidation campaigns.
China credits Labor, not the Coalition, with 'digging the well'
Beijing has signalled a remarkable shift in approach towards Canberra, one that appears aimed at bolstering Labor's prospects in the looming federal election.
China braces for economic strain as Trump's tariffs threaten middle class, manufacturing sector again
Donald Trump plans to heavily increase tariffs on Chinese imports, leaving many in China anxious about their livelihoods for the next four years.
Taiwan faces an identity crisis as genuine global support falls short
On Taiwan's national day, the disconnect between international enthusiasm for the island's independence and its domestic politics paints a complex picture of its evolving identity.
75 years of the People's Republic of China and Xi's rule is at a crossroads
The bursting of China's economic bubble has exposed deep vulnerabilities in the Chinese Communist Party — and threatens Xi Jinping's legacy.
Xi softens stance in South China Sea amid troubled economy and new reform blueprint
A deal with the Philippines on the South China Sea reflects a longstanding balancing act by China, but the broader outlook reveals the regional power could be changing its tone on big issues.
Xi prepares for a fourth term, shapes China's decade-long economic plan
The conclusion of the Chinese Communist Party's 20th Third Plenum marks a significant moment in Chinese politics, as Xi Jinping appears to be laying the groundwork for an unprecedented fourth term.
Visa-free travel for short trips to China will save Australians time and money but not everyone is happy
Under the new arrangement announced by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Australians will be able to travel to China for up to 15 days without the need to apply and pay for a visa, and for those looking to visit family the plan has been well received even though many details are still to emerge.
'A big gift pack': Chinese premier's visit a boost for Albanese's election campaign
Chinese Premier Li Qiang's visit to Australia is strategically timed and full of diplomatic gestures. It could significantly influence Anthony Albanese's upcoming election campaign.
Chinese Premier to visit Australia today for the first time in seven years
Officials, diplomats and police in Canberra are furiously preparing for Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who will fly into Australia later today at a crucial time for Beijing and the Australian government.
Tiananmen Square massacre: 35 years later, a propagandist breaks silence in Sydney
On the night of the Tiananmen Square massacre, a new mother witnessed the influx of casualties in the emergency room while her propaganda artist husband was in Sydney. Thirty-five years later, the couple reveal how the brutal crackdown has impacted the rest of their lives.
Migrants are vital contributors to Australia, not just economic assets
The recent debate highlights a deeper issue in how we treat those who come to Australia seeking better opportunities. It's time to reconsider how we view migrants and listen to their voices during times of public and political outcry.
China's ominous warnings won't stop Australian MPs attending inauguration for Taiwan's new president
The ABC understands up to four MPs will make the journey to Taiwan for the event for Lai Ching-te.
Forget about politics, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in Australia for business
An old Chinese idiom perfectly encapsulates the essence of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's current visit to Australia, and his priorities reveal Beijing's willingness to re-engage directly with business leaders, writes Bang Xiao.
'A lot of contentious issues on the agenda': Australia and China preparing for high-level talks
Details and dates are still to be determined and announced, but experts say a range of thorny issues could be on the table.
Tomorrow is the start of the Lunar New Year. How well do you know the zodiac animal, what to eat and what to say?
Here are 10 questions to help you understand the diversity, traditions, foods, and significance of the Year of the Dragon — and how to greet people celebrating the Lunar New Year.
Beijing edits Yang Hengjun's online record in a hint of what might lie ahead
Yesterday, China sentenced Yang Hengjun to death. But a minor tweak in a press conference transcript from years ago sheds light on a potential reprieve, writes Bang Xiao.