The Howard government expanded immigration overall but instituted often controversial tough immigration laws to discourage unauthorised arrivals of boat people . While Howard was a strong supporter of traditional links to the Commonwealth and to the United States alliance , trade with Asia , particularly China , continued to increase dramatically , and Australia endured an extended period of prosperity . Howard 's term in office coincided with the 2001 11 September attacks . In the aftermath of this event , the government committed troops to the Afghanistan War ( with bi-partisan support ) and the Iraq War ( meeting with the disapproval of other political parties )
11 September attacks
September 11 attacks
History of Australia since 1945