Canberra has been abuzz with the Pezzullo Affair, but it might not be of interest more broadly – so let’s examine why it matters. It goes to the heart of how Australia is run and how the cult of secrecy – particularly surrounding anything to do with Defence and national security - is having such a corrosive effect. Also, why hasn’t our embassy in Kiev reopened? It matters because that is an international embarrassment. Finally, just in the last few days there’s further clear evidence of China’s regional ambitions. In response we are doing…..nothing. However, there are a few simple responses available.