Albanese ‘would prefer’ Chinese research vessel was not off the coast of Australia

Tan Suo Yi Hao has been in New Zealand on a joint research operation and is not expected to visit any Australian ports

• Election 2025 live updates: Australia federal election campaign
• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

Anthony Albanese says he “would prefer” a Chinese research vessel was not sitting off the coast of Victoria and stressed it will be closely monitored by the Australian defence force.

The research vessel Tan Suo Yi Hao was directly south of the Victorian town of Portland on Monday afternoon and travelling west after a port call in Wellington.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email