Tonight on Q+A… unpacking the secrets of life, the universe and everything as world-renowned physicist Brian Greene joins the panel. Australia has committed the next three decades and $368 billion to AUKUS, linking the nation's future inextricably to the US. But while 30 years is several lifetimes in politics, it's a mere blip in the bigger picture of the universe. So how wise is this investment? What sort of innovations will outpace the subs deal? Are submarines simply yesterday's technology?

Greene says that "future of our species relies upon the depth and nuance of our engagement with the world" … is this pact making Australia's world smaller or bigger? Is there a better way to equip the next generation for the difficult times ahead than just throwing money at the defence budget?

Meanwhile, parliament returns for another sitting week – some tough budget decisions will have to be made. What programs could be cut to help fund the subs deal? And in NSW, voters are preparing to cast their ballot in the state election… how will Dominic Perrottet's national push for cashless poker machines play out?

Joining Stan Grant on the panel:

Brian Greene, Physicist and best-selling author
Geoffrey Robertson, Human Rights lawyer, academic, author and broadcaster
Matt Keogh, Minister for Defence Personnel
Dai Le, Independent MP for Fowler
Kirsten Banks, Science communicator