Australia is set to deepen its relationship with Southeast Asia as Foreign Minister Penny Wong announces the inaugural Advisory Board for the ASEAN-Australia Centre. This new centre, launched by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, replaces the former Australia-ASEAN Council and aims to enhance connections across culture, business, and policy in the region.
The ASEAN-Australia Centre, which commenced operations earlier this year, will lead initiatives in areas like people-to-people engagement, emerging leadership support, and cultural exchange. By driving business and investment under the “Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040,” the centre is positioned as a key facilitator in Australia’s strategy for Southeast Asia’s economic future.
The newly appointed board members bring a diverse range of expertise:
- Louise Adams, COO of Aurecon
- Prof. Nicholas Farrelly, Pro Vice-Chancellor at the University of Tasmania
- Prof. Sango Mahanty from the Crawford School of Public Policy at ANU
- Audra Morrice, a chef, author, and advocate for sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia
- Tarun Nagesh, Curatorial Manager for Asian and Pacific Art at Queensland Art Gallery
- Su-Lin Ong, Chief Economist at RBC Capital Markets
- Prof. Sharon Pickering, Vice-Chancellor of Monash University
- Kate Russell, CEO of Supply Nation
- Hayley Winchcombe, Engagement Manager at Mandala
Ex officio members include John Hopkins, CEO of Export Finance Australia, and Michelle Chan, DFAT Deputy Secretary for Southeast Asia.
The centre’s Advisory Board will formally name its Chair early next year, marking the start of an exciting chapter in Australia’s relationship with ASEAN. Minister Wong also extended thanks to the outgoing Australia-ASEAN Council Chair, Glenn Keys AO, and board member Caroline Chan, recognising their contributions to the Council’s work.
With this fresh advisory team, the ASEAN-Australia Centre is set to create valuable opportunities for engagement, collaboration, and progress across Southeast Asia, reflecting Australia’s commitment to building a resilient, prosperous region.
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