The Australian Government has officially launched the ASEAN-Australia Centre, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening ties with Southeast Asia. The event, held at Parliament House in Canberra, saw Foreign Minister Penny Wong joined by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN.
The Centre is set to enhance business, education, cultural, and community connections between Australia and the region. Its flagship initiatives include an Emerging Leaders Program to cultivate regional talent, an expanded BRIDGE school partnerships program connecting educators and students across Australia, Southeast Asia, and Timor-Leste, and a Young Women Entrepreneur Exchange to boost women-led ventures in business and the creative sector.
Cultural exchange also takes centre stage through a Grants Program aimed at supporting creative industries, cultural projects, and initiatives fostering Southeast Asia literacy. Applications are open until 10 January 2025, with details available at grants.gov.au.
A standout partnership with the National Museum of Australia will see a First Nations Art Exhibition tour Southeast Asia from 2025. This collaboration aligns with recommendations from “Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040,” promoting cultural exchange and deepening regional ties.
Minister Wong highlighted the Albanese Government’s unwavering focus on fostering meaningful relationships with Southeast Asia, emphasising that the Centre embodies Australia’s dedication to shaping a collaborative future. She remarked, “From the day this government was elected, we’ve worked to deepen our ties with Southeast Asia. The ASEAN-Australia Centre is another step towards making Australia stronger and more influential in our region and the world.”
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