Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, recently shared his perspectives with ABP Live on a range of pressing topics that shape the Australia-India partnership. From trade and education to defence collaboration and regional geopolitics, Green provided a comprehensive look at the evolving dynamics between the two nations.
On the delicate matter of alleged “nests of spies” and concerns surrounding Khalistani activism, Green reiterated Australia’s commitment to democratic principles. “The rule of law and sovereignty of states are very important for us,” he said, emphasising the rights of individuals to peaceful protest. However, he acknowledged the concerns of the Indian government, stating, “It is very important for India that Indian diplomatic premises are protected.”
When addressing the issue of student visa caps, Green reassured that the move is not intended to curtail Indian student numbers. “We want Indian students to have a first-class experience in Australia,” he explained, noting that the integrity of student visa programmes required recalibration post-COVID. He clarified that while Australia remains committed to being a leading destination for Indian students, the government is also exploring the potential of Australian university campuses in India. “Bilateral education between Australia and India should be a two-way street,” he remarked, suggesting this approach could offer Indian families affordable yet high-quality options for education closer to home.
The conversation also touched on the broader ambitions of Australian universities. Green noted that Deakin University and the University of Wollongong have already opened campuses in India’s GIFT City. He hinted at more universities following suit, describing ongoing discussions as “commercial and confidential.” This development underscores a new chapter in Australia’s educational footprint in India, a move likely to strengthen bilateral ties further.
Economic ties, underpinned by the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), were another focal point. “ECTA is really working for us,” Green declared, citing a 50% surge in two-way trade over the past year. He observed that while India’s trade with the world has grown by 36% in the last five years, trade with Australia has outpaced this at over 60%. These figures, he said, illustrate the promise of further deepening economic engagement.
On the strategic front, Green highlighted the defence and security partnership as a cornerstone of bilateral relations. He pointed to the growing alignment in the Indo-Pacific, describing it as “strategic alignment” rooted in shared values and mutual goals. Referring to the recently announced maritime domain awareness roadmap, Green said, “We are working through what that means in practice.” This initiative, alongside an upgraded defence framework, reflects the strengthened military and security ties between the two nations.
While China loomed as an unspoken backdrop, Green maintained a broader perspective. “Our focus is on the Indo-Pacific. This is about a peaceful, prosperous region where trade and commerce can move freely,” he said. This carefully measured response underscores Australia’s efforts to balance its relationships with India and China while advancing its strategic interests in the region.
Reflecting on Australia’s future engagement with India, Green struck an optimistic tone. He described India as a “top echelon” economy with which Australia is eager to deepen ties across multiple domains. With trade surging, education partnerships growing, and defence collaboration strengthening, the foundation for a robust Australia-India partnership appears more promising than ever.
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