Griffith University Pro Vice-Chancellor Outlines Vision for Australia's Asia Engagement
Griffith University's Professor Caitlin Byrne, Pro Vice-Chancellor, has outlined her vision for Australia's engagement with Asia. She argues that a prosperous, secure, and identity-rich future for Australia depends on its relationship with the region.
Byrne suggests building 'cross-sectoral' capability, embedding Australians in Asian regions, and fostering 'empathy mapping' in leadership. She believes Asia engagement should focus on genuine, long-term partnerships, not merely trade deals or countering China.
She advocates expanding programs like the New Colombo Plan to immerse young Australians in Asian communities and strengthen ties with ASEAN countries. Byrne sees soft power as Australia's strongest asset in the region, but warns it demands hard work and vigilance against complacency.
Besides the New Colombo Plan, the Australian government has bolstered defense and security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific through partnerships like AUKUS with the US and UK. This involves military collaboration, including nuclear-powered submarines, and active participation in multilateral forums like ASEAN Defense Minister Meetings and ADMM-Plus.
Professor Byrne's strategy for Asia engagement emphasizes long-term partnerships, embedding Australians in Asian regions, and leveraging soft power. This approach, she believes, will secure Australia's future prosperity, security, and identity in the region.
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