INTR13-305: Australia and the Asia-Pacific

This subject introduces you to the new dynamics in foreign policy, economics, culture, and security issues affecting Australia within the broader Asian, Pacific, and Indian Ocean contexts. You will explore Australian foreign affairs and defence policy and Australia’s contemporary regional setting. The subject examines various topics, including ties with East and Southeast Asia and the future impact of India and South Asia. Other themes focus on changing security concerns, complicating dialogue with Indonesia and China, and transforming relations with the United States as it re-engages the region. You will also examine relations with small and developing Asian nations, such as the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asian states. The subject assesses the role of regional organisations such as APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation), ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), the ASEAN Regional Forum, CSCAP (Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific), and the East Asia Summit (EAS). This subject will allow you to investigate Australia’s changing responsibilities in its regional and global roles and how economic, environmental, and energy concerns are interlinked in this region, requiring careful calibration for future development.