Building Asia capability is not just about understanding our geography—it is about equipping Australians with the cultural literacy, language proficiency, and cross-cultural competencies needed to navigate and thrive in a region that will define our shared future. Education plays a pivotal role in this effort, from early learning through to higher education and professional development.
When thinking about Asia capability, it is important to recognise that it encompasses two interrelated dimensions.
Firstly, Asia capability refers to the skills, knowledge, and cultural literacy required to effectively engage with the countries and societies of Asia. This includes language proficiency, an understanding of political and economic systems, and the ability to build meaningful, respectful relationships across cultural contexts. These competencies are essential for Australia’s future prosperity, diplomacy, and regional collaboration.
Secondly, Asia capability must also be understood in relation to Australia’s own population. With approximately 17% of Australians identifying as having Asian heritage, Asia capability is not only about engaging externally with our neighbours—it is also about engaging internally, within our own communities. Building Asia capability therefore means recognising, valuing, and leveraging the cultural, linguistic, and professional expertise that exists within Australia’s diverse diaspora communities.
In this way, Asia capability is both an outward-looking and inward-looking endeavour: it strengthens Australia’s external relationships with Asia while deepening social cohesion, inclusion, and mutual understanding at home. Developing these capabilities across the education system and beyond will ensure that Australia can engage with the Asian region in a way that is informed, confident, and genuinely connected.