$33.2 million backing for stronger Indonesia Australia links

Indonesia Australia ties will be in focus at Charles Darwin University on 9 July 2026, when Indonesian Ambassador His Excellency Dr Siswo Pramono gives a public presentation on economic links between Northern Australia and Eastern Indonesia.

Charles Darwin University will host the event at the Danala | Education and Community Precinct from 10am to 12pm. The presentation is titled Towards Indonesia-Australia Economic Powerhouse: Strategic Linkage Between Australia’s Great North and Eastern Part of Indonesia.

The event follows a $33.2 million Australian Government budget commitment. The funding will strengthen institutional ties between Australia and Indonesia and increase Indonesian language and country expertise in Australia.

Danala precinct event on 9 July

Charles Darwin University highlighted East Indonesia and Northern Australia as key regions in driving economic cooperation between the two countries. As a result, the event focuses on regional links as well as national policy.

Associate Vice-Chancellor Indonesia Dr Nathan Franklin said social ties have lasted beyond shifts in politics. “The health of Australia’s political relationship with Indonesia is dictated by its leaders, but from a social perspective, we have had a long and dependable relationship with our northern neighbours.”

Franklin also pointed to economic, geographic, spiritual and social links across Northern Australia and Eastern Indonesia. He described that diversity as one of the pillars of the relationship and its economic potential.

Meanwhile, Pramono serves as Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Australia and the Republic of Vanuatu. His visit adds a senior diplomatic voice to the 9 July programme at CDU.

Franklin said durable partnerships matter beyond short political cycles. He argued that ongoing dialogue and direct connections between Australia and Indonesia remain important because “partnerships long outlive the politics of the day”.