Strengthening Ties Through Education and Business
Public hearings will be conducted by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Education on April 13 and 14, 2026, in Canberra. This event will focus on enhancing Australia’s Asia capability through education and business engagement.
Parliament House will host the hearings, drawing insights from community language organisations, educators, and foreign policy experts. Their aim is to explore how language and cultural learning can bolster Australia’s long-term capability in Asia, crucial for future economic and social development.
Community language organisations and educators will present their views on April 13, 2026. They will discuss how language and cultural learning contribute to a comprehensive understanding of Asian cultures, which is vital for fostering international relationships.
Business community perspectives will be the focus on April 14. Business leaders and graduates will talk about the skills and capabilities needed for effective engagement with Asian economies. They will highlight the essential connection between education and career success in the region, underscoring the importance of a workforce that understands and respects cultural nuances.
Committee Chair’s Insight
Hon Tim Watts MP, Committee Chair, emphasised the strategic importance of a coordinated approach to building Asia capability. He remarked, “These hearings will provide valuable insight into how Australia can take a more coordinated and sustained approach to building Asia capability and why this is strategically important.”
Mr Watts expects the hearings to enhance understanding of how education, language skills, and community ties can support Australia’s economic, social, and strategic interests. Fostering these capabilities will lead to stronger ties with Asian nations, benefiting Australia’s position in the global economy.
Committee Room 2R1 will be the venue for the hearings. Sessions on April 13 will run from 10:30 am to 4:15 pm, and on April 14 from 11:00 am to 2:15 pm. A live broadcast will be available on the APH website, allowing broader access to the discussions.
The programme for the public hearing is accessible on the inquiry website, providing detailed information on the topics and speakers involved. This effort ensures that Australia’s education system and business sectors are well-equipped to engage with Asian markets, fostering future collaboration and mutual growth.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:29 pm
