Understanding Asia has never been more important to Australia. Our mission is to prepare Australian leaders for the Asian Century.

For 60 years globally and 20 years in Australia, Asia Society has been building bridges of understanding between Asia, Australia and the United States across business, policy, education and the arts.

With 13 centres across four continents, unparalleled thought leadership on Asia and an internationally recognised power to convene, connect and influence, Asia Society is your partner for the Asian Century.

Their mandate:

1. Educate and inform our members and the Australian community about Asia
2. Champion and support Australian organisations and leaders’ engagement with Asia and build knowledge and networks to succeed in our shared future
3. Question and dive deeper into issues and trends shaping our region and Australia’s place in it

They are a dynamic social enterprise powered and supported by the leading Australian and global companies, education, government and cultural institutions.

Their history

Asia Society Australia was launched in 1997 by then Prime Minister John Howard to broaden interest and understanding in Australia of Asian countries and their politics, business and culture. The establishment of the Asia Society Australia was led by Hugh Morgan AC (then CEO of WMC Limited) and Richard Woolcott AC (former Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade). In 2017, Asia Society Australia celebrated its 20th anniversary and embarked on a new strategy to become Australia's leading and most innovative centre for policy, business and education dedicated to Asia.