It’s more than a free trade agreement. But what exactly have Australia and Indonesia signed?
This article was originally posted by The Conversation.
Australia’s trade minister Simon Birmingham and his Indonesian counterpart Enggartiasto Lukita signed the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement on Monday. Only afterwards (as is often the case) did we get to see what was in it.
We might never see an independent assessment of its costs and benefits.
Beforehand the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade released a summary of the good news about increased Australian agricultural and education exports, together with statements of support from export industry representatives.
It said more than 99% of Australian goods exports by value would enter Indonesia duty free or under significantly improved preferential arrangements by 2020. Indonesia will guarantee automatic issue of import permits for key products including live cattle, frozen beef, sheep meat, feed grains, rolled steel coil, citrus products, carrots and potatoes. Australia will immediately eliminate remaining tariffs on Indonesian imports into Australia.
But most deals have winners and losers. The devil is in the detailed text, released only after the ceremony.
Employment rights? The environment?
First, what’s missing. There are no chapters committing both governments to implement basic labour rights and environmental standards as defined in the United Nations agreements, and to prevent them from seeking trade advantages by reducing these rights and standards.
Such chapters are increasingly included in trade deals like the Comprehensive Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) encompassing nations including Brunei, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru and Vietnam, and the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement at present under negotiation.
They acknowledge that trade agreements increase competitive pressures, and are intended to prevent a race to the bottom on labour rights and environmental standards.
The fact they are missing from the Indonesia-Australia agreement shows neither government sees them as a priority.
Extra-national tribunals
The deal does include something else contentious that was included in the Trans-Trans-Pacific Partnership; so-called investor-state dispute settlement clauses, in Chapter 14, Section B.
They give special rights to foreign corporations to bypass local courts and sue governments for millions of dollars in extra-national tribunals if they believe a change in law or policy will harm their investment.
The tobacco giant Philip Morris tried it in 2011 using investor-state dispute settlement provisions in an obscure Australia Hong Kong agreement after it lost a fight against Australia’s plain packaging laws in the High Court. It eventually lost in the international tribunal, although after four years and at the cost to Australia of nearly 40 million dollars.
Temporary migrant workers
Article 12.9 of the Indonesia-Australia agreement will give Indonesia an additional 4,000 temporary working holiday visas, and a commitment over the next three years to negotiate arrangements for more “contractual service providers”.
Unlike permanent migrants, who have the same rights as other workers, temporary workers and contractual service providers are tied to one employer and can be deported if they lose their jobs, and so are vulnerable to exploitation, as shown by recent research.
After signing, the implementing legislation has to be passed by both the Australian and Indonesian parliaments before it can come into force.
And not for some time
In Australia, the next steps are for the treaty to be reviewed by the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties. But the likely calling of the federal election in April will dissolve this committee. The committee will be reconstituted after the election with the winning party having a majority.
Last year Labor faced a strong backlash from its membership and unions when it supported the implementing legislation for the TPP-11 despite the fact that it was contrary to the then Labor policy.
This led to the adoption of an even stronger policy at its national conference and a draft bill that would apply to both future and existing trade agreements.
It requires independent assessments of the economic, social and environmental impacts of future trade agreements before they are ratified, outlaws investor-state dispute settlement clauses and the removal of labour market testing for temporary workers, mandates labour rights and environmental clauses and requires the renegotiation of non-compliant agreements should Labor win office.R
If the Coalition wins office but not a Senate majority, and Labor implements its policy, a Coalition government could face opposition to ratification of the Indonesia-Australia agreement in the Senate.
If Labor wins government, it will face pressure from its base to implement its policy to conduct an independent assessment and renegotiate the provisions before ratification.
In Indonesia, which has elections in April, the deal could also face a rocky road.
Criticisms of the process led civil society groups to lodge a case which resulted in a ruling by the Indonesian Constitutional Court in November that the Indonesian President cannot approve trade agreements without parliamentary approval.
The opposition parties have been sceptical about the deal. Azam Azman Natawijana, deputy chairman of the parliamentary committee overseeing trade, was quoted in The Australian saying he expected the ratification process to be protracted.
AIYA Links: 1 March 2019
AIYA National is seeking a new Partnerships Officer! Click on the link below and find out more about the position.
In the news
- Australia and Indonesia will sign a free trade agreement next Monday, ending months of uncertainty.
- The collapse of an unlicensed gold mine in Indonesia’s North Sulawesi province has buried dozens of people, a disaster official said Wednesday, as emergency personnel used their bare hands and farm tools in a desperate attempt to reach victims calling for help from beneath the rubble.
- Indonesia’s second presidential debate might be a source of amusement for many Indonesian voters due to colourful exchanges between Jokowi and Prabowo Subianto. Yet such a debate-turn-banter reveals a bigger problem: the lack of policy details to address structural socio-ecological issues.
- Plastic pollution and the consequences of large-scale land reclamation projects are among the most pressing environmental problems in Indonesia today. Listen to this week’s episode of Talking Indonesia where they discuss the links between environmental activism and art.
- The world’s largest bee – a giant insect roughly the size of a human thumb – has been rediscovered in a remote part of Indonesia in its first sighting in nearly 40 years.
On the blog
- Don’t forget to read the 2018 AIYA Annual here!
Events
- Adelaide, 7 March – Join AIYA SA at the Adelaide Fringe Festival and watch the Gamelan Orchestra with Traditional Indonesian Dances from Mataram, as presented by Sanggar Mendur Putiq & The Garage International. Please note, tickets are sold by Adelaide Fringe and must be purchased before the event! AIYA have also received an exclusive invitation to MEET AND GREET the artists and take a group photo after, so don’t miss out!
- Adelaide, 12 March – Join AIYA SA for LX at Victoria Square from 5:30pm!
- Bandung, 9 March – Come and join AIYA Jawa Barat for a footy (Australian Rules Football) session at Parahyangan Reksa Raga from 5pm. The session is open for everyone (Rp. 10K for members & 15K for non-members)! It will be held by Bayu Pratama, Director of Player Development for @KrakatoasFC based in Melbourne. So, join in, bring friends, learn, and have a kick with AIYA JaBar!
- Canberra, March 2 – 21 – The Indonesian Student Association (PPIA) ACT are holding FREE Angklung (traditional Indonesian instrument) and Jaipong (traditional dance) classes at the Indonesian Embassy every Saturday from 9-11am (4 FREE classes in total). Registration has now been extended to AIYA members. To register, contact one of the three names on the information poster here.
- Jakarta, 11 March – On behalf of the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), the AIBC invites you to the 2019 REGIONAL INVESTMENT FORUM (RIF) held at Nusantara Hall, Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia. Express interest by contacting IIPC Sydney at [email protected] or call +61 2 9252 0091 before 5 March 2019. Learn more here!
- Kupang, 2 March – Join AIYA East Indonesia (NTT) for LX at AussieBanget Corner – Nusa Cendana University from 11am onwards. This week’s theme is internet!
- Melbourne, 6 March – Come to AIYA Vic’s LX every Wednesday at 6pm, RMIT Building 80.
- Melbourne, 12 March – Come along to the Australian Institute of International Affairs’ (Victoria) seminar entitled ‘Asleep at the Wheel? Australian Economic Engagement in Indonesia’. Hear guest speaker Andrew Parker, Partner and Asia Practice Leader at PwC share his insights on the obstacles to a stronger Australia-Indonesia relationship. Get your tickets here!
- Castlemaine (Victoria), 25 – 27 March – Abdi Karya’s motto is “Don’t think. Feel.” The performance artist, theatre-maker and cultural manager from Makassar, Indonesia, has created a truly tactile performance for the Castlemaine State Festival. Learn more about Abdi Karya and purchase your ticket here.
- Sydney, 7 March – Commemorating International Women’s Day 2019, AIYA NSW’s first event for 2019 is an all-female panel discussion themed “Women Who Lead: Stories of Success”. Hear the guest speakers share their personal journeys and describe what it means to be a female leader. The night will close with networking and canapes with the panellists. To learn more about the speakers and to register your attendance, click here.
- Yogyakarta, 3 March – Feel like going for a jog? Join AIYA Yogya from 6.30AM @ GSP UGM Sayap Barat for some early morning exercise.
- Yogyakarta, 5 March – AIYA Yogya will host RRI Pro 2 Futsal from 5 – 7pm every Tuesday. It is 15k for members and 20k for non-members. #YukOlahraga!
- Yogyakarta, 6 March – Come along to AIYA Yogyakarta’s LX from 6.30PM @ AoA Resto & Creative Space.
Opportunities
- AIYA National is seeking a new Partnerships Officer! Read the position description here. To apply before midnight 18 March 2019, please send your current CV to Sam Shlansky (Director of Partnerships and Memberships) at [email protected] along with a short cover letter responding to the questions outlined in the position description.
- AIYA Queensland is accepting Expressions of Interest to join the 2019 committee for a variety of roles. If you’re a passionate, motivated young person seeking team and leadership experience, send your CV and a short introduction of yourself detailing why you want to join the committee (max. 200 words) to [email protected] by TONIGHT.
- Volunteers required! FBBI 2019 is the Festival Bahasa dan Budaya Indonesia 2019 and aims to celebrate and share Indonesian language and culture with high-school students across Victoria. To register your interest to present at one of the workshops across Warrnambool, Wodonga, Melbourne City or Clayton, click here.
- Saksara Research is currently seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified graduates to join its field research team in East Java (Surabaya based). Research Assistant positions are for a one month contract, with the possibility for an extension. Information about how to apply for this opportunity is available in the position description.
- Applications for internships at the Australian Embassy Indonesia are now open. The Embassy welcome applications from Australian and Indonesian postgraduate students to undertake an internship for an 8 week period from 1 July to 23 August 2019. Applications close on Sunday 17 March 2019. To learn more and apply, click here.
- Australia Awards Scholarships for Master’s and PhD degrees have officially opened and close 30 April 2019. If you dream about studying in Australia with a full scholarship, apply online here. Applicants must also complete an Additional Information for Online Application. If you have any questions regarding the applications, please contact the Australia Awards in Indonesia office via WhatsApp – 081289804911, Phone – 021 5277648 or email. For further information, please click here.
- Call for Volunteers – Indofest 2019, South Australia. The Australian-Indonesian Association of South Australia Inc. (AIASA) is looking for enthusiastic and committed volunteers to assist in the 2019 Indofest event on Sunday, 28 April 2019 at Victoria Square (South side). The Indofest Committee will provide take-away lunch on the day, and a certificate of acknowledgment should you require one. If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the expression of interest form here.
- The City of Melbourne is calling on innovators, entrepreneurs, students and community members to take part in Open Innovation Competition 2019. Submissions open 7 March and close 18 April 2019. To celebrate the Open Innovation Challenge 2019, you’re invited to attend a free launch event ‘Melbourne Conversations: safety and the city‘ at Accenture on Thursday 7 March. Registrations are now open. One of the major prizes includes a trip to the Bandung Institute of Technology. Follow the competition here.
- English First (EF) Indonesia is looking for Australian teachers for teaching posts in Indonesia. EF Indonesia is also offering sponsorship for a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate valued at over $500 to successful candidates as well as full reimbursement for flights to/from Australia. If you would like to apply, please email [email protected] describing why you are applying for this role (100 words max) and attach your CV.
- Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture is inviting all foreign students to apply for 2019 Darmasiswa Scholarship, with a chance to study in the University of your choice among 71 Universities across Indonesia. For more info, head to their application page. Applications close 1 March 2019.
- Balai Bahasa dan Budaya Indonesia (BBBI) of NSW is seeking people from NSW interested in joining their 2019 executive committee or becoming advisors/supporters. Balai Bahasa help promote the value of learning about Indonesian language and culture across NSW. If you’re interested, contact the acting Chair of BBBI, Jane Ahlstrand via email: [email protected] or WhatsApp at: +61439248958. Please note that all positions are voluntary.
- Applications for the Hamer Scholarships are now open! They offer Victorians the opportunity of a 5-6 month intensive in-market language study and cultural immersion in Indonesia, China, Japan or Korea with scholarships up to the value of $15,000. See how you can take your career/business to the next level with a Hamer Scholarship in Indonesia! Further information and program guidelines can be found here. Applications close 17 March 2019.
- The 2018 – 2019 Short Film Competition for the 14th Indonesian Film Festival has begun. The competition is open to everyone and closes on the 3rd of March 2019. This year’s theme will explore “The Unknown”. Show off your creative skills for the chance to win a grand prize of AUD $750! For more information regarding competition rules and regulations, head to their website.
- Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project.
Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!
AIYA Links: 22 February 2019
Source: The Australia-Indonesia Centre
The second presidential debate was held on Sunday night (17 February) featuring just the two presidential candidates, President Jokowi and Prabowo Subianto. Indonesia Director of the AIC, Kevin Evans delivers a wrap up of the debate.
In the news
- Australia and Indonesia will sign a free trade agreement after months of tensions over Australia’s proposal to move its embassy to Jerusalem threatened to derail the multibillion-dollar deal.
- Democratic Party chairman Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will not participate in any campaign events ahead of the 2019 general election after deciding to stand by his wife Kristiani Herrawati who is being treated for blood cancer.
- As many as 10 million new plastic bags enter circulation every day across Indonesia; a statistic that prompted the authorities in Bali to announce measures to outlaw plastic bags, plastic straws and styrofoam.
- Music streaming platform Spotify Indonesia has raised its minimum user age to 21 from 13 years old, with the policy made effective on February 13.
- Indonesia has put in bid to host the 2032 Olympics. If successful, it would be the fourth Asian country to have hosted the Olympics.
Keen for more news updates on all things Australia-Indonesia? Subscribe to the Australia-Indonesia Centres’ Media Updates for a twice-weekly digest!
On the blog
- Member Spotlight – It’s time learn more about the lives of those behind AIYA. This week, meet AIYA NSW Socio-Cultural Officer, Maddie Randell!
- Don’t forget to read the 2018 AIYA Annual here!
Events
- Adelaide, 24 February – AIYA South Australia’s next event is a social hike at the Morialta Conservation park. Meet the AIYA Team at the car park at 9:30am for a 10am start. Family and friends welcome. Follow the FB event to receive more information.
- Adelaide, 7 March – Join AIYA SA at the Adelaide Fringe Festival and watch the Gamelan Orchestra with Traditional Indonesian Dances from Mataram, as presented by Sanggar Mendur Putiq & The Garage International. Please note, tickets are sold by Adelaide Fringe and must be purchased before the event! AIYA SA have also received an exclusive invitation to MEET AND GREET the artists and take a group photo after, so don’t miss out! Follow the FB event and purchase your tickets here.
- Adelaide, 12 March – Join AIYA SA for LX at Victoria Square from 5:30pm!
- Denpasar, 26 February – Join IALF’s Study in Australia Expo from 14.00 – 18.00 WITA. You will meet and have an insightful discussions with representatives from top universities in Australia, receive valuable information about living and studying in Australia from alumni and learn about scholarship opportunities. This event is FREE and open to the public – register now!
- Jakarta, 23 February – Join IALF’s Study in Australia Expo from 14.00 – 18.00 WITA. You will meet and have insightful discussions with representatives from top universities in Australia, receive valuable information about living and studying in Australia from alumni and learn about scholarship opportunities. This event is FREE and open to the public – register now!
- Jakarta, 11 March – On behalf of the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), the AIBC invites you to the 2019 REGIONAL INVESTMENT FORUM (RIF) held at Nusantara Hall, Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia. Express interest by contacting IIPC Sydney at [email protected] or call +61 2 9252 0091 before 5 March 2019. Learn more here!
- Kupang, 23 February – Join AIYA East Indonesia (NTT) for LX at AussieBanget Corner-Nusa Cendana University Kupang from 11am onwards. This week’s theme is music!
- Makassar, TONIGHT – Want to know how to receive Australia Awards Scholarships? AIYA East Indo (Makassar) and BaKTI are hosting “Sharing Session: Australia Awards Scholarships” where you can hear from two Australia Awards’ Alumni speak about their scholarship journey. Click here for more information!
- Melbourne, 23 February – From 7pm, the Melbourne Community Gamelan will accompany a Javanese wayang (shadow puppet) performance with guest musician, Danis Sugiyanto at the Church of All Nations, Carlton. Please book by Friday 22 February.
- Melbourne, 27 February – Come to AIYA Vic’s LX every Wednesday at 6pm, RMIT Building 80.
- Melbourne, 12 March – Come along to the Australian Institute of International Affairs’ (Victoria) seminar entitled ‘Asleep at the Wheel? Australian Economic Engagement in Indonesia’. Hear guest speaker Andrew Parker, Partner and Asia Practice Leader at PwC share his insights on the obstacles to a stronger Australia-Indonesia relationship. Get your tickets here!
- Sydney, 7 March – Commemorating International Women’s Day 2019, AIYA NSW’s first event for 2019 is an all-female panel discussion themed “Women Who Lead: Stories of Success”. Hear the guest speakers share their personal journeys and describe what it means to be a female leader. The night will close with networking and canapes with the panellists. To learn more about the speakers and to register your attendance, click here.
Opportunities
- AIYA Tasmania is recruiting for positions of Secretary and Events Officer in 2019! Be part of an exciting process to build a strong Australia-Indonesia relationship. Applications close on the 28 February, click this link to apply! If you have any questions, feel free to contact AIYA Tas on Facebook or email.
- AIYA Queensland is accepting Expressions of Interest to join the 2019 committee for a variety of roles. If you’re a passionate, motivated young person seeking team and leadership experience, send your CV and a short introduction of yourself detailing why you want to join the committee (max. 200 words) to [email protected] by March 1 2019.
- AIYA Victoria is currently recruiting for 2019. If you are passionate about the Australia-Indonesia relationship, please consider applying. Positions available include Treasurer, Secretary, Media Officer, Education Officer, Sociocultural Officer, Professional Programs Officer and Education Facilitator/s (see Position Descriptions). Click here to apply! Applications due 5pm today!
- Volunteers required! FBBI 2019 is the Festival Bahasa dan Budaya Indonesia 2019 and aims to celebrate and share Indonesian language and culture with high-school students across Victoria. To register your interest to present at one of the workshops across Warrnambool, Wodonga, Melbourne City or Clayton, click here.
- Applications for internships at the Australian Embassy Indonesia are now open. The Embassy welcome applications from Australian and Indonesian postgraduate students to undertake an internship for an 8 week period from 1 July to 23 August 2019. Applications close on Sunday 17 March 2019. To learn more and apply, click here.
- English First (EF) Indonesia is looking for Australian teachers for teaching posts in Indonesia. EF Indonesia is also offering sponsorship for a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate valued at over $500 to successful candidates as well as full reimbursement for flights to/from Australia. If you would like to apply, please email [email protected] describing why you are applying for this role (100 words max) and attach your CV.
- Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture is inviting all foreign students to apply for 2019 Darmasiswa Scholarship, with a chance to study in the University of your choice among 71 Universities across Indonesia. For more info, head to their application page. Applications close 1 March 2019.
- Balai Bahasa dan Budaya Indonesia (BBBI) of NSW is seeking people from NSW interested in joining their 2019 executive committee or becoming advisors/supporters. Balai Bahasa help promote the value of learning about Indonesian language and culture across NSW. If you’re interested, contact the acting Chair of BBBI, Jane Ahlstrand via email: [email protected] or WhatsApp at: +61439248958. Please note that all positions are voluntary.
- Applications for the Hamer Scholarships are now open! They offer Victorians the opportunity of a 5-6 month intensive in-market language study and cultural immersion in Indonesia, China, Japan or Korea with scholarships up to the value of $15,000. See how you can take your career/business to the next level with a Hamer Scholarship in Indonesia! Further information and program guidelines can be found here. Applications close 17 March 2019.
- Are you looking to improve your business development skills set by working on real problems over the summer? Participate in the Building a Social Business online course, hosted by our director of partnerships and memberships, Sam Shlansky at econome. Take advantage of the discount to get $100 off the normal price of $199 by emailing your interest to [email protected].
- The 2018 – 2019 Short Film Competition for the 14th Indonesian Film Festival has begun. The competition is open to everyone and closes on the 3rd of March 2019. This year’s theme will explore “The Unknown”. Show off your creative skills for the chance to win a grand prize of AUD $750! For more information regarding competition rules and regulations, head to their website.
- Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project.
Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT — MADDIE RANDELL
Welcome back to Member Spotlight where we introduce you to the personalities behind AIYA. This week, we introduce you to AIYA NSW Socio-Cultural officer, Maddie!
AIYA Links: 15 February 2019
The Annual celebrates the activities and achievements of AIYA’s wonderful members and Chapters. Don’t forget to read the 2018 AIYA Annual here!
In the news
- Experts have pointed to Australians’ indifference to Indonesia and its rich cultural diversity. ACICIS program participant and Jakarta Post intern writes about the importance of live-in experiences to improve RI-Aussie ties.
- The Indonesian government will work together with its Australian counterpart to address employment and labor force issues, as demographics could pose challenges for its economy in the long run if not well managed.
- As Australian universities become more aware of the risks involved with heavily relying on Chinese students to boost revenues, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr will pitch Canberra as the destination of choice for Indonesian students.
- In Indonesia nearly 16 million adults are estimated to be living with type 2 diabetes. Experts estimate more than half of diabetes cases in Indonesia remain undiagnosed, especially among young people.
- Campaigners in Indonesia have blended rhino conservation with artisanal batik production to raise awareness about saving the critically endangered species.
Keen for more news updates on all things Australia-Indonesia? Subscribe to the Australia-Indonesia Centres’ Media Updates for a twice-weekly digest!
On the blog
- Member Spotlight – It’s time learn more about the lives of those behind AIYA. This week, meet AIYA NT President, Bintang!
Events
- Denpasar, 26 February – Join IALF’s Study in Australia Expo from 14.00 – 18.00 WITA. You will meet and have an insightful discussions with representatives from top universities in Australia, receive valuable information about living and studying in Australia from our alumni and learn about scholarship opportunities. This event is FREE and open to the public – register now!
- Jakarta, 16 February – Come along to AIYA Jakarta’s first sport event for 2019 – Futsal! It’s open to ALL from 7 – 9pm at Planet Futsal, Jakarta Selatan only 15k for AIYA members (25k for non-members). For registration and more information, contact Bowo +6289661225086. See you there!
- Jakarta, 23 February – Join IALF’s Study in Australia Expo from 14.00 – 18.00 WITA. You will meet and have insightful discussions with representatives from top universities in Australia, receive valuable information about living and studying in Australia from our alumni and learn about scholarship opportunities. This event is FREE and open to the public – register now!
- Jakarta, 21 February – The Foreign Policy Community in Indonesia (@FPCIndo) with the Australian Mission to ASEAN will host the FPCI Public Discussion, “Core Strength: The Strategic Value of the Indo-Pacific for Indonesia, ASEAN and Australia” from 2pm. Contact [email protected] for more information.
- Makassar, 22 February – Want to know how to receive Australia Awards Scholarships? AIYA East Indo (Makassar) and BaKTI are hosting “Sharing Session: Australia Awards Scholarships” where you can hear from two Australia Awards’ Alumni speak about their scholarship journey. Click here for more information!
- Melbourne, 20 February – AIYA Victoria’s Language Exchange – head to RMIT Building 80 every Wednesday at 6pm to practise your Indonesian and/or English language skills!
- Sydney, 7 March – Commemorating International Women’s Day 2019, AIYA NSW’s first event for 2019 is an all-female panel discussion themed “Women Who Lead: Stories of Success”. Hear the guest speakers share their personal journeys and describe what it means to be a female leader. The night will close with networking and canapes with the panellists. To learn more about the speakers and to register your attendance, click here.
Opportunities
- AIYA Queensland is accepting Expressions of Interest to join the 2019 committee for a variety of roles. With their AGM fast approaching, AIYA QLD are looking for passionate, motivated young people seeking team and leadership experience. Send your CV and a short introduction of yourself detailing why you want to join the committee (max. 200 words) to [email protected] by March 1 2019.
- AIYA Victoria is currently recruiting for 2019. If you are passionate about the Australia-Indonesia relationship, please consider applying. Positions available include Treasurer, Secretary, Media Officer, Education Officer, Sociocultural Officer, Professional Programs Officer and Education Facilitator/s (see Position Descriptions). Click here to apply! Applications due 5pm on 22 February.
- English First (EF) Indonesia is looking for Australian teachers for teaching posts in Indonesia. EF Indonesia is also offering sponsorship for a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate valued at over $500 to successful candidates as well as full reimbursement for flights to/from Australia. If you would like to apply please email [email protected] describing why you are applying for this role (100 words max) and attach your CV.
- Yunus & Youth (Y&Y) are excited to announce the opening of applications for the 2019 Yunus & Youth Fellowship Program for Social Entrepreneurs! The Y&Y Fellowship Program is a six-month online program that empowers young social entrepreneurs to develop their full potential. Watch their video here and apply now before February 18!
- Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture is inviting all foreign students to apply for 2019 Darmasiswa Scholarship, with a chance to study in the University of your choice among 71 Universities across Indonesia. For more info, head to their application page. Applications close 1 March 2019.
- Balai Bahasa dan Budaya Indonesia (BBBI) of NSW is seeking people from NSW interested in joining their 2019 executive committee or becoming advisors/supporters. Balai Bahasa help promote the value of learning about Indonesian language and culture across NSW. If you’re interested, contact the acting Chair of BBBI, Jane Ahlstrand via email: [email protected] or WhatsApp at: +61439248958. Please note that all positions are voluntary.
- Applications for the Hamer Scholarships are now open! They offer Victorians the opportunity for 5-6 months of intensive in-market language study and cultural immersion in Indonesia, China, Japan or Korea with scholarships up to the value of $15,000. See how you can take your career/business to the next level with a Hamer Scholarship in Indonesia! Further information and program guidelines can be found here. Applications close 17 March 2019.
- Are you looking to improve your business development skills set by working on real problems over the summer? Participate in the Building a Social Business online course, hosted by our director of partnerships and memberships, Sam Shlansky, at econome. Take advantage of the discount to get $100 off the normal price of $199 by emailing your interest to [email protected].
- The 2018 – 2019 Short Film Competition for the 14th Indonesian Film Festival has begun. The competition is open to everyone and closes on the 3rd of March 2019. This year’s theme will explore “The Unknown”. Show off your creative skills for the chance to win a grand prize of AUD $750! For more information regarding competition rules and regulations, head to their website.
- Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project.
Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT — BINTANG DALY
Welcome back to Member Spotlight where we introduce you to the personalities behind AIYA. This week, we introduce you to AIYA NT President, Bintang!
AIYA Annual 2018 is here!
Dear AIYA Members and Supporters,
The AIYA Annual 2018 is a showcase of what YOU, our fabulous chapters and members, have been up to this past year! In 2018, we DOUBLED the number of AIYA events held across Australia and Indonesia chapters, reaffirming AIYA’s mission to connect, inform and inspire young people engaged in the bilateral relationship.
click on the image above or this link here for high res report
Now in its third year of publication, the AIYA Annual 2018 includes messages of support from Australia’s new Ambassador to Indonesia, Gary Quinlan, and Indonesia’s Ambassador to Australia, Kristiarto S. Legowo. It features updates from our twelve amazing chapters, who ran everything from film and cooking nights to careers events and scholarship information sessions. There’s also an update from the 4th annual NAILA initiative and a wrap up of AIYA’s involvement in this year’s AIBC Conference held on the Gold Coast!
Once again, this year’s AIYA Annual includes contributions from individual members. From a large number of submissions, we have selected three of the best pieces for your reading pleasure – a personal account of Dan Trevanion’s enriching experience on the Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program (AIYEP), Rachmania Wardhani’s interview with the Vice President of BBBIQ – an organisation dedicated to reinvigorating Indonesian language learning in Queensland and Ilfi Reka Alfi Yarti Syabeh’s account of being a fresh graduate in Indonesia’s increasingly competitive labour market. We hope you enjoy their work.
We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our members and partners for their ongoing support of AIYA over the years. If you like what we do, please share this publication and spread the word about AIYA membership! We have a lot in store for 2019 and we cannot wait to share our new activities and initiatives with you.
The AIYA Annual celebrates everything AIYA has achieved in the past year, and we encourage you to take a look (you never know – you might see your face!).
Happy reading!
Jayne Fendyk Zahrina Aditya
Chief Editor Assistant Editor
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT — DAN TREVANION
Welcome back to Member Spotlight where we introduce you to the personalities behind AIYA. This week, we introduce you to AIYA Membership Officer, Dan Trevanion!
AIYA Links: 1 February 2019
Stay tuned for our release of AIYA Annual 2018 next week, where we celebrate highlights and activities in the past year. In the meantime, check out our 2017 Annual if you haven’t done so already!
In the news
- As the largest economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia tipped by many to be one of the beneficiaries of the ongoing U.S.-China trade war that has threatened global growth. The industry minister Airlangga Hartarto plans to bring textile and footwear companies from China to the country.
- Low uptake amongst Indonesia’s informal sector is compromising the country’s new national health insurance scheme, introduced in 2014 by the health wing of the then newly formed social security agency, the BPJS. A study by the AIC shows that more incentive is needed for the vulnerable middle of the nation’s health insurance.
- Considering the rise of anti-LGBT sentiment and violence against these groups, what does a flag ceremony at the only Islamic boarding school for waria say about nationalistic and patriotic feelings of sexual minorities in Indonesia? Diego Rodriguez shares his story of how the flag ceremony reinstates that the non-normative citizens need to find space to fight for their rights.
- Can golput save Indonesian democracy? Abdil Mughis Mudhoffir and Rafiqa Qurrata A’yun argue that the growing voters with an intention not to cast a vote could strengthen democracy than dismissing them as apathetic.
On the blog
- Member Spotlight – It’s time learn more about the lives of those behind AIYA. This week we meet one of our Blog Editors, Wella Andany!
Events
- Bandung, 1 February – Join AIYA Jawa Barat in welcoming new members and new ACICIS students TONIGHT at Cafe Oz! Find out what the chapter plans to do for the semester, meet new friends, and enjoy delicious food at this first event of 2019!
- Melbourne, 6 February – AIYA Victoria’s Language Exchange is back for 2019! Head to RMIT Building 80 every Wednesday at 6pm to practise your Indonesian and/or English language skills!
- Sydney, 10 February – ASYIK Casula Indonesian Cultural Day will take place from 10:30am – 3pm at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre. It includes activities for all ages like art workshops, puppet-making activities and dance workshops led by Suara Indonesia Dance. There will also be performances and conversations with the artists involved in the ‘looking here, looking north’ exhibition. Follow the FB event for more details.
Opportunities
- Are you highly motivated and interested in developing the Australia-Indonesia relationship through language, culture, and shared experiences? The AIYA Jawa Barat Chapter wants YOU! Apply to become part of the leadership team (based in Bandung) now at the link here. Application deadline: 5 February.
- AIYA South Australia is accepting Expressions of Interest to join the 2019 committee. They’re looking for motivated, passionate young people seeking team and leadership experience. Send 50-100 words expressing your interest to Hannah at [email protected] before 10 February 2019. Positions available include secretary, treasurer, events officer, communications officer and general member/s.
- AIYA Victoria is currently recruiting for 2019. If you are passionate about the Australia-Indonesia relationship, please consider applying. Positions available include Treasurer, Secretary, Media Officer, Education Officer, Sociocultural Officer, Professional Programs Officer and Education Facilitator/s (see Position Descriptions). Click here to apply! Applications due 5pm on 22 February.
- For 60 years globally and 20 years in Australia, the Asia Society has been building bridges of understanding between Asia, Australia and the US across business, policy, education and the arts. They’re currently seeking a new full-time Associate Director – Development (Melbourne) as well as a Program Officer (Melbourne) for their new Melbourne office. Head to their website to find out more information and apply!
- Asialink is looking for the Director of Diplomacy to be based in Melbourne. This position plays a key role in driving Asialink’s position as Australia’s leading centre for Australia-Asia engagement in Australia and internationally. Read more about the role description here and apply before 10 February!
- Are you currently learning Bahasa Indonesia? Want to visit Indonesia to learn more about the language and culture? Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture is inviting all foreign students to apply for 2019 Darmasiswa Scholarship, with a chance to study in the University of your choice among 71 Universities across Indonesia. For more info, head to their application page. Applications close 1 March 2019.
- Balai Bahasa dan Budaya Indonesia (BBBI) of NSW is seeking people from NSW interested in joining their 2019 executive committee or becoming advisors/supporters. Balai Bahasa help promote the value of learning about Indonesian language and culture across NSW. If you’re interested, contact the acting Chair of BBBI, Jane Ahlstrand via email: [email protected] or WhatsApp at: +61439248958. Please note that all positions are voluntary.
- A reminder that applications for the Hamer Scholarships are opening soon, from 11 February to 17 March 2019. They offer Victorians the opportunity for 5-6 months of intensive in-market language study and cultural immersion in Indonesia, China, Japan or Korea with scholarships up to the value of $15,000. Further information and program guidelines can be found here. See how you can take your career/business to the next level with a Hamer Scholarship in Indonesia!
- Are you looking to improve your business development skills set by working on real problems over the summer? Participate in the Building a Social Business online course, hosted by our director of partnerships and memberships, Sam Shlansky, at econome. Take advantage of the discount to get $100 off the normal price of $199 by emailing your interest to [email protected].
- The 2018 – 2019 Short Film Competition for the 14th Indonesian Film Festival has begun. The competition is open to everyone and closes on the 3rd of March 2019. This year’s theme will explore “The Unknown”. Show off your creative skills for the chance to win a grand prize of AUD $750! For more information regarding competition rules and regulations, head to their website.
- Applications are now open for Indonesian schools to join the 2019 Australia-Indonesia BRIDGE School Partnerships Program! Apply here, applications close 3 February.
- Learning a language? Get Indonesian & English language help with UniBRIDGE Project.
Like what we do? Want to join or support your local chapter to contribute to our exciting activities? Sign up as an AIYA member today!