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AIYA Links: 15 March 2019

Photo: ‘The Seen and Unseen’ is one of the films to be featured at FSAI 2019.

Running from 14 – 31 March in Indonesia, Festival Sinema Australia Indonesia (FSAI) once again showcases the best films of Australia and Indonesia. Event details below.

Selamat menikmati Festival Sinema Australia Indonesia (FSAI) 2019!

Read more here

In the news

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

Events

  • Jakarta, Mataram, Makassar, Bandung & Surabaya, 14 – 31 March – Festival Sinema Australia Indonesia (#FSAI2019) is coming. Various genres of Australian and Indonesian feature films will be screened. And for the first time, FSAI 2019 presents a selection of short films featured at Flickerfest, Australia’s leading competitive short film festival. Tickets are gratis! Head to the event page to purchase yours.
  • Sydney, Canberra & Melbourne, 26, 27, 28 March – The Lowy Institute is hosting, ‘Indonesia’s elections: democracy on trial’ in Sydney, Canberra & Melbourne. Join eminent Indonesian political expert Professor Dewi Fortuna Anwar, and Director of Lowy Institute’s Southeast Asia Project Ben Bland, for a discussion on the elections, the state of democracy in Indonesia, and the implications for Indonesia’s international relations. Click on the relevant city for event details and register your interest!
  • Adelaide, 24 March – AIYA SA will go hiking at Brownhill Creek from 10am. Follow their FB page for more details.
  • Adelaide, 26 March – Join AIYA SA for LX at Bedford Park from 5:30pm!
  • 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.
  • Canberra, March 22 –  Come along to Nusa Tenggara Association’s (NTA) 2019 “FUN-D” RAISING DINNER” at 6:30 pm to help raise funds to tackle poverty and malnutrition in the poor farming communities of eastern Indonesia. Guest speaker is Prof Budy P. Resosudarmo. The dinner will also feature a silent auction, raffle and entertainment. Tickets: $60 each, tables of 10 are very welcome! Purchase your ticket!
  • 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.
  • Darwin, 20 March – AIBC NT and the Consul General are hosting a Business Breakfast Meeting to discuss an update on the opportunities now Australia and Indonesia have formally signed the IA-CEPA Agreement, together with an update on the Arafura Games. Registration is essential. Please register by 18 March.
  • Jakarta, TODAY – Language Exchange is on again from 7pm at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. See you there!
  • Kupang, 16 March – AIYA East Indo-Kupang is going to hold an English Language Training Assistance (ELTA) Program Sharing Session at Aussie Banget Corner, Nusa Cendana University from 11am onwards.
  • Melbourne, 13 March – Come to AIYA Vic’s LX every Wednesday at 6pm, RMIT Building 80.
  • Perth, 18 March – Join AIYA WA at their ‘Politics, Power and Predictions: The Road to the Indonesian Presidential Election’ event this Monday. Tickets are free but please register as seats are limited!
  • Sydney, 21 March – Back by popular demand, AIYA NSW and PPIA, University of Sydney is hosting Malam Karier 2019 (Indonesian Careers Night 2019), Future Thinking, Now at the University of Sydney from 6-9pm. Get your tickets here!
  • Sydney, 23 March – Attend ‘SUPERMENTOR SYDNEY: PREPARE YOURSELF FOR AN EXPONENTIAL FUTURE’ and listen to inspiring talks from Bima Arya – Mayor of Bogor; Peter F. Gontha – Ambassador of Indonesia to Poland (2014 – 2019) and other esteemed guests. The event is FREE – Register now (RSVP Required)!
  • Sydney, 23 March – Spectacular Eastern Indonesia highlights the vibrant dance and rich musical traditions from the Eastern Region of Indonesia including the well-loved dance, the poco poco. It also features West Papua dancers who are performing for the first time in Australia. As well as award-winning musician, Yopi Latul. Tickets are extremely limited so reserve yours today via Eventbrite.
  • Yogyakarta, 17 March – Feel like going for a jog? Join AIYA Yogya from 6.30AM @ Wisdom Park, UGM for some early morning exercise.
  • Yogyakarta, 19 March – AIYA Yogya will host RRI Pro 2 Futsal from 5 – 7pm every Tuesday. It is 15k for members and 20k for non-members. Check out the video and see how fun was the last futsal night was! #YukOlahraga!
  • Yogyakarta, 20 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.
  • Monash University (Caufield) is seeking a PAIR Program Officer. PAIR is the Australia-Indonesia Centre’s DFAT-funded collaborative research program. For more information on the position and how to apply, click here. Applications close 25 March 2019.
  • 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. The need volunteers to present at the four workshops being held from March – May across Warrnambool, Wodonga, Melbourne City or Clayton. To register your interest, 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.
  • Nominations for the 2019 Australia Indonesia Awards are open until 31 March 2019. Name a hardworking person you know who is committed to building Australia Indonesia relations. Categories this year are, women’s sport, technology/training and arts & entertainment. Nominate someone 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.
  • 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 a UniSyd undergraduate wanting to boost your resume and travel overseas? Apply now to the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre and receive a $3000 travel grant to spend two weeks on a field school in Indonesia, conducting research on issues related to disability and inclusion. Applications open until 18 March – apply now!  
  • Australia Awards Scholarships for Master’s and PhD degrees have officially opened and close on 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 –  +62 81289804911, Phone – +62 21 5277648 or email. For further information, please click 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. One of the major prizes includes a trip to the Bandung Institute of Technology. Follow the competition here.
  • Call for Volunteers at 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 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 Provincial Government of East Kalimantan has collaborated with Australia Awards in Indonesia, Mulawarman University, and the University of Adelaide to provide a Split-Site Master’s Scholarship Program for high school and vocational school English teachers in East Kalimantan, for the academic year of 2019-2021. For more information on the scholarship’s procedures, requirements, and timeline, click here. Applications close 17 May 2019.
  • 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.
  • 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 Blog

Learning about social and cultural nuance as an Australian intern at Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI)



Interning at Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) reminded me of family dinners at my Italian-Australian grandparents’ house in the late 90s: Cigarettes and instant coffee in the kitchen. Trophies, awards and decorative tissue box in the meeting rooms. And, everybody wanted to feed me. It was truly a dream-come-true for a wannabe foreign correspondence journalist like myself.

But, RRI is far more than just an example of sensational Indonesian hospitality. They’ve made a weighty contribution to Indonesian’s national identity. In many ways, they have mirrored the rapid social progression of their environment. However, the organisation’s legacy is still a huge part of their identity. It defines the spirit with which they approach each passing challenge. The placement taught me about Indonesian history, challenged my beliefs and changed the way I will work cross-culturally forever.

The legacy of building a nation

RRI’s legacy has been shaped and continues to be shaped, by Indonesia’s eventful modern history. Stained by a struggle for independence from colonialism, a period of authoritarian leadership and rapid reformation in recent years.

While in Indonesia, I learnt that half a millennia ago there was no such thing as Indonesia. Instead, there were 17 thousand islands populated by countless cultural and ethnic groups. I didn’t realise how recently Indonesia declared itself a sovereign nation.

Unifying such a diverse population was no small task. A perceived sense of national identity, despite cultural differences, was an important political tool to solidify the infant nation’s unity. Nobody recorded the original declaration of independence. But, 25 days later Sukarno re-stated it for RRI listeners. This was their first broadcast and the recording is the main feature in their lobby.  

These days, privately owned media is the norm. However, this was only given the chance to flourish free from bureaucratic choke-hold in the late 90s. For the first two decades after independence, the state controlled the radio frequencies across the archipelago. RRI and Television Republik Indonesia (TVRI) were the sole broadcasters. Media was seen by the government as a tool to build a nation. 

A fight for press freedom

Kabul Budiono has worked for in state-funded broadcasting since the late seventies. he has Performed numerous roles; from an announcer, to director of RRI.

I walked nervously into TVRI’s head office; it was far more modern than RRI’s. Mr Budiono wore thick-framed glasses, brightly coloured batik and a jovial grin throughout our entire meeting. It was easy to forget I was sitting across from the elected member of TVRI.

Impartiality has always been central to RRI’s official mandate. When Budiono began working for RRI In the late seventies, this was not put into practice.

One election year, the city was bursting at the seams with people and politics. Budiono was a young journalist working in Jakarta. He was forbidden from reporting criticisms of President Suharto and his political party Golkar.

While Suharto won the election, Golkar lost sorely in Papua. Budiono wanted to know why. He contacted academics and pieced together a story. That day, the 1pm state-funded broadcaster criticised a president for the first time in its 25-year history. The Ministry of Information was not impressed. But, “I am still here,” he told me with a satisfied smirk.

Perhaps this could have served as a canary in Suharto’s authoritarian gold-mine. After his regime fell during the Asian Financial Crisis of the late 90s, RRI made the official shift from state to public status. Officially, they now represented the citizens of Indonesia, not merely the President.

Impartial but not at every cost

RRI, as with the rest of the nation, has changed a lot since the 1998 reformation. They now operate in a starkly different political climate.

Since 2002, their independence has been protected by the KPI (Indonesian Broadcasting Commission). According to political scientist Douglas Ramage, “Indonesia has one of the freest media’s in all of South East Asia”.

Several of my colleagues at RRI told me they are free to say whatever they want.

They have a station dedicated to criticising the government (Pro3) and strive to present multiple sides of every argument.

Independence is important. But, so is their national image. Reporters I spoke to see foreign broadcast as an opportunity to showcase Indonesia as more than just the land of tsunamis, earthquakes and the Bali bombings.

On top of that, national security also impacts editorial decisions. Budiono said TVRI and RRI will always be on the same side as the Republic of Indonesia in these matters. “We’re not like the BBC in that way,” he said referencing the British broadcasters stance against the Thatcher government during the Iraq war. 

When I asked Budiono about RRI’s coverage of the pro-independence movement in West Papua he said, “we are free to have an open dialogue. But, if there is a weaponised movement trying to become free from Indonesia, we have to think about the sake of the nation.”

My reflections

RRI and TVRI are no longer governed by the state. However, they possess an entrenched state culture. This seemed fitting considering their crucial role in developing the national psyche. 

However, I’ve been taught to view Journalism as a figure operating primarily to hold those in power accountable; like a final puzzle-piece essential to a picture of a healthy democracy. The memory of my first-year lecturer howling “the fourth estate” in her thick Australian accent is etched in my memory. As a result, I found some of my experiences at RRI challenging. 

Most of the reporting I did was inside air-conditioned hotels and government buildings. I recognise the importance of authoritative sources. But, it seemed strange to spend a morning drinking tea and talking achievements with diplomats, government officials and academics.

But, of course, I didn’t come to Indonesia to have every one of my standing beliefs about Journalism affirmed. I don’t agree with the way RRI does every little thing. But, am I supposed to? Unlike many of the reporters at RRI, I’ve never lived through a period of civil unrest in my country.

Every day journalists at RRI walk a fine line between considering national interest and elevating individuals in their society. It is complex and messy and truly impressive. It requires an attention to social, historical and cultural nuance probably impossible for a foreign journalist.

Working at RRI was an invaluable experience that taught me the impact history and culture has on media. It is an experience I will take with me throughout the rest of my studies and beyond.

Lisa Grace Favazzo is a student living in Melbourne, Australia. This summer she took part in a journalism professional placement program run by the Australian Consortium for In-country Indonesian Studies (ACICIS). Her trip highlights include speaking (terrible) Bahasa Indonesia, eating onde-onde and interning with the countries public radio broadcaster; RRI.

AIYA Links

AIYA Links: 8 March 2019

Photo: The Australian

It’s signed! Australia and Indonesia signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) on 4 March 2019. This agreement is expected to launch a new chapter in economic relations between Australia and Indonesia. See the full text of the agreement below.

Read more here

In the news

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

  • Check out this article discussing the details of the recent Trade Agreement between Australia and Indonesia (IA-CEPA) here!
  • Member Spotlight – It’s time learn more about the lives of those behind AIYA. This week, meet AIYA Yogyakarta President, Dhona!
  • Don’t forget to read the 2018 AIYA Annual here!

Events

  • Adelaide, 12 March – Join AIYA SA for LX at Victoria Square from 5:30pm!
  • Adelaide, 24 March – AIYA SA will go hiking at Brownhill Creek from 10am. Follow their FB page for more details.
  • 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, 9 March – Join AIYA East Indonesia (NTT) for LX at AussieBanget Corner – Nusa Cendana University from 11am onwards. This week’s theme is culture!
  • Makassar, 8 March – AIYA East Indonesia will host a ‘Belajar Bareng IELTS’ (Group IELTS study session) from 7pm at Kopi Api Pasar Seger. Come and join. Contact details can be found on the AIYA East Indo Instagram.
  • Melbourne, 13 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.
  • Yogyakarta, 10 March – Feel like going for a jog? Join AIYA Yogya from 6.30AM @ GSP UGM Sayap Barat for some early morning exercise.
  • Yogyakarta, 12 March – AIYA Yogya will host RRI Pro 2 Futsal from 5 – 7pm every Tuesday. It is 15k for members and 20k for non-members. Check out the video and see how fun was the last futsal night was! #YukOlahraga!

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.
  • 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. The need volunteers to present at the four workshops being held from March – May across Warrnambool, Wodonga, Melbourne City or Clayton. To register your interest, 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.
  • Nominations for the 2019 Australia Indonesia Awards are open until 31 March 2019. Name a hardworking person you know who is committed to building Australia Indonesia relations. Categories this year are, women’s sport, technology/training and arts & entertainment. Nominate someone 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.
  • 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 a UniSyd undergraduate wanting to boost your resume and travel overseas? Apply now to the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre and receive a $3000 travel grant to spend two weeks on a field school in Indonesia, conducting research on issues related to disability and inclusion. Applications open until 18 March – apply now!  
  • 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.
  • 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. One of the major prizes includes a trip to the Bandung Institute of Technology. Follow the competition here.
  • Call for Volunteers at 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 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 Provincial Government of East Kalimantan has collaborated with Australia Awards in Indonesia, Mulawarman University, and the University of Adelaide to provide a Split-Site Master’s Scholarship Program for high school and vocational school English teachers in East Kalimantan, for the academic year of 2019-2021. For more information on the scholarship’s procedures, requirements, and timeline, click here. Applications close 17 May 2019.
  • 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.
  • 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 Blog

It’s more than a free trade agreement. But what exactly have Australia and Indonesia signed?

This article was originally posted by The Conversation.

Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmingham, and Indonesian counterpart Enggartiasto Lukita shake hands after signing the economic partnership agreement in Jakarta on March 4

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

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.

Find out more here

In the news

On the blog

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

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.

Read more here

In the news

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!

 

AIYA Links

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!

Read more

In the news

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!

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