Articles Tagged with: Australia
Home / Blog Archives
AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 03 March 2026

Since 1976, Campbell Macknight’s germinal book, The Voyage to Marege’: Macassan Trepangers in Northern Australia, has informed important research into the historical voyages of Indonesian boat fleets from Makassar in Sulawesi to harvest trepang (sea cucumber) from the shallow coastal waters of Arnhem Land in Australia’s Northern Territory during its commercial height between 1750 and 1907 CE. Today, the Indonesians who worked this industry are commonly remembered as Makassans due to their main port city of origin. [Melbourne Asia Review]

In The News:

  • Dunia Hari Ini: Wakil Presiden Keenam Indonesia Try Sutrisno Meninggal Dunia – Mantan wakil presiden dan pensiunan jenderal Angkatan Darat Try Sutrisno meninggal dunia pada usia 90 tahun, menurut konfirmasi dari Sekretariat Wakil Presiden. Try wafat di Rumah Sakit Angkatan Darat Gatot Soebroto (RSPAD) Jakarta pada pukul 06.58 waktu setempat, hari senin (02/03). [ABC News]
  • Australians stranded due to airspace closures after US-Israel strikes on Iran – Thousands of Australians have been stranded overseas, with major international transit hubs in the Middle East closed. The Australian Travel Industry Association says travellers who panic and cancel flights risk losing their money. [ABC News]
  • AHDAA Raih “Halal Certification & Export Enabler Award 2026”, Perkuat Jembatan Perdagangan Halal Indonesia–Australia – Lembaga sertifikasi halal asal Australia, Australian Halal Development & Accreditation (AHDAA), meraih penghargaan internasional bergengsi “Halal Certification & Export Enabler Award 2026” dalam ajang Indonesia Top Achievements of the Year (ITAY) 2026 yang diselenggarakan di Grand Studio Metro TV. [Metro TV]
  • RI Banjir Impor Perhiasan Emas Australia, Meroket 634% di Januari 2026 – Deputi Bidang Statistik Distribusi dan Jasa Badan Pusat Statistik BPS, Ateng Hartono, mengungkapkan impor nonmigas dari Australia tercatat sebesar US$ 507,59 juta. Dari catatan BPS, nilai tersebut didominasi logam mulia dan perhiasan atau permata dengan share 47,54%. [CNBC Indonesia]
  • Australia, Indonesia sign security pact, strengthen defense collaboration – Australian and Indonesian leaders signed an agreement in February 2026 that solidifies and advances previous security accords between the neighboring nations. [Indo-Pacific Defense Forum]
  • Thousands of Australian Tourists Cancel Bali Trips Due to Severe Flooding –  The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) reported on Saturday (28/2/2026) that over a thousand Australian tourists have canceled their visits to Bali following a week of extreme weather and devastating floods. The flooding, which hit tourism hubs like Kuta and Legian in Badung Regency particularly hard, has sparked international concern. [Indonesia National Police]
  • Kalah Dramatis dari Australia, Timnas Futsal Putri Indonesia Terhenti di Semifinal Piala AFF 2026 – Timnas futsal putri Indonesia gagal melangkah ke babak final Piala AFF Futsal 2026 setelah takluk 2-3 dari Australia pada laga semifinal di Terminal 21 Korat, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, Sabtu (28/2/2026). [Kompas TV]
  • Atdikbud Canberra Tawarkan Peluang Kolaborasi Australia dengan Unila – Universitas Lampung (Unila) menggelar webinar bertajuk “Peluang Kolaborasi Indonesia dan Australia” sebagai langkah strategis dalam memperkuat kerja sama perguruan tinggi. Kegiatan yang diinisiasi Bidang Kerja Sama Unila ini berlangsung pada Rabu, 15 Oktober 2025, secara daring melalui platform zoom meeting. [Saibumi.com]
  • Balanca na Balanydja, Merayakan Jalur Perdagangan Teripang Indonesia-Australia – Jalur perdagangan teripang yang menghubungkan pelaut Makassar atau Indonesia Timur dengan masyarakat Aborigin di Australia Utara dihidupkan kembali melalui karya seni pertunjukan lintas budaya Balanca na Balanydja (Belanja dan Bertukar). Pertunjukan ini menyatukan seniman Indonesia Abdi Karya dari Makassar dan Nebbie Burrarwanga, seorang seniman Yolngu dari Arnhem Land, Australia Utara. [RRI]

In the Blog:

  • Our recent AAS seminar with AIYA Sulsel and Unhas was a massive success! with all 170 seats snatched up in just three days! Attendees gained firsthand application tips from Australian Consul-General Todd Dias and two recent University of Melbourne alumni. If you missed the event, remember that this prestigious and inclusive scholarship remains open for applications until 30 April 2026. Check out our latest blog post for the full recap and a boost of inspiration for your own study journey!
  • In a recent AIYA blog post, we explore how Indonesian passport holders with an active Australian visa can visit South Korea without applying for a traditional tourist visa through the B2 Transit Visa program. Dinda Ichsani, our Blog Editor, shares her firsthand journey and guides readers through eligibility requirements, route planning tips, airport procedures, and practical travel preparation as a Work and Holiday Visa (WHV) holder. Click here to read the full article!
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.

Events:

  • Australia Awards in Indonesia will host a virtual information session for the Australia Awards Short Course on ‘Promoting Leadership for Transparency and Accountability in the Public Sectors’ on 5 March 2026 @ 3.00pm WIB to guide you through the application process, provide valuable insights, and address queries. Secure your spot by registering for the Information Session no later than 3 March 2026 @ 12.00pm WIB through this link.
  • Om Tom Learning Indonesian: An inspiring and educational comedy show about how one man (Om Tom) learnt Indonesian by accident through the different episodes of his life. Delivered bilingually, Learning Indonesian with Om Tom is not only a comedy show but an effort to build bridges between Indonesian and English-speaking communities. Save the dates Adelaide: Tue, 03 Mar – Wed, 04 Mar; Melbourne show: Fri, 27 – Sun, 29 March. For AIYA members, get 20% discount by simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Om Tom Learning Indonesian. Quickly register yourself in Om Tom upcoming shows! Tickets are selling fast!
  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • Language Exchange is back! AIYA NSW hosts weekly LX sessions on Thursdays, alternating between in-person at Darling Square or online. Follow our Instagram @aiya_nsw for weekly updates and topics!

Tune In:

  • Bagi seorang Candra Darusman, bukan saja soal ‘ngamen’ yang ada di benaknya – Listen here to know more [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]
  • On January 2nd, 2026, Indonesia entered what officials are calling a “new era” of criminal justice. The country implemented a completely new Criminal code – KUHP – and a new Criminal Procedure Code—known as KUHAP—that changes what counts as a crime and how crimes are identified, investigated and punished. – Tune here to learn more. [Talking Indonesia]
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]

Opportunities:

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • The University of Melbourne is looking for Senior Associate, Advisory & Insights to join their wonderful Asialink Business, Global, Culture & Engagement department! If you have experience in strategy or commercial consulting, have a strong quantitative analysis skills and interest in Asian business, political, and cultural issues, you may want to look into the further details here! Applications close: ​15 March 2026​ 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.
  • Australia Awards – Are you a future leader from Indonesia aspiring to pursue a Masters or PhD at an Australian university? Australia Awards is now accepting application! Apply and experience a world-class education in Australia. Applications close on 30 April 2026. Visit the website for more information!
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.

AIYA Blog

Separated by Seas, United by Coconut: The Story behind Lamington and Klepon

At first glance, lamington and klepon could easily be mistaken for desserts from the same culinary tradition. Both are small, both are sweet, and both are generously coated in white grated coconut. Yet one is a beloved Australian cake, while the other is a traditional Indonesian kue found in markets and homes across the archipelago. Their visual similarity is striking, especially considering the vast geographical and cultural distance between the two countries. This resemblance offers more than a curious food comparison. It opens a small but meaningful window into how shared ingredients and environments can shape food cultures in parallel, quietly reflecting the broader connections between Australia and Indonesia.

Lamington is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most iconic cakes. Originating in Queensland, it consists of squares of sponge cake dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. Some variations include a layer of jam or cream, but the defining feature remains its coconut-coated exterior. In this dessert, coconut is not the primary flavor but a practical and textural finish. It prevents the chocolate coating from becoming too sticky, adds a pleasant bite, and gives the cake its distinctive appearance. Lamington represents how European-style baking traditions adapted to local conditions, incorporating ingredients that were abundant in Australia’s tropical and subtropical regions.

Klepon, by contrast, belongs to Indonesia’s long-standing kue tradition. It is formed from glutinous rice dough, filled with liquid palm sugar, boiled, and then rolled in freshly grated coconut. When eaten, the chewy exterior gives way to a burst of melted sweetness inside. Here, coconut is essential rather than decorative. It balances the sweetness of the filling, adds texture, and prevents the sticky surface from clumping. Coconut is deeply embedded in Indonesian cooking, making klepon a natural expression of local ingredients and culinary habits.

The resemblance between lamington and klepon is not the result of direct influence, but of practical culinary logic. Coconut serves similar purposes in both desserts: it reduces stickiness, improves texture, helps retain moisture, and makes the sweets easier to handle. Both are also bite-sized treats often served at gatherings, celebrations, or as everyday snacks. They evoke familiarity and nostalgia, commonly found in bakeries, markets, and home kitchens. Despite their different ingredients, their shared coconut coating gives them an almost twin-like appearance.

Geography and history help explain this convergence. Australia’s lamington developed within colonial kitchens shaped by European baking techniques, while klepon emerged from indigenous rice-based culinary traditions in Southeast Asia. Over time, trade routes and colonial networks facilitated the movement of ingredients such as sugar and coconut across regions. However, each culture incorporated these ingredients according to its own culinary framework. The result is two distinct desserts that reflect different histories yet respond to similar environmental conditions and available resources.

In a broader sense, the visual similarity between lamington and klepon serves as a gentle reminder of the shared environmental and cultural threads linking Australia and Indonesia. While their food traditions remain distinct, common ingredients like coconut reveal how geography can shape culinary creativity in comparable ways. Through these two desserts, we see how separate kitchens, guided by different histories, can arrive at surprisingly similar expressions of sweetness. 

Article written by Benetta Swasti

Translated by Ezy Wiranda

AIYA Blog

Dipisahkan Lautan, Disatukan Kelapa: Kisah di Balik Lamington dan Klepon


Sekilas, lamington dan klepon mudah disangka sebagai hidangan penutup dari tradisi kuliner yang sama. Keduanya berukuran kecil, manis, dan dilapisi dengan kelapa parut yang melimpah. Namun, yang satu adalah kue khas Australia yang sangat digemari, sementara yang lainnya adalah kue tradisional Indonesia yang dapat ditemukan di pasar dan di rumah-rumah di seluruh kepulauan. Kemiripan visual keduanya sangat mencolok, terutama jika mempertimbangkan jarak geografis dan perbedaan budaya yang begitu luas antara kedua negara. Kemiripan ini tidak hanya menawarkan sekadar perbandingan makanan yang
menarik. Hal ini membuka jendela kecil, tetapi bermakna tentang bagaimana bahan dan lingkungan yang serupa dapat membentuk budaya kuliner yang mirip, secara diam-diam mencerminkan hubungan yang lebih luas antara Australia dan Indonesia.

Lamington secara luas dianggap sebagai salah satu kue khas Australia. Berasal dari Queensland, kue ini terdiri dari potongan kue bolu yang dicelupkan ke dalam lapisan cokelat dan digulingkan dalam kelapa parut kering. Beberapa variasi menambahkan lapisan selai atau krim, tetapi ciri khasnya tetaplah lapisan kelapa di bagian luarnya. Dalam hidangan penutup ini, kelapa bukanlah rasa utama, melainkan sentuhan praktis dan tekstural. Kelapa mencegah lapisan cokelat menjadi terlalu lengket, menambahkan tekstur renyah saat digigit, serta memberikan tampilan yang khas pada kue. Lamington menunjukkan bagaimana tradisi pembuatan kue ala Eropa beradaptasi dengan kondisi lokal dengan memanfaatkan bahan-
bahan yang melimpah di wilayah tropis dan subtropis Australia.

Sebaliknya, klepon merupakan bagian dari tradisi kue Indonesia yang sudah lama ada. Kue ini dibuat dari adonan tepung beras ketan yang diisi dengan gula merah cair, direbus, lalu digulingkan dalam kelapa parut segar. Saat dimakan, bagian luarnya yang kenyal akan pecah dan mengeluarkan lelehan manis di dalamnya. Dalam klepon, kelapa merupakan elemen penting, bukan sekadar hiasan. Kelapa menyeimbangkan rasa manis isian, menambah tekstur, serta mencegah permukaan yang lengket saling menempel. Kelapa sangat melekat dalam masakan Indonesia, menjadikan klepon sebagai ekspresi alami dari bahan-bahan lokal dan kebiasaan kuliner setempat.

Kemiripan antara lamington dan klepon bukanlah hasil pengaruh langsung, melainkan logika kuliner yang praktis. Kelapa memiliki fungsi serupa pada kedua hidangan ini: mengurangi kelengketan, memperbaiki tekstur, membantu mempertahankan kelembapan, dan memudahkan saat disajikan atau dipegang. Keduanya juga merupakan kudapan yang sering disajikan di pertemuan, perayaan, atau sebagai kudapan sehari-hari. Keduanya membangkitkan rasa akrab dan nostalgia, umumnya dapat ditemukan di toko roti, pasar, maupun dapur rumah. Terlepas dari bahan-bahannya yang berbeda, lapisan kelapa yang sama
membuat keduanya tampak hampir seperti kembar. Faktor geografis dan sejarah membantu menjelaskan kesamaan yang tidak disengaja ini. Lamington berkembang di dapur kolonial Australia yang dipengaruhi teknik pembuatan kue Eropa, sementara klepon lahir dari tradisi kuliner berbasis beras di Asia Tenggara.

Seiring waktu, jalur perdagangan dan jaringan kolonial memfasilitasi pergerakan bahan-bahan seperti gula dan kelapa antarwilayah. Namun, setiap budaya mengolah bahan tersebut sesuai dengan kerangka kuliner masing-masing. Hasilnya adalah dua hidangan penutup yang berbeda, mencerminkan sejarah yang berlainan, tetapi sama-sama merespons kondisi lingkungan dan ketersediaan bahan yang serupa.

Dalam makna yang lebih luas, kemiripan visual antara lamington dan klepon berfungsi sebagai pengingat akan benang merah lingkungan dan budaya yang menghubungkan Australia dan Indonesia. Meskipun tradisi kuliner keduanya tetap berbeda, bahan-bahan umum seperti kelapa menunjukkan bagaimana geografi dapat membentuk kreativitas kuliner dengan cara yang sama. Melalui dua makanan penutup ini, kita melihat bagaimana dapur yang berbeda, dipandu oleh sejarah yang berbeda, dapat menghasilkan ekspresi rasa manis yang sangat mirip.

Ditulis oleh Benetta Swasti

Diterjemahkan oleh Ezy Wiranda

AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 16 February 2026

Indonesia and Australia can make a coal pact for climate progress – I n the 1960s, major oil-producing nations formed a cartel to drive up the price of oil. It worked. For decades, nations in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) have agreed to manage supply and raise prices. [The Jakarta Post]

In the news

On The Blog

  • People and Culture team have officially launched AIYA Volunteers of the Month Program! This initiative will allow AIYA volunteers to anonymously nominate a fellow volunteer who truly embodies our mission to Connect, Inform, Inspire. AIYA Volunteers, kindly check your email for the link.
  • In a recent guest feature for AIYA, Saman Farrukh from Seventure Flow explores how Australian and Indonesian medical and pharmaceutical companies are successfully penetrating the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market. Farrukh highlights that as both nations look to diversify their exports, the GCC has become a vital hub for healthcare expansion. Click here to read the full article!
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.

Events

  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • AIYA NSW Language Exchange (LX) is now every Thursday at Darling Square @6.30pm! Don’t miss the fun and joy with us!!
  • Om Tom Learning Indonesian: An inspiring and educational comedy show about how one man (Om Tom) learnt Indonesian by accident through the different episodes of his life. Delivered bilingually, Learning Indonesian with Om Tom is not only a comedy show but an effort to build bridges between Indonesian and English-speaking communities. Register yourself in Om Tom upcoming shows! Save the dates Adelaide: Tue, 03 Mar – Wed, 04 Mar; Melbourne show: Fri, 27 – Sun, 29 March.

Tune In

  • Bagi seorang Candra Darusman, bukan saja soal ‘ngamen’ yang ada di benaknya – Listen here to know more [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]
  • On January 2nd, 2026, Indonesia entered what officials are calling a “new era” of criminal justice. The country implemented a completely new Criminal code – KUHP – and a new Criminal Procedure Code—known as KUHAP—that changes what counts as a crime and how crimes are identified, investigated and punished. – Tune here to learn more. [Talking Indonesia]
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]

Opportunities

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • Australia Awards – Are you a future leader from Indonesia aspiring to pursue a Masters or PhD at an Australian university? Australia Awards is now accepting application! Apply and experience a world-class education in Australia. Applications close on 30 April 2026. Visit the website for more information!
  • Australia Awards – bekerja sama dengan Australia-Indonesia Knowledge Partnership Platform (KONEKSI), mengundang para profesional dari instansi pemerintah, perguruan tinggi, lembaga riset dan sektor industri untuk mendaftar Beasiswa Studi Singkat Australia Awards, ‘Mendorong Percepatan Hilirisasi Hasil Riset’.We strongly encourage women from disadvantaged backgrounds and people with disability to apply. Due date 23 February 2026, at 23.59 WIB, click here for more info.
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.
AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 10 February 2026

Australia and Indonesia sign historic security treaty. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has concluded a successful visit to Indonesia, further strengthening Australia’s relationship with one of our closest neighbours and friends. Prime Minister Albanese and the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, signed the historic Australia–Indonesia Treaty on Common Security. [Minister for Foreign Affairs]

In the news

On The Blog

  • People and Culture team have officially launched AIYA Volunteers of the Month Program! This initiative will allow AIYA volunteers to anonymously nominate a fellow volunteer who truly embodies our mission to Connect, Inform, Inspire. AIYA Volunteers, kindly check your email for the link.
  • In a recent guest feature for AIYA, Saman Farrukh from Seventure Flow explores how Australian and Indonesian medical and pharmaceutical companies are successfully penetrating the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market. Farrukh highlights that as both nations look to diversify their exports, the GCC has become a vital hub for healthcare expansion. Click here to read the full article!
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.

Events

  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • Jakarta Bintangs in partnership with AIYA, host an Australian Football Training Session on 15 Feb, @Hockey Field 1,GBK Jakarta from 4pm-6pm. Register here.
  • AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • AIYA NSW Language Exchange (LX) is now every Thursday at Darling Square @6.30pm! Don’t miss the fun and joy with us!!
  • AIYA NAILA Learning Indonesian Beyond the Classroom: Strategies for Foreign Learners, interactive workshop is happening on Sun 15 Feb, 9am-12:30pm WIT at Co Working Space No 47 Kecamatan Menteng, Indonesia. Click here to register
  • Australian and Indonesian Short Films Festival Screening is back!!! ReelOzInd! invites you to experience a curated selection of short films by Australian and Indonesian filmmakers that reflect everyday lives, social realities, and shared human experiences across borders. Save the date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 | 6:00 PM @Ashfield Library. It’s a FREE entry, so secure your place here!!
  • Run with Grace with the Amazing Race! Australia Awards is hosting the Australia–Indonesia Amazing Race in Sydney aims to create a fun, inclusive space for Indonesians and Australians to connect and build networks during their time in Australia. Save the date: Saturday, 14 February 2026  8:30 AM – 12:00 PM AEDT at Sydney CBD. Slots are limited! Register here by 09 February.
  • Om Tom Learning Indonesian: An inspiring and educational comedy show about how one man (Om Tom) learnt Indonesian by accident through the different episodes of his life. Delivered bilingually, Learning Indonesian with Om Tom is not only a comedy show but an effort to build bridges between Indonesian and English-speaking communities. Register yourself in Om Tom upcoming shows! Save the dates Adelaide: Tue, 03 Mar – Wed, 04 Mar; Melbourne show: Fri, 27 – Sun, 29 March.

Tune In

  • Talking Indonesia: Indonesian ecological thinking – In this episode, we had a conversation with two of Bacaan Bumi’s key contributors: Farabi Fakih, who heads the Master’s program in History at Gadjah Mada University where the critical environmental history curriculum was born, and Fathun Karib, a historical sociologist, postdoctoral fellow at the Asia Research Institute, and founding member of punk band Critical Death. [Indonesia at Melbourne]
  • SBS Audio Program recaps weekly headlines including Jakarta’s urban density challenges and cultural preservation through cinema like Samsara – Tune here to learn more. [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]

Opportunities

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • The Asia Society Australia is pleased to present the Generation Asia Masterclass: Investment, AI & Asia, delivered in partnership with Professionals in International Trade (PIT). Save the date: Thursday, 12th February 5.30pm at Macquarie University. For more details and registration, please visit this link!!
  • Australia Awards – Are you a future leader from Indonesia aspiring to pursue a Masters or PhD at an Australian university? Australia Awards is now accepting application! Apply and experience a world-class education in Australia. Applications close on 30 April 2026. Visit the website for more information!
  • Australia Awards – bekerja sama dengan Australia-Indonesia Knowledge Partnership Platform (KONEKSI), mengundang para profesional dari instansi pemerintah, perguruan tinggi, lembaga riset dan sektor industri untuk mendaftar Beasiswa Studi Singkat Australia Awards, ‘Mendorong Percepatan Hilirisasi Hasil Riset’.We strongly encourage women from disadvantaged backgrounds and people with disability to apply. Due date 23 February 2026, at 23.59 WIB, click here for more info.
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.
AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 02 February 2026

Indonesia-Australia to Expand Strategic Partnership in Creative Economy – Indonesian Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya welcomed Australian Minister for the Arts Anthony Stephen Burke in Jakarta, underscoring both nations’ commitment to strengthening cross-sector partnerships in 2026. [RRI]

In the news

On The Blog

  • People and Culture team have officially launched AIYA Volunteers of the Month Program! This initiative will allow AIYA volunteers to anonymously nominate a fellow volunteer who truly embodies our mission to Connect, Inform, Inspire. AIYA Volunteers, kindly check your email for the link.
  • In a recent guest feature for AIYA, Saman Farrukh from Seventure Flow explores how Australian and Indonesian medical and pharmaceutical companies are successfully penetrating the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market. Farrukh highlights that as both nations look to diversify their exports, the GCC has become a vital hub for healthcare expansion. Click here to read the full article!
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.
  • AIYA Annual 2024 is here! Reflecting on 2024, AIYA had a great year of growth in bridging Australian and Indonesian youth. Thank you to all our supporters, making sure AIYA continues to Connect, Inform, Inspire. We hope you enjoy reading our report from 2024!

Events

  • Run with Grace with the Amazing Race! Australia Awards is hosting the Australia–Indonesia Amazing Race in Sydney aims to create a fun, inclusive space for Indonesians and Australians to connect and build networks during their time in Australia. Save the date: Saturday, 14 February 2026  8:30 AM – 12:00 PM AEDT at Sydney CBD. Slots are limited! Register here by 09 February to secure your spot.
  • Om Tom Learning Indonesian: An inspiring and educational comedy show about how one man (Om Tom) learnt Indonesian by accident through the different episodes of his life. Delivered bilingually, Learning Indonesian with Om Tom is not only a comedy show but an effort to build bridges between Indonesian and English-speaking communities. Register yourself in Om Tom upcoming shows! Save the dates Adelaide: Tue, 03 Mar – Wed, 04 Mar; Melbourne show: Fri, 27 – Sun, 29 March.
  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • Jakarta Bintangs in partnership with AIYA, host an Australian Football Training Session on 15 Feb, @Hockey Field 1,GBK Jakarta from 4pm-6pm. Register here.
  • Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • AIYA NSW Language Exchange (LX) is now every Thursday at Darling Square @6.30pm! Don’t miss the fun and joy with us!!
  • Australian and Indonesian Short Films Festival Screening is back!!! ReelOzInd! invites you to experience a curated selection of short films by Australian and Indonesian filmmakers that reflect everyday lives, social realities, and shared human experiences across borders. Save the date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 | 6:00 PM @Ashfield Library. It’s a FREE entry, so secure your place here!!

Tune In

  • Talking Indonesia: Indonesian ecological thinking – In this episode, we had a conversation with two of Bacaan Bumi’s key contributors: Farabi Fakih, who heads the Master’s program in History at Gadjah Mada University where the critical environmental history curriculum was born, and Fathun Karib, a historical sociologist, postdoctoral fellow at the Asia Research Institute, and founding member of punk band Critical Death. [Indonesia at Melbourne]
  • SBS Audio Program recaps weekly headlines including Jakarta’s urban density challenges and cultural preservation through cinema like Samsara – Tune here to learn more. [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. [SBS Bahasa Indonesia]

Opportunities

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • The Asia Society Australia is pleased to present the Generation Asia Masterclass: Investment, AI & Asia, delivered in partnership with Professionals in International Trade (PIT). Save the date: Thursday, 12th February 5.30pm at Macquarie University. For more details and registration, please visit this link!!
  • The Australasian and Southeast Asian Muslim Youth Summit (ASEAMYS 2026) is back! If you’re passionate about leadership, community impact, and shaping the future, this is an opportunity not to miss. Register now to secure your place, and visit the event website for more details. 📅 Friday, 6 February (8:00am) – Saturday, 7 February (5:30pm AEST).📍 BTP Conference & Exhibition Centre, Eight Mile Plains, QLD, Australia
  • The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program 2025-26 round is now open for application. Deadline 16:00 (AEDT) 6 February 2026. For more information please visit this website.
  • Are you a future leader from Indonesia aspiring to pursue a Masters or PhD at an Australian university? Australia Awards is now accepting application! Apply and experience a world-class education in Australia. Visit the website for more information!
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.
AIYA Blog

How Australian and Indonesian Medicine Companies Leverage Distribution in the GCC

Written by Saman Farrukh @ Seventure Flow

Edited by: Tri Nurmalina Pambudi (AIYA National Communications Coordinator)

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has become one of the world’s fastest growing healthcare markets. Rising healthcare investments, ambitious national visions, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and a heavy reliance on imported medicines. For Australian and Indonesian medicine companies, this growth presents more than a commercial opportunity. It reflects deeper patterns of health cooperation, knowledge exchange, and regional engagement. It is no surprise that global players are eyeing expansion. Not only this, but GCC’s growth has laid the foundation for countries like Indonesia and Australia, whose medicine companies are aiming for international growth.

This push aligns with wider Australia-Indonesia cooperation in health, education, and research, where institutions and professionals from both countries are diligently working across borders.

Yet entering the GCC is not a simple matter of finding a distributor and shipping products. Success depends not only on product quality, but on navigating regulatory systems, building trusted local partnerships, and managing distribution networks that work across diverse healthcare environments.

Navigating Regulatory Compliance: The Gateway to GCC Market Access

A foundational step for entering the GCC pharmaceutical market starts with understanding regulatory expectations. Each country has its own authority, such as the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), while some frameworks aim to support regional consistency.

For Australian and Indonesian companies, compliance plays a central role in shaping how they engage with GCC healthcare systems. Many firms approach the regulation as the long-term process of alignment and trust building rather than a hurdle, which is often supported by local partners and regional advisers.

These requirements generally involve making sure that the product quality, safety, and manufacturing standards align with local expectations.

For students and early-career professionals, this is a time for them to get hands-on knowledge, as regulatory affairs and policy coordination are becoming visible in career pathways for those interested in international health and cross-border systems.

Forging Market Partnerships: Collaborations That Fuel Expansion

No pharmaceutical company operates in the GCC alone. Strategic partnerships with established local distributors remain central to effective distribution, particularly for navigating logistics, procurement systems, and business practices.

For companies from Australia and Indonesia, whose domestic frameworks differ from those in the GCC, the right partnerships help bridge institutional and operational gaps. These collaborations often include shared warehousing, coordinated supply planning, and ongoing market engagement. 

Australian and Indonesian players also bring complementary strengths. Australia’s research and quality-focused expertise and Indonesia’s growing manufacturing capacity are already seen between the two countries in education and workforce development, which reflects the broader patterns of cooperation.

Optimized Logistics and Supply Chain Innovation

Due to the region’s geographic scale, pharmaceutical companies rely on coordinated logistics and resilient supply chains. Australian and Indonesian firms have adapted by strengthening cold-chain systems, improving inventory visibility, and prioritizing delivery reliability to ensure consistent access to medicines.

These systems support not only efficiency but also patient safety across diverse healthcare settings.

Research, Technology, and Emerging Skills

Research and digital tools are increasingly central to how Australian and Indonesian pharmaceutical companies operate in the GCC. Digital platforms support registration processes, market analysis, and post-market monitoring, helping firms adapt to GCC-specific healthcare needs.

 

These developments have opened doors for young professionals, providing opportunities in areas such as digital health, supply chain management, and regulatory support. Exposure to cross-border systems is becoming an increasingly valuable part of early career development.

Conclusion: A Long-Term View of GCC Engagement

Australian and Indonesian pharmaceutical companies are not simply entering the GCC market; they are engaging with it through collaboration, learning, and long-term partnerships.

By navigating regulatory systems and working closely with regional distributors, companies contribute to deeper Australia-Indonesia cooperation, strengthening people-to-people links and institutional relationships that extend beyond commercial outcomes alone.

AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 26 January 2026

The Australian Embassy in Indonesia, together with the Indonesian Embassy in Australia, launched the 2026 Indonesian Language Learning Ambassadors (ILLA) program on 20 Jan. (Australia Embassy)

In The News

On The Blog

  • People and Culture team have officially launched AIYA Volunteers of the Month Program! This initiative will allow AIYA volunteers to anonymously nominate a fellow volunteer who truly embodies our mission to Connect, Inform, Inspire. AIYA Volunteers, kindly check your email for the link.
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.
  • AIYA Annual 2024 is here! Reflecting on 2024, AIYA had a great year of growth in bridging Australian and Indonesian youth. Thank you to all our supporters, making sure AIYA continues to Connect, Inform, Inspire. We hope you enjoy reading our report from 2024!

Events

  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • Jakarta Bintangs in partnership with AIYA, host an Australian Football Training Session on 15 Feb, @Hockey Field 1,GBK Jakarta from 4pm-6pm. Register here.
  • Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • AIYA NSW Language Exchange (LX) is now every Thursday at Darling Square @6.30pm! Don’t miss the fun and joy with us!!
  • Australian and Indonesian Short Films Festival Screening is back!!! ReelOzInd! invites you to experience a curated selection of short films by Australian and Indonesian filmmakers that reflect everyday lives, social realities, and shared human experiences across borders. Save the date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 | 6:00 PM @Ashfield Library. It’s a FREE entry, so secure your place here!!

Tune In

  • Talking Indonesia: after the floods – In this week’s episode, Jemma chats with Alfira O’Sullivan and Murtala, directors of Suara Indonesia Dance. Originally from Banda Aceh, Murtala worked as a volunteer assisting in the wake of the 2002 tsunami. Together with friends and colleagues in Aceh, they are coordinating relief efforts in the flood-stricken province. (Indonesia at Melbourne)
  • SBS Audio Program recaps weekly headlines including Jakarta’s urban density challenges and cultural preservation through cinema like Samsara – Tune here to learn more. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)

Opportunities

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • Applications NOW OPEN! AIYA Victoria is searching for its next committee of engaged and enthusiastic individuals who are ready to share their skills and learn new ones to bring our 2026 calendar of Australia-Indonesia related events to life. We’re recruiting: Vice President, Secretary, Education Officers, Socio-cultural Officers, Professional Programs Officers and Communications Officers. See Position Descriptions for full explanations of the roles and apply here.
  • The Australasian and Southeast Asian Muslim Youth Summit (ASEAMYS 2026) is back! If you’re passionate about leadership, community impact, and shaping the future, this is an opportunity not to miss. Register now to secure your place, and visit the event website for more details. 📅 Friday, 6 February (8:00am) – Saturday, 7 February (5:30pm AEST).📍 BTP Conference & Exhibition Centre, Eight Mile Plains, QLD, Australia
  • The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program 2025-26 round is now open for application. Deadline 16:00 (AEDT) 6 February 2026. For more information please visit this website.
  • Come be apart of AIYA WA for 2026. We are looking for Secretary, Treasurer, and Events Officer positions. Take a look here. Positions close on 1 Feb 2026.
  • Several internship opportunities are now available at ACICIS offices in Bandung and Yogyakarta!. Check out the available roles and their deadlines here.
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Are you a staff member at the Ministry of Finance looking to strengthen Indonesia’s economic and environmental policy capacity through postgraduate studies in Indonesia and Australia? This scholarship is designed especially for you. Applications are now open for the Split-Site Masters Program in Economics and Environmental Resource Management!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.
AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 19 January 2026

Building cooperation through faith and mental health – Australian Defence Force personnel and members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) explored how faith, culture and emotional resilience shape the way military personnel support each other in difficult environments. (Defence News)

In The News

On The Blog

  • People and Culture team have officially launched AIYA Volunteers of the Month Program! This initiative will allow AIYA volunteers to anonymously nominate a fellow volunteer who truly embodies our mission to Connect, Inform, Inspire. AIYA Volunteers, kindly check your email for the link.
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.
  • AIYA Annual 2024 is here! Reflecting on 2024, AIYA had a great year of growth in bridging Australian and Indonesian youth. Thank you to all our supporters, making sure AIYA continues to Connect, Inform, Inspire. We hope you enjoy reading our report from 2024!

Events

  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • AIYA NSW Language Exchange (LX) is now every Thursday at Darling Square @6.30pm! Don’t miss the fun and joy with us!!
  • Australian and Indonesian Short Films Festival Screening is back!!! ReelOzInd! invites you to experience a curated selection of short films by Australian and Indonesian filmmakers that reflect everyday lives, social realities, and shared human experiences across borders. Save the date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 | 6:00 PM @Ashfield Library. It’s a FREE entry, so secure your place here!!
  • Picnic, people, and good vibes!! Join AIYA Victoria’s PICNIC on Sunday 11 January 2026 at Flagstaff Gardens @3PM. This event is open to the public, members and non-members are welcome! Don’t forget to register yourself here!
  • Ready to reconnect, celebrate and shine with fellow Australian alumni in Makassar? Australian alumni, as well as those who will be in Makassar on 24 January, are invited to join the Australian Alumni Gala Dinner Makassar at 17.00 WITA, held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Australian Consulate-General. Register before 20 January at oz.link/galamakassar

Tune In

  • Talking Indonesia: after the floods – In this week’s episode, Jemma chats with Alfira O’Sullivan and Murtala, directors of Suara Indonesia Dance. Originally from Banda Aceh, Murtala worked as a volunteer assisting in the wake of the 2002 tsunami. Together with friends and colleagues in Aceh, they are coordinating relief efforts in the flood-stricken province. (Indonesia at Melbourne)
  • SBS Audio Program recaps weekly headlines including Jakarta’s urban density challenges and cultural preservation through cinema like Samsara – Tune here to learn more. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)

Opportunities

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • Applications NOW OPEN! AIYA Victoria is searching for its next committee of engaged and enthusiastic individuals who are ready to share their skills and learn new ones to bring our 2026 calendar of Australia-Indonesia related events to life. We’re recruiting: Vice President, Secretary, Education Officers, Socio-cultural Officers, Professional Programs Officers and Communications Officers. See Position Descriptions for full explanations of the roles and apply here.
  • The Australasian and Southeast Asian Muslim Youth Summit (ASEAMYS 2026) is back! If you’re passionate about leadership, community impact, and shaping the future, this is an opportunity not to miss. Register now to secure your place, and visit the event website for more details. 📅 Friday, 6 February (8:00am) – Saturday, 7 February (5:30pm AEST).📍 BTP Conference & Exhibition Centre, Eight Mile Plains, QLD, Australia
  • The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program 2025-26 round is now open for application. Deadline 16:00 (AEDT) 6 February 2026. For more information please visit this website.
  • The University of Melbourne is looking for a Communications Coordinator to support communications and engagement, collaborate with diverse stakeholders and drive strategic initiatives. Deadline is January 21, 2026. Visit this link for more information.
  • Come be apart of AIYA WA for 2026. We are looking for Secretary, Treasurer, and Events Officer positions. Take a look here. Positions close on 1 Feb 2026.
  • Several internship opportunities are now available at ACICIS offices in Bandung and Yogyakarta!. Check out the available roles and their deadlines here.
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Are you a staff member at the Ministry of Finance looking to strengthen Indonesia’s economic and environmental policy capacity through postgraduate studies in Indonesia and Australia? This scholarship is designed especially for you. Applications are now open for the Split-Site Masters Program in Economics and Environmental Resource Management!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.
AIYA Links, AIYA News

Links 12 January 2026

Kala Jokowi Turun Tangan Usai Pasal Kumpul Kebo-Zinah Diserang AS hingga Australia – Australian media, alongside US outlets, criticizes Indonesia’s new criminal code provisions on extramarital sex and cohabitation, prompting former President Jokowi’s intervention. (Kompas)

In The News

On The Blog

  • People and Culture team have officially launched AIYA Volunteers of the Month Program! This initiative will allow AIYA volunteers to anonymously nominate a fellow volunteer who truly embodies our mission to Connect, Inform, Inspire. AIYA Volunteers, kindly check your email for the link.
  • AIYA Urges UTAS to Reconsider Closure of Indonesian Language Program – The Australia-Indonesia Youth Association (AIYA) has formally urged the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to reconsider its proposal to discontinue the Indonesian Language Program, which has been flagged for closure due to low enrolment and internal restructuring.
  • AIYA Annual 2024 is here! Reflecting on 2024, AIYA had a great year of growth in bridging Australian and Indonesian youth. Thank you to all our supporters, making sure AIYA continues to Connect, Inform, Inspire. We hope you enjoy reading our report from 2024!

Events

  • JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
  • AIYA NSW Language Exchange (LX) is now every Thursday at Darling Square @6.30pm! Don’t miss the fun and joy with us!!
  • Australian and Indonesian Short Films Festival Screening is back!!! ReelOzInd! invites you to experience a curated selection of short films by Australian and Indonesian filmmakers that reflect everyday lives, social realities, and shared human experiences across borders. Save the date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 | 6:00 PM @Ashfield Library. It’s a FREE entry, so secure your place here!!
  • Picnic, people, and good vibes!! Join AIYA Victoria’s PICNIC on Sunday 11 January 2026 at Flagstaff Gardens @3PM. This event is open to the public, members and non-members are welcome! Don’t forget to register yourself here!
  • Ready to reconnect, celebrate and shine with fellow Australian alumni in Makassar? Australian alumni, as well as those who will be in Makassar on 24 January, are invited to join the Australian Alumni Gala Dinner Makassar at 17.00 WITA, held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Australian Consulate-General. Register before 20 January at oz.link/galamakassar

Tune In

  • Flash flooding risk as ex cyclone Koji downgraded – Tune here to know more. (SBS News AU)
  • SBS Audio Program recaps weekly headlines including Jakarta’s urban density challenges and cultural preservation through cinema like Samsara – Tune here to learn more. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)
  • Kabar Indonesia: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo menjadi Dilema Konservasi dan Perlawanan Masyarakat Listen here to know more. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)

Opportunities

We’re so excited to share our newest partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

  • The Australasian and Southeast Asian Muslim Youth Summit (ASEAMYS 2026) is back! If you’re passionate about leadership, community impact, and shaping the future, this is an opportunity not to miss. Register now to secure your place, and visit the event website for more details. 📅 Friday, 6 February (8:00am) – Saturday, 7 February (5:30pm AEST).📍 BTP Conference & Exhibition Centre, Eight Mile Plains, QLD, Australia
  • The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program 2025-26 round is now open for application. Deadline 16:00 (AEDT) 6 February 2026. For more information please visit this website.
  • The University of Melbourne is looking for a Communications Coordinator to support communications and engagement, collaborate with diverse stakeholders and drive strategic initiatives. Deadline is January 21, 2026. Visit this link for more information.
  • Come be apart of AIYA WA for 2026. We are looking for Secretary, Treasurer, and Events Officer positions. Take a look here. Positions close on 1 Feb 2026.
  • Several internship opportunities are now available at ACICIS offices in Bandung and Yogyakarta!. Check out the available roles and their deadlines here.
  • Monash University is looking for a Project Manager! If you feel like someone who have climate change policy background, extensive experience in project management and education training, you might the perfect fit for this role! find out more information about this role here!!
  • Are you a staff member at the Ministry of Finance looking to strengthen Indonesia’s economic and environmental policy capacity through postgraduate studies in Indonesia and Australia? This scholarship is designed especially for you. Applications are now open for the Split-Site Masters Program in Economics and Environmental Resource Management!
  • Volunteer positions for WIIS-A (Women in International Security – Australia) are available. Come and check the position of Communication officer and Events officer. Apply ASAP.
  • The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here. 
    The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
  • The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
  • Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
  • The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
  • The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
  • The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
  • The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.
Privacy Settings
We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. You can selectively provide your consent below to allow such third party embeds. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our Privacy Policy
Youtube
Consent to display content from - Youtube
Vimeo
Consent to display content from - Vimeo
Google Maps
Consent to display content from - Google
Save