Introducing the new AIYA Board of Directors, ready to connect, inspire, and empower youth across Australia and Indonesia! Check out the AIYA National Instagram to get to know the new directors.

In The News

• Triple-zero emergency calls outage raises alarm – In New South Wales, an outage affecting the triple-zero (000) emergency system disrupted services for several hours. This is the second such incident in recent weeks, prompting demands for deeper investigations into Australia’s emergency communications infrastructure. (The Guardian)
• Islamic school building collapse injures many student – An unauthorized expansion of an Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo, East Java, collapsed during afternoon prayers. At least one student died and 83 others were injured, with rescue teams continuing to search for those trapped under rubble.  (AP News)
• Press freedom concerns after journalist loses palace access – Indonesia restored access for a CNN Indonesia reporter after revoking it, which had sparked widespread criticism. The journalist had asked President Prabowo about the free school meal program after many children fell ill. The incident has drawn renewed focus on press freedoms in the country. (Reuters)
• Extreme weather swings: heat in north, floods in south – A rare Antarctic warming event has disrupted Australia’s weather patterns. Northern and eastern regions are facing high heat (up to 40 °C), while southern areas (Victoria, Tasmania) are under flood watches with heavy rainfall and wind warnings. (news.com.au)
• New subsidy scheme for homebuilders and small developer – To boost housing supply, the Indonesian government will subsidize 5% interest on loans for small developers, and 5.5–10% of interest for homeowners borrowing up to 500 million rupiah. The scheme is part of a broader housing stimulus to ease the country’s housing shortage. (Reuters)

On The Blog

• 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!
• 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 our October Monthly Event! This month we’re hosting a special ReelOzInd screening at Union Cinema from 6pm–8pm. 🍿✨ The venue is just a 2-minute walk from our usual spot — so bring your friends and enjoy an evening of film, culture, and connection!
• 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.
• Join AIYA SA on the last Friday of every month for a vibrant and inclusive evening of Indonesian culture, right here in South Australia! FREE for AIYA SA and PPIA UoA members! 🎉Grab your ticket here

Tune In

• SBS Audio, a podcast in Indonesian from SBS Audio covering recent news in both Australia and Indonesia. Listen here to know more.
• Why does Trump think paracetamol causes autism? – US President Donald Trump has told women they shouldn’t take paracetamol (also known as Tylenol or acetaminophen) during pregnancy because it has been linked to autism. Listen here to learn more.

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.

• Host an Indonesian delegate in Melbourne, connect across cultures. Oct 25 – Nov 19, Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program 2025 — Host Family Expression of Interest. As a host family, you’ll receive a $1,050 stipend to cover hosting costs, and full support from our AIYEP team. More info here.
• Asialink Education – Are you concerned about the decline in the numbers of Australian students studying the Indonesian language in Australian schools and universities? A Roundtable on Australian Schools’ Engagement with Indonesia is taking place virtually on 20 November 2025 from 13:00 – 17:00 AEDT. More info here.
• Acicis celebrates its 30th anniversary, we are delighted to relaunch the Bahasa Sesh Challenge (10 September–20 October 2025) – a social media initiative encouraging Australians to reconnect with Indonesia through language. Click here for more info.
• The House Standing Committee on Education – Inquiry into Building Asia Capability in Australia through the education system and beyond. The Committee is seeking written submissions, providing recommendations in response to the inquiry terms of reference by Friday, 7 November 2025. More info here.
• AIYEP 2025 Host Organisation Expression of Interest is now open. In this year’s program, AIYEP participants will complete a three week full-time work experience from 27 October to 14 November 2025. Submit your interest here.
• AIYEP 2025 Host Family Application is now open. In this year’s program, participants will stay in Melbourne with host families for three weeks from 25 October to 16 November 2025. Submit your interest here.
• Nominations for the DFAT 2025 Australia-Indonesia Institute Indonesian Studies Awards are now open. The Australia-Indonesia Institute’s (AII) Indonesian Studies Awards recognise the achievements and contributions of Indonesian language teachers, researchers, and leaders in Indonesian cultural outreach in Australia. The closing date for receiving nominations is 1 October 2025. Further information can be found here.
• 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 Justice and Community Safety, Victoria is currently seeking a Digital Communication Officer to provides timely communication support and advice for the department’s business units, senior executive and ministerial offices. Apply here!
• 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.

Introducing the new AIYA Board of Directors, ready to connect, inspire, and empower youth across Australia and Indonesia! Check out the AIYA National Instagram to get to know the new directors.

In The News

• Asia’s protests grew from social media where misinformation also spread. In the past five years we have seen mass protests escalate across Asia, toppling governments and bringing megacities to a standstill. (ABC News)
• Common ground found in common skies. ‘Through this exercise, we not only hone our technical skills but build trust, strengthen brotherhood and lay the foundation for future cooperation.’
  Australian Defence Attaché Brigadier Micah Batt said the ADF was grateful to the Indonesian Defence Force for hosting the exercise.  (Defence.gov.au)
• Measles Alert Issued in Australia: Traveler from Indonesia Sparks Health Warning in Sydney. Authorities have urged the public to be vigilant and monitor for symptoms until October 4, 2025. The measles virus is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. (Travel and Tour World)
• More than 800 Indonesian students get food poisoning from free school meals. more than 4,000 children have been hit by food poisoning after consuming the meals since the programme was launched in January. (ABC News)
• Profesi Pengantar Makanan di Australia Digemari Warga Indonesia, Tapi Perlu Berhati-hati. Salah satu jenis pelanggaran yang sering ditemukan adalah memodifikasi sepeda yang bisa membahayakan pengemudinya. (ABC News)

On The Blog

• 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!
• 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

• Ticket reservations for the Jakarta Bintangs AFL Grand Final Event are now live! Come join us 27 September 2025 for a full day of footy, fun and free-flow, and to celebrate 30 years of the Jakarta Bintangs! More info here.
• 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.
• Join AIYA SA on the last Friday of every month for a vibrant and inclusive evening of Indonesian culture, right here in South Australia! FREE for AIYA SA and PPIA UoA members! 🎉Grab your ticket here
• We are so back!! AIYA SA is now continuing to hold Indonesian study sessions every Wednesday at 12.30 PM on Flinders Uni City campus on level 4. Find out more information on this link!

Tune In

• The ambition to develop a career pathway for Indonesian nurses wishing to further their skills in Australia has taken another step following a meeting of industry leaders from both countries. Representatives from the nursing regulatory, training, union and university sectors from both countries attended a two day event in Jakarta to discuss the requirements for a model of work placement and skills exchange. Find out more about the news!
• Governments across Asia are confronting a new kind of policy challenge — one that’s moving faster than most have ever had to legislate for. The astonishing speed of generative AI development has prompted both excitement and alarm in Asia’s capitals, where the potential for economic growth and national prestige is being weighed against serious questions about risk, regulation, and long-term control. Listen here for more.
• The Federal Government has announced plans to scrap import taxes on 500 products, ranging from wine glasses to air conditioners. Listen here for in depth knowledge.

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.

• Host an Indonesian delegate in Melbourne, connect across cultures. Oct 25 – Nov 19, Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program 2025 — Host Family Expression of Interest. As a host family, you’ll receive a $1,050 stipend to cover hosting costs, and full support from our AIYEP team. More info here.
• Asialink Education – Are you concerned about the decline in the numbers of Australian students studying the Indonesian language in Australian schools and universities? A Roundtable on Australian Schools’ Engagement with Indonesia is taking place virtually on 20 November 2025 from 13:00 – 17:00 AEDT. More info here.
• Acicis celebrates its 30th anniversary, we are delighted to relaunch the Bahasa Sesh Challenge (10 September–20 October 2025) – a social media initiative encouraging Australians to reconnect with Indonesia through language. Click here for more info.
• The House Standing Committee on Education – Inquiry into Building Asia Capability in Australia through the education system and beyond. The Committee is seeking written submissions, providing recommendations in response to the inquiry terms of reference by Friday, 7 November 2025. More info here.
• AIYEP 2025 Host Organisation Expression of Interest is now open. In this year’s program, AIYEP participants will complete a three week full-time work experience from 27 October to 14 November 2025. Submit your interest here.
• AIYEP 2025 Host Family Application is now open. In this year’s program, participants will stay in Melbourne with host families for three weeks from 25 October to 16 November 2025. Submit your interest here.
• Nominations for the DFAT 2025 Australia-Indonesia Institute Indonesian Studies Awards are now open. The Australia-Indonesia Institute’s (AII) Indonesian Studies Awards recognise the achievements and contributions of Indonesian language teachers, researchers, and leaders in Indonesian cultural outreach in Australia. The closing date for receiving nominations is 1 October 2025. Further information can be found here.
• 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 Justice and Community Safety, Victoria is currently seeking a Digital Communication Officer to provides timely communication support and advice for the department’s business units, senior executive and ministerial offices. Apply here!
• 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.

Introducing the new AIYA Board of Directors, ready to connect, inspire, and empower youth across Australia and Indonesia! Check out the AIYA National Instagram to get to know the new directors.

In The News

• Safety Advisory Issued for Indonesians in Australia Following Sydney Incident – Indonesian citizens in Australia are advised to be cautious and increase their awareness due to a planned large-scale protest scheduled for Saturday, September 13, 2025. The demonstrations are planned to take place in 12 cities across Australia. In a press statement, the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra urged Indonesian citizens in Australia to avoid crowded areas and protest locations. [Radio Republik Indonesia]
• Two men charged with allegedly trafficking firearms following international investigation into kidnapping – Two men have been charged with allegedly trafficking firearms to a violent paramilitary group based in Indonesia. A two-year joint investigation by the Queensland Joint Counter Terrorism Team (QLD JCTT) – made up of AFP, Queensland Police Service and Australian Security Intelligence Organisation members – and New Zealand Police, has resulted in a New South Wales man, 64, and a Queensland man, 44, being charged with firearm trafficking offences. [Australian Federal Police]
• Poor waste management, land conversion worsened deadly Bali floods, says Indonesia’s environment minister – The floods have killed 16 people in the province. Bali Governor I Wayan Koster denied land conversion in Denpasar caused the floods, arguing the issue stemmed from river flows from neighbouring districts. [CNA]
• Dunia Hari Ini: Australia Akan Jadi Negara Pertama Lindungi Anak-anak dari Kecerdasan Buatan – Australia akan mencegah anak-anak untuk terlibat dalam percakapan seksual, kekerasan, atau percakapan berbahaya lainnya saat menggunakan kecerdasan buatan atau AI. Ini menjadi langkah pertama di dunia untuk memastikan anak-anak di Australia. [ABC News]
• Albanese government pours $12 billion into expanding AUKUS defence facility near Perth – The Albanese government will spend $12 billion on building a submarine and naval shipbuilding facility under AUKUS, as doubts linger over the agreement’s future. For months, the Trump administration has been pressuring Australia to lift defence spending, while the Pentagon reviews AUKUS against Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda. [ABC News]
• WA Health issues measles warning as two more cases linked to Bali travel – West Australians planning to visit South-East Asia are being urged to get vaccinated against measles after two more cases were linked with travel to Bali. The state has now recorded 35 cases of measles this year, prompting warnings from health officials for people to ensure they are protected ahead of the upcoming school holidays. [ABC News]
• Beyond quick fixes: Indonesia’s race to restore forests and nature – A series of demonstrations and riots in several regions of Indonesia at the end of August damaged a number of public facilities, including Transjakarta bus stops, toll gates, the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) office, and even museum buildings. These facilities were quickly repaired and returned to use within a week, as was the case with the Transjakarta bus stop. [Antara News]
• Indonesia Braces for Another Week of Extreme Weather After Bali’s Worst Floods in a Decade – Indonesia’s meteorological agency on Friday warned of another week of extreme weather across the country, just days after Bali was hit by its most severe flooding in 10 years. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said heavy rainfall and strong winds are likely to affect multiple provinces between Sept. 12–18, raising risks of floods, landslides, and high waves. [Jakarta Globle]
• Indonesia prepares to open first Garuda Schools next year – The Indonesian government is preparing to open the first Garuda Schools (Sekolah Garuda) in the next academic year as part of a flagship program to develop a new generation of highly skilled, globally competitive graduates in science and technology. [Antara News]

On The Blog

• 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!
• 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

• AIA SYDNEY CITY CULTURAL WALK – We would like to invite you to come on a two hour walk from Wynyard Park to Dixon St in the city on SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 2025. Our guide is Neil Smith President of Blacktown Historical Society and A.I.A committee member. AIYA members can join the walk for the same fee ($5) as AIA members. Register yourself here!!
• Asia Society Australia is pleased to invite you to our Generation Asia masterclass (Wednesday, 17 September 2025) featuring Jeremy Dicker, Managing Editor of the International Intrigue. In a world where geopolitics demands more attention than ever, what role do humour and modern media play? See here for more details and email [email protected] to register.
• 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.
• Join AIYA SA on the last Friday of every month for a vibrant and inclusive evening of Indonesian culture, right here in South Australia! FREE for AIYA SA and PPIA UoA members! 🎉Grab your ticket here
• We are so back!! AIYA SA is now continuing to hold Indonesian study sessions every Wednesday at 12.30 PM on Flinders Uni City campus on level 4. Find out more information on this link!

Tune In

• The ambition to develop a career pathway for Indonesian nurses wishing to further their skills in Australia has taken another step following a meeting of industry leaders from both countries. Representatives from the nursing regulatory, training, union and university sectors from both countries attended a two day event in Jakarta to discuss the requirements for a model of work placement and skills exchange. Find out more about the news!
• Governments across Asia are confronting a new kind of policy challenge — one that’s moving faster than most have ever had to legislate for. The astonishing speed of generative AI development has prompted both excitement and alarm in Asia’s capitals, where the potential for economic growth and national prestige is being weighed against serious questions about risk, regulation, and long-term control. Listen here for more.
• The Federal Government has announced plans to scrap import taxes on 500 products, ranging from wine glasses to air conditioners. Listen here for in depth knowledge.

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.

• Host an Indonesian delegate in Melbourne, connect across cultures. Oct 25 – Nov 19, Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program 2025 — Host Family Expression of Interest. As a host family, you’ll receive a $1,050 stipend to cover hosting costs, and full support from our AIYEP team. More info here.
• AIYEP 2025 Host Organisation Expression of Interest is now open. In this year’s program, AIYEP participants will complete a three week full-time work experience from 27 October to 14 November 2025. Submit your interest here.
• AIYEP 2025 – For those open to being a Host Family for AIYEP 2025, we are pleased to invite you to take part. In this year’s program, participants will stay in Melbourne with host families for three weeks from 25 October to 16 November 2025. Submit your interest here.
• Nominations for the 2025 Australia-Indonesia Institute Indonesian Studies Awards are now open. The Australia-Indonesia Institute’s (AII) Indonesian Studies Awards recognise the achievements and contributions of Indonesian language teachers, researchers, and leaders in Indonesian cultural outreach in Australia. The closing date for receiving nominations is 1 October 2025. Further information can be found here.
• 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!
• The University of Melbourne is looking for Strategic Communications Specialist (Chancellery). Click here for more information about the opportunity!
• Department of Justice and Community Safety, Victoria is currently seeking a Digital Communication Officer to provides timely communication support and advice for the department’s business units, senior executive and ministerial offices. Apply here!
• Palladium is looking a Business Development for Asia Pacific region. Check here for more information.
• 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.

In the News

• Coalition to cut international student numbers by 80,000, raise visa application fees – Peter Dutton says a reduction in foreign students would help Australians “afford homes again”, by bringing down the cost of living. The Greens and the university sector have sharply criticised the plan as “scapegoating”. [SBS]
• The new TNI Law is about much more than just military dual function – Fears of an authoritarian reversal in Indonesia have gained traction, especially after Prabowo Subianto, a former military general known for his record of alleged gross human rights violations, assumed the presidency in Indonesia. [Indonesia at Melbourne]
• The billion-dollar problem that neither Albanese nor Dutton wants to become a big issue – Australia is heading into an election at a time of ongoing global deterioration, experts say, prompting questions about its defence approach and level of spending. [SBS]
• Nusantara welcomes 64,000 visitors over Idul Fitri – The future capital has quietly played host to a record 64,000 domestic and foreign visitors over the extended Idul Fitri holiday, the largest footfall it has seen since Jokowi left office last October. [ The Jakarta Post]
• Indonesia volcano eruption creates huge column of ash – Indonesia’s Mount Marapi erupted on Thursday, sending a column of ash 1.5km (4,900ft) above its peak. Timelapse CCTV footage captured the ash rising into the sky. The eruption has been rated at level two – the third-highest severity level – requiring a 3km (9,800ft) exclusion zone. [BBC]
• What difference will the election outcome make to Australia ties with Southeast Asia – The Albanese government has hung its hat on improving ties with Australia’s two near regions, the Pacific and Southeast Asia. And while there is clearly a hierarchy of effort, with the Pacific rightly allocated greater resources, Southeast Asia has been a focus for Foreign Minister Penny Wong. [Lowy Institute]
• Stylish new Bali resort helps the battle against bogans – Badly behaved bogans in Bintang singlets beware: Bali is clamping down on disrespectful tourists. The government is seeking to close loopholes in laws that allow recklessness to thrive among visitors as well as overhauling poor law enforcement of certain behaviours. [Sydney Morning Herald]
• Perang Dagang AS: Indonesia Masih Berhitung, China Membalas, Australia Protes – Presiden AS telah mengenakan tarif timbal balik terhadap Indonesia sebesar 32 persen. Kepala Kantor Komunikasi Kepresidenan, Hasan Nasbi pun menyebut Indonesia saat ini masih hitung-hitungan soal dampak dari kebijakan baru AS tersebut. [Kompas.com]
• Profil Matthew Baker, Bek Andalan Timnas Indonesia U-17 yang Tolak Panggilan Timnas Australia U-17 – Pemain muda kelahiran Melbourne, Australia, pada 13 Mei 2009. Matthew Baker memiliki darah campuran Australia dari sang ayah dan Indonesia dari ibunya. Matthew Baker mengawali karier sepak bolanya di akademi lokal Australia, Malvern City (2016-2017), sebelum pindah ke Box Hill United (2018-2021). [Sindonews]
• Tempe hingga Teater Mak Yong Diajukan Jadi Warisan Budaya Takbenda UNESCO – Kementerian Kebudayaan umumkan telah mengajukan formulir pengusulan Warisan Budaya Takbenda atau Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) ke Sekretariat UNESCO, Paris akhir Maret 2025 lalu. Di 2025, Indonesia mengajukan 3 budaya baru yakni Tempe, Jaranan, dan Teater Mak Yong. [Detik.com]

Tune In

• For the past few months, the hashtag #KaburAjaDulu has been taking over Indonesian social media. Driven by dreams of a better life and greater opportunities abroad, many overlook the challenges and trade-offs that come with it. In this episode of #KaburAjaDulu, one of our blog editors shares her personal journey—the highs, the lows, and the unexpected realities of living overseas.
• Climate Change is well-recognised as a massive challenge facing society today. It is clear that the political, economic and social consequences of climate change will not be felt equally, not only globally but also across Indonesia. (Talking Indonesia)
• Join Billy Adison Aditijanto and sit down with overseas Indonesians and the Indonesian diaspora to explore what it means to be, well, Indonesians. From international students to first-generation migrants, Indonesian academics to industry players, The Perantau Podcast dives into cross-cultural experiences, diaspora insights, Indonesian culture abroad, and the global Indonesian community. (The Perantau Podcast)
• Ready to future-proof your team? On the new episode of The Katalis Podcast, industry leaders Tim Gilbert, VP International Development, Melbourne Polytechnic, and Devi Ariyani, Executive Director, Indonesia Services Dialogue, share why the new Australian digital training platform, Indonesia-Australia Skills Exchange, is the go-to solution. (Katalis)
• Mas Zac, AIYA Western Australia President, had the honour of interviewing Ibu Listiana Operananta, Indonesian Consulate General in Perth. Check out the full interview here. (Instagram)
• Pelangi Indonesia School, an initiative of the Indonesian-Australian community in New South Wales, began its journey in early 2011 under the organisation Indonesian-Australian Families Association of New South Wales Incorporated (IAFA Inc.). In its operation for more than 10 years, Sekolah Indonesia Pelangi is supported by a number of volunteer teachers who are very dedicated in teaching Indonesian language and culture. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)
• Australian device helping amputees in Indonesia. Millions of people across the world have had their leg amputated, but not all of them have access to the specialist care needed for a proper prosthetic limb. It’s a problem a team of Melbourne health professionals are addressing. Their new portable device creates casts for prosthetic limbs using only a pressurised water tank. (ABC Listen)
• A new AAH and ACOLA research report shows outputs from Australia-Indonesia bilateral research relationships are at an all-time high — with benefits to global health, energy, trade, people and culture — with further opportunities to grow. At the same time, researchers warn we risk taking this relationship for granted, with a decline in language capability causing concern. (Australian Academy of the Humanities)

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 FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.
• AIYA SA intends to continue their study session in 2025! Join the study session every Monday at 12.30pm AEDT & every Friday at 12pm AEDT

Opportunities

• Cowater International is seeking a Senior Partnerships Manager for The DFAT-funded Knowledge Partnership Platform (KONEKSI) project. Click here for more information!
• Cowater International is seeking a Communication Manager for The Australia-Indonesia Partnership Towards an Inclusive Society, or INKLUSI. For further information, click here!
• ANU Indonesia Project Student Research Travel Grant applications open! Are you an Australian student researching Indonesia? The ANU Indonesia Project Student Research Travel Grant provides funding to help cover research or travel costs to Indonesia, see here. maximum value of each grant is $3,000. Applications open until April 6th.
• 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!!
• The wait is almost over… Applications for AIMEP 2025 will be opening soon — stay tuned for the official announcement!
• Australia Awards is opening various short course. Check here for more!
  • Strengthening the Higher Education Systems in Indonesia. Apply here by 20 April
  • Building cyber resilience: Managing risks and leveraging opportunities. Apply here by 10 April
  • Grains Value Chain Leadership Program. Apply here before 6 April
• The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is opening various job opportunities. Check here.
• McGregor Casting is looking for Indonesian Boy age 12-16 based in AUS/NZ/INDONESIA to audition for a support role in a feature film. click here for information!
• 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
• Join Prospera talents community and become a part of a thriving network of professionals like you! Sign up today by dropping your CV here and shape the future with Prospera!
• KIAT (Kemitraan Indonesia Australia untuk Infrastruktur) is opening various employment opportunities and current tenders. Find out here. KIAT works with its government partners across Indonesia to deliver a range of large and small projects to improve access to infrastructure for all Indonesians.
• 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: 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.
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organises 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 or 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.

In the News

• Nyepi, Eid al-Fitr as momentum to maintain diversity: Vice President – Vice President Gibran Rakabuming emphasized the importance of maintaining diversity as the nation’s strength in commemorating Nyepi (Silence Day) and Eid al-Fitr, which fall close together this year.
• President extends Nyepi Day greetings to Indonesian Hindus – President Prabowo Subianto conveyed his greetings to Indonesian Hindus commemorating Nyepi (Day of Silence) in the 1947 Balinese saka year.
• Nyepi in Bali 2025: A Day of Silence in Balinese New Year – A day when entire island of Bali comes to a standstill, where the hustle of everyday life fades away in full silence, and the only sounds you hear are the nature.
• Eid 2025 Potentially the Same, Momentum to Reunite the Indonesian Hijri Calendar – Eid al-Fitr 1 Shawwal 1446 Hijri will most likely be celebrated simultaneously by Indonesian Muslims on Monday, March 31, 2025. Although this alignment of Eid 2025 occurs due to the favorable position of the crescent moon, this situation should be utilized to reunite all Islamic mass organizations in order to achieve a unified Hijri calendar for Indonesia.
• What to know about Eid al-Fitr, the celebration at the end of Ramadan – For the past month, Muslims around the world have been fasting from sunrise to sunset for Ramadan, marking the holy month through reflection on their faith. But once Ramadan ends, a festive period called Eid al-Fitr begins and daytime meals are back on the table. Here’s what to know about the days ahead.
• Australia Mendukung Centres of Excellence untuk Program Makan Bergizi Gratis di Indonesia – Kuasa Usaha Australia, Gita Kamath, dan Penjabat Perwakilan UNICEF Indonesia, Jean Lokenga, telah menandatangani perjanjian untuk mendanai Centres of Excellence (Pusat Unggulan Nasional) guna mendukung program Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) di Indonesia.
• May 3 federal election to be called by Anthony Albanese Friday morning – The federal election will be called on Friday for May 3, the ABC has confirmed. It triggers a five-week campaign to convince voters whether Labor under Anthony Albanese or the Coalition under Peter Dutton is most fit to lead the country.
• Australia scales back hydrogen ambitions as projects stall across multiple states – Australia’s push to lead the world in green hydrogen is faltering as state governments withdraw support and key projects stall, even as federal investment continues.
• Indonesia Officially Joins New Development Bank: President Prabowo – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has confirmed that Indonesia will join the New Development Bank (NDB), a multilateral development bank established by the BRICS countries in July 2014.
• Apple Says iPhone 16 Series to Be Available in Indonesia From April 11 – Apple’s iPhone 16 series will be available in Indonesia from April 11, it said on Wednesday, after Jakarta lifted a ban on its sale following the company’s more than $300 million investment plan.

Tune In

• For the past few months, the hashtag #KaburAjaDulu has been taking over Indonesian social media. Driven by dreams of a better life and greater opportunities abroad, many overlook the challenges and trade-offs that come with it. In this episode of #KaburAjaDulu, one of our blog editors shares her personal journey—the highs, the lows, and the unexpected realities of living overseas.
• Climate Change is well-recognised as a massive challenge facing society today. It is clear that the political, economic and social consequences of climate change will not be felt equally, not only globally but also across Indonesia. (Talking Indonesia)
• Join Billy Adison Aditijanto and sit down with overseas Indonesians and the Indonesian diaspora to explore what it means to be, well, Indonesians. From international students to first-generation migrants, Indonesian academics to industry players, The Perantau Podcast dives into cross-cultural experiences, diaspora insights, Indonesian culture abroad, and the global Indonesian community. (The Perantau Podcast)
• Ready to future-proof your team? On the new episode of The Katalis Podcast, industry leaders Tim Gilbert, VP International Development, Melbourne Polytechnic, and Devi Ariyani, Executive Director, Indonesia Services Dialogue, share why the new Australian digital training platform, Indonesia-Australia Skills Exchange, is the go-to solution. (Katalis)
• Mas Zac, AIYA Western Australia President, had the honour of interviewing Ibu Listiana Operananta, Indonesian Consulate General in Perth. Check out the full interview here. (Instagram)
• Pelangi Indonesia School, an initiative of the Indonesian-Australian community in New South Wales, began its journey in early 2011 under the organisation Indonesian-Australian Families Association of New South Wales Incorporated (IAFA Inc.). In its operation for more than 10 years, Sekolah Indonesia Pelangi is supported by a number of volunteer teachers who are very dedicated in teaching Indonesian language and culture. (SBS Bahasa Indonesia)
• Australian device helping amputees in Indonesia. Millions of people across the world have had their leg amputated, but not all of them have access to the specialist care needed for a proper prosthetic limb. It’s a problem a team of Melbourne health professionals are addressing. Their new portable device creates casts for prosthetic limbs using only a pressurised water tank. (ABC Listen)

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 FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.
• AIYA SA intends to continue their study session in 2025! Join the study session every Monday at 12.30pm AEDT & every Friday at 12pm AEDT

Opportunities

• Asia Society Australia is proud to partner with the Australian Government to deliver Asian Australian Voices to inject fresh insights and perspectives into the national conversation and policymaking on Australia’s relations with Asia. Deadline is 31 March 2025 11:59 PM!
• Cowater International is seeking a Senior Partnerships Manager for The DFAT-funded Knowledge Partnership Platform (KONEKSI) project. Click here for more information!
• Cowater International is seeking a Communication Manager for The Australia-Indonesia Partnership Towards an Inclusive Society, or INKLUSI. For further information, click here!
• ANU Indonesia Project Student Research Travel Grant applications open! Are you an Australian student researching Indonesia? The ANU Indonesia Project Student Research Travel Grant provides funding to help cover research or travel costs to Indonesia, see here. maximum value of each grant is $3,000. Applications open until April 6th.
• 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!!
• The wait is almost over… Applications for AIMEP 2025 will be opening soon — stay tuned for the official announcement!
• Australia Awards is opening various short course. Check here for more!
  • Strengthening the Higher Education Systems in Indonesia. Apply here by 20 April
  • Building cyber resilience: Managing risks and leveraging opportunities. Apply here by 10 April
  • Grains Value Chain Leadership Program. Apply here before 6 April
• The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is opening various job opportunities. Check here.
• McGregor Casting is looking for Indonesian Boy age 12-16 based in AUS/NZ/INDONESIA to audition for a support role in a feature film. click here for information!
• 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
• Join Prospera talents community and become a part of a thriving network of professionals like you! Sign up today by dropping your CV here and shape the future with Prospera!
• KIAT (Kemitraan Indonesia Australia untuk Infrastruktur) is opening various employment opportunities and current tenders. Find out here. KIAT works with its government partners across Indonesia to deliver a range of large and small projects to improve access to infrastructure for all Indonesians.
• 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: 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.
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organises 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 or 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.