This report argues that to succeed in the changing strategic environment, Australia needs a deeper understanding of our region's languages, cultures, histories, societies and economies. Asia capability is vital and the report makes 34 recommendations to strengthen it through Australia's education system.

This analysis examines the Philippines as a central test case in the South China Sea contest, where the People’s Republic of China is reshaping the maritime operating environment. The case also matters directly for Australia. Canberra is not a South China Sea claimant, but it depends on open maritime routes and is deepening defence cooperation...

Australia’s strategic anxiety and emphasis on security in the Pacific Islands region have increasingly dominated bilateral affairs in the past decade. This paper argues the result has been a reconfiguration of valued development cooperation, risking a neglect of historical and contemporary reciprocal relations, which in turn can undermine diplomatic trust-building.

Gender equality is central to sustainable development and is a crucial enabler of global security, stability and prosperity, but progress is stagnating or regressing across much of the developing world. This report assesses the current situation and suggests changes to reverse the regression of gender equality in the developing world.

A curated selection of analysis exploring the growing strategic importance of critical minerals, supply chains and industrial capability. A central theme is the role of northern Australia, particularly Darwin, as a strategic platform where energy, infrastructure, logistics and defence posture converge. It examines how Australia and its partners can move from systemic exposure to enduring...