We at Asialink as part of the University of Melbourne, recognise that reconciliation is central to the full realisation of our purpose.
We are committed to fostering an environment in which the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their fellow Australians is characterised by a deep mutual respect, leading to positive change in our nation’s culture and capacity.
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I am delighted to introduce the first Asialink Indigenous Development Plan (AIDP).
The AIDP was endorsed by the senior Executive in March 2021 and commits the organisation to a big agenda.
It is an opportunity to reflect on Asialink's contribution to Indigenous development in Australia and to help build national awareness across Arts, Business, Education and Diplomacy.
Research has shown education and awareness to be amongst the most effective ways to break a cycle – we aim to use the expertise and resources of our team to make a sustained contribution to develop knowledge of supporting Indigenous development.
I commend all in the Asialink community who have worked with the University of Melbourne in developing our first Asialink Indigenous Development Plan.
We look forward to achieving the set targets in the coming years, as well supporting the University of Melbourne to achieve the goals of their third Reconciliation Action Plan.
Penny Burtt
Group CEO
Asialink, The University of Melbourne
Reconciliation is central to the full realisation of Asialink’s and the University of Melbourne’s purpose of achieving true cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. For reconciliation to occur, we need to foster an environment in which the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their fellow Australians is characterised by a deep mutual respect, leading to positive change in our nation’s culture and capacity.
Uniquely Australian, Asialink works with diverse communities in Australia and Asia to build a strong, shared future for all. Established in 1990 as a joint initiative of the Australian Government’s Commission for the Future and the Myer Foundation, Asialink is hosted by the University of Melbourne. Asialink works as a cultural enabler, capacity builder, and conduit to the Asia- Pacific, developing Australians’ regional insights, capabilities and connections. Leveraging a legacy of three decades of practical experience, cross-sector relationships, and trusted connections, Asialink contributes to the University of Melbourne's international engagement, global networks and international strategy.
The Asialink Reconciliation Working Group aims to create positive social change and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people building on the University’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
Being able to travel to India in 2019 as a part of the Asialink Arts program has had an impact on my business in so many ways! We have been able to connect with like-minded First Peoples and ethnic minorities across cultures, and discuss ideas and potential projects that speak to our shared experiences of colonised peoples regaining our strength through artistic diplomacy. Watch this space!
– Mikaela Jade, Cabrogal woman and Founder and CEO of Indigital, Australia's first Indigenous Edu-tech company
Thank you to Asialink for the opportunity to be part of the Leaders program and to be announced as the First Nations Fellowship recipient for 2021. Through the Asialink Leaders Program, I am looking forward to strengthening my Asia capability and using my networks to enhance connections between Indigenous cultures in Australia and cultures in Asia to help increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation and tell our story and shared learnings with the Indo-Pacific region.
– Brenton Garlick, Kamilaroi man and Manager of Engagement and Development, Strategic Engagement, Northern Territory Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade
