CDU EXPERT: Indonesian ambassador’s Darwin lecture offers window into the two countries’ future relationship

08 JULY, 2026  

Who:  Charles Darwin University Associate Vice-Chancellor Indonesia Dr Nathan Franklin 

Topics: 

• East Indonesia and Northern Australia's roles in driving the two countries’ economic cooperation.    
   

• The Australian Government recently committed a $33.2 million budget announcement to strengthen institutional ties between Australia and Indonesia and to increase Indonesian language and country expertise in Australia. 
   

• Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Australia and the Republic of Vanuatu His Excellency Dr Siswo Pramono presentation Towards Indonesia-Australia Economic Powerhouse: Strategic Linkage Between Australia’s Great North and Eastern Part of Indonesia at the Danala | Education and Community Precinct on July 9, from 10am to 12pm.  

Contact details: Call +61 8 8946 6721 or email [email protected] to arrange an interview. 

Quotes attributable to Charles Darwin University Associate Vice-Chancellor Indonesia Dr Nathan Franklin: 

"The health of Australia’s political relationship with Indonesia is dictated by its leaders, but from a social perspective, we have had a long and dependable relationship with our northern neighbours. 

“Economically, geographically, spiritually and socially, the two regions of Northern Australia and Eastern Indonesia are very diverse, and that diversity is one of the pillars of the relationship and its economic potential. 

“Partnerships long outlive the politics of the day. That’s why it is so important to maintain the dialogue and connections between Australia and Indonesia on more fundamental levels.”