The Prime Minister today launched the Australian Centre on China in the World at the Australian National University (ANU). The Rudd Government will provide a foundation grant of $35 million to establish the Centre and a further $18.1 million to construct a signature building to house it on the ANU campus.
In the Asia-Pacific century, with China's increasing prominence in regional and global affairs, this is an investment in Australia's future.
Through international fellowships, conferences, public events and the media, the Centre will build awareness and understanding within Australia and internationally of China's unfolding global role. It will contribute to a well-informed debate that engages the broader Australian population in a dialogue directly concerning our future.
As a hub for national and international scholars, the Centre will create an integrated, world-leading institution for Chinese studies. It will conduct groundbreaking research and mentor new generations of scholars with deep expertise on China and its global presence.
Nationally and internationally, the ANU is uniquely placed to build on its China-related expertise through a vibrant program of integrated research, education and public engagement.
The Centre will be an independent, prominently branded entity at the ANU. With its far-reaching value as a resource for more than just government and academics, it is anticipated that the business and philanthropic community will provide strong support to the Centre.