The Impact Of Australian Foreign Policy On The...

Australian foreign policy has undoubtedly been subject to vast changes over the past century, particularly as a response to the increasing role Asia has played in shaping the contemporary global market. Having identified the importance of multilateralism and regionalism, policy continue to be increasingly focused on our geographical position as part of the Asia-Pacific region, and the relationships with our immediate neighbours, as a means to better achieve stability. The word stability in this context does not simply refer one single aspect, but rather encompasses several different areas which are equally important if we are to continue advancing our country in both a domestic and international sense. There are several key areas of policy†¦show more content†¦The 1997 Asian financial crisis reinforced Australia’s growing economic interdependence within Asia, evident through the assistance given to Indonesia, Thailand, and South Korea to help re-establish their econom ies. Regional dynamics largely shifted as a result, contributing to the demise of the Indonesia Suharto administration, and its subsequent transition to democracy. As Indonesia develops itself as a democratic country, there have been more opportunities for the traditionally different nations of Indonesia and Australia to intertwine, seeing an increase in regional policy and greater collaboration on issues of mutual importance. As Indonesian society continues to transform, so has the national interest in global politics. This has seen an increase in regional and global affairs, triggering a growth in environmental activism, and a greater awareness for implementation of crime prevention and migration strategies. Indonesia has strongly supported the inclusion of Australia in the East Asia Summit (EAS), a conference which examines economic, political, security and environmental issues within the region. Conversely, Indonesian society has benefitted from its increasing ties with Australia, allowing it to better develop a relationship with the United States (a close and powerful ally of Australia). Australia’s relationships with