About COALAR
The Council on Australia Latin America Relations (COALAR) was established by the Australian Government in 2001 to enhance Australia's economic, political and social relations with Latin America.
The Council's objectives are the achievement of:
- enhanced and strengthened links between Australia and Latin America in the priority areas of business, education, sustainability, tourism and cultural promotion
- a closer engagement between corporate Australia with Latin America
- an increased awareness and understanding of Australia in Latin America, and of Latin America in Australia.
Background to COALAR
The Council on Australia Latin America Relations (COALAR) was formed in response to the Joint Standing Committee of Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade - Trade Sub Committee report, Building Australia's Trade and Investment Relationship with South America (September 2000).
One of the report's recommendations was to 'establish a mechanism with funding to promote initiatives, provide leadership and display commitment to developing the relationship through tangible achievements', through an Australia - South America Foundation.
As a result, COALAR's formation was announced in March 2001 by the then Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.
For more information on the COALAR's functions and objectives see the COALAR Strategic Plan 2024-27 and Charter of the Council on Australia Latin America Relations.
