About COALAR
COALAR plays a pivotal role in enhancing Australia's economic, political and social relations with Latin America.
Established by the Australian Government in 2001, its activities strengthen linkages between Australia and the Latin American region at a business, institutional and people-to-people level.
COALAR directs effort and resources, including an annual grant program, towards priority areas of mutual interest between Australia and Latin America.
COALAR's priority themes for 2024- 2027, as outlined in its strategic plan in alphabetical order:
- Culture and Entrepreneurship
- Education and Research
- Environment and Energy Transition
- First Nations
- Mining, METS, and Resources
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.
