The New Colombo Plan (NCP) is an Australian Government initiative that aims to build Australia’s capability in the Indo-Pacific by supporting Australian undergraduates to undertake study, language training and internships in the region.
It has never been more important for Australians to develop the capabilities to be effective in our region. As the Foreign Minister, Senator the Hon Penny Wong, said in her lecture to the Centre for Asian-Australian Leadership in August 2024, 'Australia’s interests demand we engage in the region more consistently and more deeply'. The Government wants to ensure that NCP participants bring back not just lasting memories, but new skills and capabilities that will broaden our national understanding of our region.
To ensure the next phase of the NCP meets the strategic objective of strengthening the Indo-Pacific capability and literacy of Australians, the Minister for Foreign Affairs announced an External Advisory Group (EAG) chaired by the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Tim Watts MP. The External Advisory Group will consult the sector and other experts on how to ensure the next phase of the New Colombo Plan remains effective and builds the capability of our people.
The EAG has consulted stakeholders and invited formal submissions to inform its work. It is considering this information as it prepares advice to Government on the next phase of the NCP.