THE Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam has enjoyed friendly and warm relations with the Brunei Government, private sector and community for more than 30 years and I am honoured to have the opportunity to continue to build on this friendship.
Our countries’ long history of educational and academic exchanges underpins a diverse and robust relationship. Australia remains a popular study destination for Bruneians at all stages of their education, which ensures that we have a thriving alumni community.
Thanks to the New Colombo Plan an increasing number of Australian students are also now studying and learning in Brunei – deepening the cross cultural understanding between us.
As Brunei’s neighbour in the Asia-Pacific, Australia is invested in the stability and growth of our region. We are pleased to work closely with Brunei in regional organisations, including the Asean Regional Forum and the East Asia Summit (EAS), to address the challenges and seize the opportunities present in this dynamic region.
Through agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), our countries will work together to advance economic integration and cooperation.
Australia and Brunei are also bonded by a profound shared history built upon Borneo’s liberation by Australian forces at the conclusion of World War II.
Today our Defence relationship remains strong, cultivated through regular military exercises, policy consultations, training and capacity building, and cooperation in regional and multilateral forums.
In continuing to build our countries’ relations we also understand the importance of community outreach and civil society engagement.
The High Commission strives to deliver programmes in culture, sport and the arts, working with local schools and community groups to promote cross cultural understanding.
The Australian Community in Brunei is also a valuable contributor to the close ties our two countries enjoy. The High Commission appreciates their contribution to the relationship, and remains committed to providing professional and courteous consular services to our citizens.
I look forward to engaging with government, business, civil society and community organisations across Brunei to further deepen my understanding of and appreciation for the diversity and strength of this beautiful country.
My husband, daughter and I look forward to spending the next few years meeting as many of you as possible.
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