Australia’s global links with China By Hannah McCormack

Historical link 0 Australia has a very long history with China but formal relations only happened recently. The first Chinese consul-General to Australia arrived in 1909, But it wasn’t until 1921 that Australia had a representative in China through a trade commissioner. There is also an organisation called Australia-China council. Also we have increased numbers of both countries visiting each other for either education, business or even just for a holiday.

Trade 0 China is Australia’s biggest trade partner. There has been talk that they are going to cut trade taxes which will help the trade between both countries. This will make importing and exporting between countries cheaper for companies which will mean that trade between the countries will increase dramatically. Most things in Australia from clothes to containers have “made in China” written on it. Australia mostly exports coal and metal, whereas China mainly exports clothing, telecommunications, equipment and components, computers, toys and sporting equipment. 27.3% of Australia’s exports goes to China.

Aid 0 Australia has spent over 1.28 billion Australian dollars to help China out of the third world and improve their country by improving their education facilities, farming practices, industries and trade.

Migration 0 Since the 19 th century Australia’s migration with China has played a role in the economic and political development of the nation. About 1.5% of Australia’s population are Chinese and is continuing to dramatically increase. Mandarin is the second most important language in Australia, coming after English. The large population of Chinese in Australia has also helped increase trade and good relationships between both countries.

Tourism 0 There has been major work behind the scenes by the tourism minister to strengthen the tourism between Australia and China. Chinas tourism to Queensland alone has increased by about 15% in In ,000 travelled to Australia 24% more than the previous year.

Defence Prime Minister announced a strengthening of our bilateral defence links with China through increased defence cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the People’s Liberation Army to build trust, confidence and transparency for the future. Our defence engagement with China aims to improve mutual understanding, communication and to enhance cooperation. Over the years we have strengthened our defence relationship with China through senior level dialogue, educational exchanges, reciprocal naval ship visits and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises.

communication 0 Australia has very good communication with China considering Australia’s Prime Minister Kevin Rudd can speak fluent Mandarin.