Disgraceful gaps have emerged in our knowledge and understanding of Asian countries. This capability is essential to successful navigation of the future, as Peter Varghese and Joseph Lo Bianco have noted.

Whether it is seen as a threat or an opportunity, in recent years China has dominated the rhetoric of politicians and commentators. The shouting match has happily abated. Now is the time to focus on the way forward, to maximise benefits for both sides from a smoother relationship, and to avoid potentially disastrous confrontation. Never has there been more need for in-depth research and understanding of contemporary China, of Chinese culture, and of Chinese perspectives on the world. Its absence is striking.

A 2023 report on the state of teaching and research has revealed a steady decline in expertise in Chinese Studies at all Australian universities. The Australian Academy of the Humanities (AAH) Australia’s China Knowledge Capability revealed that Asian language departments across Australia have declining student enrolments. Language, history, culture, and identity studies have given way to a focus on security. The report deplores the ability of universities to provide input to stakeholders in government and business and calls for a national approach to build up capability.

We should be benefiting from decades of experience in this area. Exchange of teachers and students between Australia and China began fifty years ago. When the Australia China Council was founded in 1978, Australia led the world in efforts to develop and manage bilateral relations. In the 1980s, professional connections........

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