Many senior figures in South-East Asian governments and businesses received part of their education in Australia. I cannot stress enough how important these kinds of links are for furthering Australia's interests in the region and enhancing mutual understanding. The marketing success of Australian education has meant, however, that the traffic has been, to some extent, just in the one direction. We would also like to see more Australian students attending tertiary centres throughout the region. If we are to take full advantage of the opportunities emerging in the vibrant Asia-Pacific economy Australians themselves need to be more familiar with our neighbouring cultures and, most importantly, the subtleties of communication in what are very complex societies.
Business certainly works best when there is good communication between the parties involved.
The activities of the International Council on Education Exchange are therefore most welcome. Promoting greater educational interchange between Australia, the Asia Pacific and the rest of the world brings important benefits to Australia and its partners in educational exchange. I commend the Council for recognising that Australia is the place for an Asia-Pacific regional headquarters. I wish you well with your venture. By investing in Australia's booming education sector you are off to a very good start.