The expansion of trade with Asia and closer relations between the governments of Asian nations and Australia, have helped to change Australian attitudes in recent times. But these changes have taken place partly because many more Australians now undertake the personally enriching experience of studying Asian languages and cultures. Importantly, the more we know and understand about Asia, the better we can explain our own culture and ways to our neighbours, enhancing the reputation and perceptions of Australia in Asia. Study Asia and make a contribution. For a link to the University of Tasmania's 2001 Handbook and details about this course .
China is the largest country in the world in terms of population.
It has had the fastest developing economy for a decade and is expected to become an economic superpower in the new century. What happens in China, home to one fifth of the human race, will inevitably influence global events in the years to come. Chinese is the official language, not only of China, but also of Taiwan, Singapore and Hong Kong. It is spoken by many business people of Chinese descent throughout other parts of Asia. Chinese characters are not only used to write the various dialects like Cantonese, Hokkien and Shanghainess, but also used to be part of the writing systems of Japan, Korea and Vietnam.