The ambitious Asia Programs of the Australian National University were initiated fifty years ago to support the Australian Government's postwar national re-orientation toward Asia. The application of knowledge about Asia to Government's engagement with the region continues to grow in importance, especially with the election of an Australian government led by a former student of the ANU Faculty of Asian Studies. Our engagement, it is also true to say, is not getting easier. This course involves (a) a brief overview of the development of Australian Government policy toward the Asian region; and (b) an introduction to the practical work of a number of Government departments and organisations in implementing that policy. The course will be of particular interest to students intending to pursue a career in Government and will draw upon the expertise and experience of a range of senior members, and former senior members, of Government departments in Canberra.

On satisfying the requirements for this course, students will have acquired knowledge and skills in an area of particular importance to those intending to enter the Commonwealth Public Service. The course is designed to demonstrate the practical usefulness of Asian Studies knowledge. Professor Milner is the co-editor of three volumes on Australia's engagement with Asia.

Class-related activies (30%), Essay (30%), Research paper (40%). No final exam.

Delivered intensively over three weekends. Contact hours 36, non contact approximately 60.

Fri 14 August (4.30pm to 9.00pm) & Sat 15 August (8.30am to 6.00pm) - Week 32

Fri 21 August (4.30pm to 9.00pm) & Sat 22 August (8.30am to 6.oopm) - Week 33   and

Fri 4 September (4.30pm to 9.00pm) & Sat 5 September (8.30am to 6.00pm) - Week 35

14 university courses (84 units).

Milner, A.C., and Quilty, M., Australia in Asia: Comparing Cultures, Oxford University Press, 1998
This text is out of date, but provides an introduction to key, continuing issues