Public hearings on strengthening Australia’s Asia capability

THE House of Representatives Standing Committee on Education will hold two public hearings as a part of its inquiry into building Asia capability in Australia through the education system and beyond.

On Monday, April 13,  the committee will hear from community language organisations, language educators, and foreign policy experts to better understand how language and cultural learning builds long-term Asia capability in Australia.

On Tuesday, the public hearing will focus on perspectives from the business community, and examine the skills and capabilities needed to engage effectively with Asian economies. The committee will hear from business leaders and graduates who will discuss the linkages between the education system and successful careers and engagement in the region. 

Committee Chair, Tim Watts MP, said the hearings "will provide valuable insight into how Australia can take a more coordinated and sustained approach to building Asia capability and why this is strategically important".

"These hearings will help the committee understand how education, language skills and community ties can better support Australia’s economic, social and strategic interests," Mr Watts said.

Public hearings

Date: Monday, 13 April 2026
Time: 10.30am – 4.15pm
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra

Date: Tuesday, 14 April 2026
Time: 11.00am – 2.15pm
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra

A program for the public hearing is available on the inquiry website. A live broadcast of the hearing will also be available on the APH website.

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