Vignette 37: The Colombo Plan for Indo-Pacific relations

To foster economic development in the Asia-Pacific region from 1951, the Colombo Plan emerged as a visionary framework. 

One of the Plan’s key initiatives brought South and South-East Asia students to Australia and provided Australia with an economic platform in Asian countries, building a greater community appreciation for diverse cultures.

Today, a New Colombo Plan continues to support this core mission. Launched in 2014, it aims to deepen Australia’s engagement with the IndoPacific by supporting Australian undergraduates studying and interning in the region. 

The University actively participates in the New Colombo Plan, sponsoring up to 15 students for scholarships worth around $70,000. It represents a chance for young Australians to undertake study and work-based opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to the nation’s prosperity and international diplomacy.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Nurturing excellence. p.57