Indonesian master puppeteer Sumardi will bring the UNESCO-inscribed tradition of Wayang, Indonesia’s traditional shadow puppet theatre, to Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands this October, reconnecting Australian communities with an art form once embedded in its cultural life. [AIYA Blog]

In The News:

• AIYA NTT’s Have a Go Day was recently featured by TVRI NTT (TVRI Nasional) highlighting the growing interest in Australian Rules Football in Nusa Tenggara Timur. As part of AIYA’s broader youth engagement initiatives, the Have a Go Day provides an opportunity for young people in Indonesia to experience Aussie Rules Football while learning more about contemporary Australian culture. The initiative, which includes our chapters in Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, Bali, South Sulawesi, East Java, and NTT, contributes to building connections between Indonesia and Australia. [AIYA National]
• Who Is Arrmanatha Nasir, Indonesia’s New Foreign Minister? –  Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir has been appointed as Indonesia’s new Foreign Minister, replacing Sugiono. He was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto at the State Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, October 1, 2026. Arrmanatha, a career diplomat at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, previously served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs since October 2024. [Tempo.co]
• Qantas Group swoops on additional seat capacity to Indonesia – In September, the Australian Government announced that an additional 5,000 seats per week would be available to each country’s carriers on the Australia – Indonesia country pair following an update to the air services agreement between the two countries. [Aero South Pacific]
• Australia Inflation Hits 4% in August, Highest Since 2023 – Australia’s annual inflation rate rose to 4 percent in August, according to official data released Wednesday, September 30. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) said the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 4 percent in the 12 months to August, up from 3.5 percent in July. [Tempo.co]
• Indonesia’s Toy Export Jumps to $351.8 Million – Indonesia’s toy exports soared to $351.8 million in the first half of 2026, the government announced on Monday, with the US being a top buyer. This marked an increase compared to the $297.7 million export seen in the same six-month period last year. Reni Yanita, a senior official at the Industry Ministry, named the US and the UK as the top export destinations. [Jakarta Globe]
• Australian Dollar vs Indonesian Rupiah edges higher as technical buying emerges in oversold conditions – Technical forces have sparked a modest bounce in Australian Dollar vs Indonesian Rupiah (AUD/IDR) today, as short-term buying interest emerged in an oversold environment. The move looks limited, with the pair still trading below its 20-day and 50-day moving averages. [Traders Union]
• Program BRIDGE Indonesia-Australia Bahas Perubahan Iklim dan Pendidikan – Lebih dari 40 perwakilan pemerintah Indonesia dari berbagai wilayah bersama para pendidik dari Program Kemitraan Sekolah BRIDGE Australia-Indonesia berkumpul di Kedutaan Besar Australia di Jakarta untuk menghadiri Pertemuan Pemangku Kepentingan Pendidikan BRIDGE tahunan pada Rabu, 30 September 2026. [MetroNews]
  
  

Events:

• Slow down with wax and dye. Join AIYA South Australia for hands-on traditional batik-making and sip jamu, a traditional Indonesian herbal tonic. Open to all, whether you have artsy hands or just curious minds, and bring home a piece of batik you make. 🗓️ Friday, 16 October 2026 ⏰ 4:00–5:30 PM 📍 City West, Dorrit Black. DB6-20 Spots are limited, Register here.
• Cultural Exchange Night is coming with AIYA South Australia 🇮🇩🇦🇺 No speeches, no pressure, just a relaxed evening of good company and getting to know each other across cultures. Enjoy a free Indonesian dinner, snacks, music, and Indonesian games. No experience needed, we’ll teach you! Come by yourself or bring a friend, everyone’s welcome. 📅 16 October 2026 🕖 6 – 8 pm 📍 Adelaide University (TBC). For more information click here.
• AIYA New South Wales proudly present MALAM KARIER: Future-proofing Your Career Between Australia and Indonesia 🦘🇮🇩 How do you build a future-ready career, and what opportunities exist across the Australia–Indonesia professional landscape? Save the date: Friday, 9 October 2026 ⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM 📍 180 George Street Community Space, Sydney. Click here for more information!
• Looking for a new way to active? Join AIYA Sulawesi Selatan for Footy Day in Makassar! Bring your energy,meet new people, build connections, and experience Australian football. Save the details 📅 Saturday, 10 October 2026  ⏰ 16:00 – 18:00 WITA📍 Lapangan Sepak Bola Unhas. Click here for registration!
• Trying to build your career in Australia? Got a CV but not getting interviews? 📄 LinkedIn profile but not sure whether it actually stands out? 🔗 Not sure how to turn your uni, Indonesian, volunteer or part-time experience into something employers value? 💼 Let’s work on it. 🇦🇺🇮🇩 AIYA Victoria × Mia Rosmiati presents 🎓 From Survival Job to Career in Australia. This isn’t just a workshop where you sit and listen. 👉 Bring your CV. Open your LinkedIn. Bring your questions. Click here for registration.
• You are invited to the 11th ReelOzInd! The Festival Premiere screenings to be held in Melbourne and Makassar! We are proud to be celebrating 10 years of Australian and Indonesian filmmakers and audiences coming together to share their stories. Save the date: Thursday, October 22  •  6:30 PM – 8:30 PM @ACMI Melbourne, VIC. Check this for registration and ticketing!
• Join AIYA Victoria for Badminton Social! Save the date 3 October @Monash Sport, Monash Caulfield, Victoria. Check AIYA Victoria Instagram for more information and registration!
• AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Tuesday 6-8pm in Room 521 (behind the Recording Studio), Level 5 of the Llewellyn Hall at the ANU. For more information click here!
• JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you! VIC – every Wednesday at 6-7pm, Kathleen Syme Library–Activity Room 2; NSW – every Thursday at 6.30pm, Darling Square.
• AIYA FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.

Tune In:

• 🌱 What can we learn from climate change studies in Australia to address environmental challenges in Indonesia? In Episode 29 of the #OzAlum Podcast, host Fitrah Ningsih talks with Australia Awards alumna Saraswati Siahaan about her experience pursuing a Masters in Climate Change at ANU and how it shaped her perspective on addressing climate and environmental challenges. Saras shares how her studies in Australia broadened her perspective on climate change and how she applies the knowledge and skills she gained to her work on climate change and sustainability in Indonesia. This episode also discusses the climate and environmental challenges facing Indonesia, practical steps we can take in our daily lives, and opportunities for young people who want to contribute to climate action and sustainability. 🎧 Listen in full to learn how the knowledge and experience gained in Australia can be applied to concrete actions to address climate change in Indonesia.
• Melalui perpaduan seni, budaya, dan kuliner, Bali Festival 2026 di Springvale City Hall Victoria, menjadi sarana untuk mempererat hubungan antarkomunitas sekaligus merayakan keberagaman dan identitas budaya Indonesia di Australia. Pada Minggu, 4 Oktober 2026, Bali Festival 2026 yang diselenggarakan dalam rangka merayakan 45 tahun berdirinya Perhimpunan Warga Indonesia di Victoria (Perwira) yang sukses menghadirkan semarak budaya Indonesia di Springvale City Hall, Victoria, Australia. Acara ini menjadi wadah bagi masyarakat Indonesia dan Australia untuk berkumpul, menikmati pertunjukan seni, serta merayakan kekayaan budaya Nusantara dalam suasana yang penuh kehangatan dan kebersamaan. Dengarkan lebih lanjut di SBS Indonesia pada episode Bali Festival 2026 Hadirkan Kekayaan Seni, Budaya, dan Kuliner Indonesia

Opportunities & Offers:

Get Out There: A Meaningful Adventure for School Leavers Looking for an alternative to the typical schoolies week? Get Out There takes Australian school leavers on a two-week adventure through Indonesia, combining travel, purpose, and genuine cultural connection.

AIYA is now in partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

• Looking to sharpen your design and collaboration skills this season? Canva is hosting a series of free online webinars from October to November as part of the Canva World Tour, perfect for AIYA committee members and volunteers looking to upskill! Highlights include Nonprofits – The Basics of Layout on Tuesday, 6 October (5:00–6:00 PM WIB / 9:00–10:00 PM AEDT; register here), Helping Partnerships Teams Do More with Canva on Tuesday, 27 October (8:30–9:00 AM WIB / 12:30–1:00 PM AEDT; register here), and Resourcing Advocates and Volunteers with Canva on Tuesday, 10 November (8:30–9:00 AM WIB / 12:30–1:00 PM AEDT; register here). Be sure to register for these insightful sessions or explore the full Canva World Tour event schedule to find the right topic for your team role!
• The Lowy Institute is looking for a Program Director to lead our China and East Asia Program. This is a senior research leadership role, responsible for setting the analytical direction of our work on China and its immediate neighbourhood. You’ll produce original research, oversee events and outreach, and represent the Institute across government, media, and the corporate sector. More information click here.
• AIBC National Conference 2026 | Perth, WA (7–9 October 2026). Join business leaders, government representatives, and industry experts in Perth for the Australia-Indonesia Business Council (AIBC) National Conference 2026. Explore key developments in bilateral trade, ASEAN economic engagement, and market growth. 🎟️ Member Perks: Active AIYA members enjoy exclusive discount rates and access to complimentary tickets! Log in to your member account to claim your registration discount and secure your ticket today.
• Applications are now open for the NBCUniversal Australia & New Zealand (ANZ) 2027 Internship Program, offering students and emerging talent the opportunity to gain hands-on experience inside one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. Find more informations here!
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
• The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
• Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
• The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
• The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
• The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) has published Experiencing Indonesia: 30 Years of ACICIS. The volume charts the institutional history of ACICIS alongside the development, innovation, and impact of its programs, while sharing personal reflections from alumni, staff members, and partners across Australia and Indonesia. Together, the contributors offer diverse perspectives on the significance and lasting impact of ACICIS programs. The book is now available to download from ANU Press.

In the News:

• Trump administration confirms new 12.5 per cent tariff for Australia – Five months after a court struck down many of Donald Trump’s tariffs, the US has announced a suite of new imposts for all of its major trading partners. Australia has been hit with a 12.5 per cent tariff, while some countries have a 10 per cent tariff. [ABC News]
• How Indonesia Responds to New 10 Pct US Import Tariff – The United States government has imposed a new 10 percent additional import tariff on 60 trading partner nations, including Indonesia, effective July 24, 2026, amid an ongoing trade investigation by Washington. The Indonesian government, meanwhile, continues to lobby Washington to secure more competitive tariff rates for its exports. [Tempo English]
• Albanese flags new fuel announcements as petrol prices tipped to spike further – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says his government is not planning to extend the fuel excise discount but has foreshadowed there will be further announcements on fuel in the coming days. [SBS]
• Why a siren is set to blare from your mobile – At 2pm AEST on Monday 27th July an emergency siren will sound on just about every mobile phone in Australia. It’s called AusAlert and the new emergency system is being tested ahead of its potential use during times of crisis across Australia. [ABC News]
• Presiden Prabowo bentuk Universitas Republik Indonesia – Apa urgensinya? – Pembentukan Universitas Republik Indonesia “tidak ada urgensinya”, menurut sejumlah pakar pendidikan. Alasannya, fungsi melatih aparatur sipil negara dan para pejabat pemerintah selama ini telah dijalankan Lembaga Administrasi Negara dan Lembaga Ketahanan Nasional. [BBC]
• BRIN Researcher Warns 2026 El Nino Stronger Than 2023 – Researcher at the Climate and Atmosphere Research Center of the Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Erma Yulihastin, presented this data on Saturday, July 25, 2026. She quoted, among others, from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). “It is clear and proven that El Nino 2026 is stronger than 2023,” she said. [Tempo English]
• Immigration Probes Dutch Nationals over Bali Running Event – The Directorate General of Immigration at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights is launching an investigation into a running event in Bali that barred local residents from participating. Authorities suspect the event was organized by two Dutch nationals. [Tempo English]
• Sydney house prices falling in ‘premium locations’, but rising in historically affordable outer suburbs – The downturn of Sydney’s house and unit prices are “less likely” to impact first home buyers, a residential economist says. Data released by Domain shows the city recorded the lowest drop in the country, but mainly in “premium locations”. A real estate agent in a traditionally affordable area of Sydney’s west says buyer confidence is at “an all-time low”. [ABC News]
• Persija Jakarta Backs Shin Tae-yong Despite KFA Sanction – Persija Jakarta football club remains committed to supporting coach Shin Tae-yong, who was sanctioned by the Korea Football Association (KFA) following an incident of physical violence while managing South Korean club Ulsan HD. [Tempo English]

Events:

• Are you interested in Indonesian foreign policy or curious about the Australia–Indonesia relationship? AIYA ACT and the ANU Indonesia Institute have the event for you! Testing Indonesia’s Bebas-Aktif Foreign Policy in a World of Instability will bring together four experts on the Australia–Indonesia relationship to discuss how Indonesia’s longstanding Bebas-Aktif (free and active) foreign policy is applied in today’s diplomatic landscape. Join the discussion on 29 July 2026. More information is available here.
• BBTS UWA x AAYA x AIYA present… “Pearls x Professionals: Careers in Asia Expo”!! On Thursday 30 July at UWA. Find out more here.
• AIYA Queensland is excited to invite you to Trivia 100: Indo-Aussie Trivia & Social Night—a fun evening of friendly competition, Indonesian snacks, and new connections. Click here for more information and join the fun on 3 August 2026!
• Join us as we relaunch the AIYA South Australia Chapter on 7 August 2026! Meet our new committee, learn about our vision, connect with the community, and enjoy an authentic Indonesian early dinner. Click here for more information.
• Join us to celebrate Experiencing Indonesia: 30 years of ACICIS Book Launch! This event will feature Kirrilee Hughes, Kate Naidu, and David Reeve in conversation with Dr Natali Pearson. Save the date: Wednesday 12 August 2026, 5.30-7.30pm at Level 24, 123 Pitt St, Sidney. For more information and registration click here.
• Asialink and the Asia Institute present the 2026 Southeast Asia Oration at the University of Melbourne, with support from the ASEAN-Australia Centre. Held annually, the oration invites a leading voice to discuss the evolving political, social, and economic landscape of Southeast Asia.
• This year’s speaker is Professor Sri Mulyani Indrawati, one of Indonesia’s longest-serving Ministers of Finance. Her oration, Governing for Growth: Democracy and Development in Southeast Asian Countries, will explore how Southeast Asian nations are balancing economic growth with democratic governance. Click here and join the discussion.
• After a short break following its 2025 festival season, NONGKRONG is going on tour, bringing some of its signature events to Melbourne, Sydney, and Darwin throughout August. Expect an exciting program featuring Indonesian performances, food pop-ups, and interactive workshops. Event announcements will be released over the coming week, so keep an eye on NONGKRONG’s social media for updates.
• The Indonesian film Para Perasuk will be screened at the Taiwan Film Festival in Melbourne on Sunday, 30 August. Click here for more information.
• ANU Indonesia Project – We are delighted to announce that registration is now open for the 43rd Indonesia Update, ‘Islamic diversity in Indonesia’, to be held on 18-19 September 2026 at The Australian National University. More Info here.
• AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
• JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you! VIC – every Wednesday at 6-7pm, Kathleen Syme Library–Activity Room 2; NSW – every Thursday at 6.30pm, Darling Square.
• AIYA FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.

Tune In:

• A total of 8,178 students from Universitas Gadjah Mada are currently participating in the university’s Community Service Program (KKN). Deployed across 298 locations in 32 provinces throughout Indonesia, the program demonstrates the vital role universities play in supporting and empowering local communities. Listen to the full story here.

Opportunities:

AIYA is now in partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

• NAILA 2026 is now open for submission! Ready to put your Indonesian language skills to the test? Join the competition, showcase your talent, and compete for exciting prizes! Deadline: 30 July 2026. Register yourself here!
• The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here.
  The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
• The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
• Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
• The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
• The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
• The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.

For Hillary Mansour, one small word “Kamu” unlocked friendships, cultural immersion, and a deeper sense of belonging during her ACICIS exchange in Yogyakarta.
(AIYA Blog)

In the News

• Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Produk Halal, BPJPH) and the Australian Embassy in Indonesia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on halal product assurance cooperation, to support and streamline trade in halal‑certified goods between the two countries. (Australia Embassy in Indonesia)
• PEMERINTAH Indonesia dan Australia secara resmi meluncurkan Katalis 2.0, sebuah inisiatif strategis yang dirancang untuk memperdalam kemitraan ekonomi di bawah kerangka Perjanjian Kemitraan Ekonomi Komprehensif Indonesia-Australia (IA-CEPA). (Media Indonesia)
• Indonesia’s Air Force has deployed five T-50i Golden Eagle fighter jets to a multinational air exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force in Darwin from July 17 to August 7, aiming to strengthen operational capabilities and international defense ties. (ANTARA News)
• Australia has agreed to replace the annual scramble for Indonesia’s Working Holiday Visa with a randomised ballot. (RACC Indonesia)
• Pemerintah Indonesia bersama Pemerintah Australia resmi meluncurkan program kemitraan KITA SEHAT (Indonesia–Australia Health Transformation Partnership) senilai hingga AUD100 juta. (Kemenkes Indonesia)

Events

• JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • VIC – every Wednesday at 6-7pm, Kathleen Syme Library–Activity Room 2.
  • NSW – every Thursday at 6.30pm, Darling Square.
• AIYA FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.
• AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
• Be Your Own Detective: Movie & Mystery Games 🐑🔍 Join AIYA SA × Arab Club for an exciting and interactive movie experience where you step into the role of a detective! 🎬 Hosted Saturday 25 July at Adelaide Uni. Find out more here.
• Join AIYA SulSel on Sat, 25 July for AIYA Networking Night: A night to connect, exchange ideas, and sprak meaningful conversations. Find out more here.
• Let’s do a meaningful morning with AIYA Queensland and Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA), “SEA to Source : Beach Clean Up”, 21 July, 9.30am AEST, at Pandanus Beach. Slot limited only for AIYA Member, register here no cost!
• BBTS UWA x AAYA x AIYA present “Pearls x Professionals: Careers in Asia Expo” on 30 July at UWA. Find out more here.
• Join us to celebrate Experiencing Indonesia: 30 years of ACICIS Book Launch! This event will feature Kirrilee Hughes, Kate Naidu, and David Reeve in conversation with Dr Natali Pearson. Save the date: Wed, 12 Aug, @5.30-7.30pm at Level 24, 123 Pitt St, Sidney. For more information and registration click here.
• ANU Indonesia Project – We are delighted to announce that registration is now open for the 43rd Indonesia Update, ‘Islamic diversity in Indonesia’, to be held on 18-19 September 2026 at The Australian National University. More Info here.

Tune In

• The problem of Australian knowing and engaging Indonesia, as our closest neighbour, has vexed successive Australia governments ever since Keating called for Asian literacy in the 1980s.Liam Prince, Director of the ACICIS program based at the University of Western Australia talking about the future of Australia’s Asia and Indonesia capabilities. (Talking Indonesia)
• Keeping the Spirit of Indonesia Alive Through Balinese Dance – Liza Saerang, committed to keeping Indonesia’s cultural heritage alive, even though she is thousands of kilometers away from the homeland. (SBS Indonesia)

Opportunities

AIYA is now in partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

• NAILA 2026 is now open for submission! Ready to put your Indonesian language skills to the test? Join the competition, showcase your talent, and compete for exciting prizes! Deadline: 30 July 2026. Register yourself here!
• The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here.
  The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
• The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
• Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
• The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
• The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
• The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.

Three Decades of ACICIS Celebrated in New Book Highlighting Australia’s Indonesia Connection – At a time when Australia is once again debating how to strengthen its engagement with Asia, the launch of a new book celebrating three decades of the Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) provides a timely reminder that some of the country’s most effective diplomacy happens not in government buildings, but in classrooms, communities and everyday human connections.
[The Koala]

In the News:

• Biaya Visa Australia Naik hingga 3 Kali Lipat per Juli 2026, Ini Rinciannya – Biaya visa Australia mengalami kenaikan mulai Rabu (1/7/2026). Aturan ini berlaku untuk semua jenis visa dengan tarif bervariasi, bahkan ada yang naik hingga tiga kali lipat. [Kompas.com]
• Indonesia Denies State-Decreed LGBTQ Discrimination: What’s the Truth? – While the Indonesian government designated the spread of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) culture as a “non-military threat” under Presidential Regulation 111/2025, the government denied that it is aimed to discriminate against LGBTQ individuals. [Tempo English]
• India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto sealed a major defense deal on Tuesday, allowing Jakarta to acquire the Indian BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles. [ABC News]
• Young Indonesians fear for future after startup founder jailed – Indonesia’s booming technology and creative industries have inspired a new generation of young talent eager to help shape the country’s future. But last week’s 10-year prison sentence for tech entrepreneur Nadiem Makarim in a corruption case has left some questioning whether their efforts to create change will be supported or punished. [ABC News]
• Indonesia Pushes for Stronger Food Cooperation with Australia – Indonesia is pushing for a strengthened cooperation with Australia in the food and infrastructure sectors through the Indonesia–Australia Business Summit (IABS) for Indonesia Updates 2026. This meeting was part of the efforts to bolster strategic economic partnerships between both countries while offering investments in priority sectors. [Tempo.co]
• Australia to ditch paper arrival cards for incoming travellers – The Albanese government has announced it will roll out digital passenger cards to all Australian international airports and seaports after a “successful” trial on Qantas flights into Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. [The Guardian]
• Vibes Music Australia has announced a major expansion across Southeast Asia following a successful regional visit by its Founder, Chief Executive Officer and Artist & Repertoire (A&R), Gerard Lasantha (Lopez), to Thailand and Cambodia, while strengthening the company’s existing investment in Indonesia. [EIN Presswire]

Events:

• Be Your Own Detective: Movie & Mystery Games 🐑🔍 Join AIYA SA × Arab Club for an exciting and interactive movie experience where you step into the role of a detective! 🎬 Hosted Saturday 25 July at Adelaide Uni. Find out more here.
• Join AIYA SulSel on Saturday 25 July for AIYA Networking Night: A night to connect, exchange ideas, and sprak meaningful conversations. Find out more here.
• BBTS UWA x AAYA x AIYA present… “Pearls x Professionals: Careers in Asia Expo”!! On Thursday 30 July at UWA. Find out more here.
• Join us to celebrate Experiencing Indonesia: 30 years of ACICIS Book Launch! This event will feature Kirrilee Hughes, Kate Naidu, and David Reeve in conversation with Dr Natali Pearson. Save the date: Wednesday 12 August 2026, 5.30-7.30pm at Level 24, 123 Pitt St, Sidney. For more information and registration click here.
• AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
• JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • VIC – every Wednesday at 6-7pm, Kathleen Syme Library–Activity Room 2.
  • NSW – every Thursday at 6.30pm, Darling Square.
• AIYA FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.
• ANU Indonesia Project – We are delighted to announce that registration is now open for the 43rd Indonesia Update, ‘Islamic diversity in Indonesia’, to be held on 18-19 September 2026 at The Australian National University. More Info here.

Tune In:

• Tarsius adalah satwa eksotik dari Sulawesi, yang ukurannya sangat kecil dan disebut sebagai primata paling kecil di dunia. Ukurannya kira-kira sebesar mouse atau tetikus yang biasa digunakan di komputer. Satwa ini adalah satwa endemik di Sulawesi. Tarsius memakan serangga dan dianggap penting dalam ekosistem, karena itulah banyak pihak berusaha untuk melestarikannya. Salah satunya adalah Yayasan Tarsius Celebes Indonesia. Dengarkan lebih lanjut terkait peran penting Tarsius dalam ekosistem oleh Taufik Dhani selaku Ketua yayasan Tarsius Celebes Indonesia.
• Di antara beragam profesi yang ditekuni diaspora Indonesia di Australia, Belinda Hadiwidjaja memilih jalur yang unik: menjadi pelatih dan penghibur sepatu roda profesional. Melalui bisnisnya, Princess on Skates, perempuan asal Jakarta ini menyelenggarakan kelas sepatu roda untuk anak-anak dan orang dewasa, mengisi acara pesta ulang tahun dengan kostum karakter fiksi, dan menggelar roller disco di Melbourne. Dengarkan lebih lanjut kisah Belinda melalui SBS Bahasa Indonesia.

Opportunities:

AIYA is now in partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

• NAILA 2026 is now open for submission! Ready to put your Indonesian language skills to the test? Join the competition, showcase your talent, and compete for exciting prizes! Deadline: 30 July 2026. Register yourself here!
• The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here.
  The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
• The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
• Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
• The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
• The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
• The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.

Indonesia Busts 59 Drug Rings in Year-Long Law Enforcement Crackdown
Indonesia’s anti-narcotics agency, working with the military and police, dismantled 59 drug trafficking networks over the past year, including seven international syndicates and intercepted more than 200 tons of illegal narcotics with an estimated street value of Rp29 trillion. [ANTARA]

In the News:

• Indonesia Foils Attempted Wildlife Smuggling to Oman at Soekarno-Hatta Airport – Forestry investigators thwarted an international wildlife smuggling attempt at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, rescuing an endangered Javan gibbon and a rare three-colored monitor lizard bound for Oman.[RRI]
• Indonesia Edges India to Secure AVC Cup 2026 Final Sport – The Indonesian men’s national volleyball team defeated host India in a dramatic 3-2 semifinal victory at the AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup in Ahmedabad, securing Indonesia’s first-ever berth in the final. [RRI]
• Australia Toughens Kids’ Social Media Ban, Doubles Potential Penalties for Tech Firms – Australia announced it would double the maximum penalty for tech firms that fail to uphold the world-first social media ban for children under 16, raising the fine to A$99 million (from A$49.5 million). [MalayMail]
• Australia’s NSW Boosts Shark Surveillance After Sydney Beach Attack – The New South Wales government will invest an additional A$34 million to expand shark-spotting drone surveillance following a serious attack at Coogee Beach earlier this month.[Xinhua]
• Indonesia, Australia deepen border security cooperation – Indonesia and Australia agreed to strengthen regional border security cooperation through closer intelligence sharing, immigration coordination and cybersecurity initiatives during an ASEAN-Australia consultation in Cambodia, Indonesia’s immigration chief said. [ANTARA]
  

Events:

• NAILA 2026 is now open for submission! Ready to put your Indonesian language skills to the test? Join the competition, showcase your talent, and compete for exciting prizes! Deadline: 30 July 2026. Register yourself here!
• AIYA ACT – Come and try playing Javanese Gamelan with AIYA ACT and ANUISA every Monday, @5.30pm in Room 630, Level 6 of the Llewellyn Hall at ANU.
• JOIN AIYA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE (IN-PERSON or ONLINE!) LX is back in multiple locations across Australia. Connect, chill, and converse with like-minded youth, meet new friends and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Make sure to follow your local chapter on Instagram for updates on the next LX event near you!
  • VIC – every Wednesday at 6-7pm, Kathleen Syme Library–Activity Room 2.
  • NSW – every Thursday at 6.30pm, Darling Square.
  • WA – June 04 at 6.30PM
• AIYA FLEX! – our online language exchange is open to anyone with any level of Indonesian and English! It is held monthly on Sunday at 3pm WIB/ 7pm AEDT. Join FLEX here.
• ANU Indonesia Project – We are delighted to announce that registration is now open for the 43rd Indonesia Update, ‘Islamic diversity in Indonesia’, to be held on 18-19 September 2026 at The Australian National University. More Info here.

Tune In:

• Angelia Hutabarat, an Indonesian citizen who has lived in Mexico for nearly a decade, shares her journey of becoming a 2026 FIFA World Cup volunteer. From a selection process that nearly discouraged her to finally being accepted as a VIP Guest Services officer at one of FIFA’s official hotels in Mexico City, Angelia met football legends such as Ronaldo, Roberto Baggio, and Andrea Bocelli. She also recounts how her family, including her parents also registered as volunteers. This episode is presented by ITSMe Podcast from Sentul, Bogor.
• The weekly SBS Indonesian program for Friday, June 26, 2026 delivers the latest news on Australia and Indonesia, including exclusive 2026 World Cup coverage broadcast live and free through SBS. Hosted by Rachel Priskila, this episode also explores various events impacting the Indonesian-speaking community in Australia, ranging from immigration issues to cultural celebrations.

Opportunities:

AIYA is now in partnership: AIYA x Cinta Bahasa! 🎉🤝
All AIYA members can now enjoy 15% off Cinta Bahasa’s online or in-person Indonesian language classes! To register, simply log in to your AIYA membership dashboard > Resource Center > Cinta Bahasa.

• Gamelan DanAnda -a Balinese gamelan community orchestra and arts organisation- is recruiting a volunteer Treasurer. The ideal candidate will be someone passionate about traditional multicultural arts practice with a strong financial management/governance background. Click here for more information.
• Join Monash Indonesian Holiday Program! This two days of activities dedicated to enhancing Indonesian language skills and providing immersive experience in Indonesian culture. Dates and times: July 2 and 3, 2026, 9.30am – 3.30 pm. Location: Rooms 303 and 304, Monash Learning and Teaching Building (adjacent to the Bus Loop), Monash Clayton Campus. Click here for more information!
• The Global Scholars Club is a new community helping underrepresented young people access international opportunities by sharing real stories, free resources, and practical insights from past scholars. We publish reflections and guides on our Substack – you can check it out here.
  The founder, Billy Blackett, is particularly passionate about Indonesia, having participated in the Australian Indonesian Youth Exchange Program. He shares regular updates on opportunities and reflections via LinkedIn, and is always happy to field questions or provide application support as a Rhodes Scholar and alumnus of NCP and AIYEP. Connect with Billy for more insight!
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is looking for several positions to fill with various closing dates. Click here for more information!
• The Australian Volunteers Program matches skilled Australians with partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to support them to achieve their own development goals. If you’re interested in volunteering check-out a range of opportunities here!!
• Indo Beyond Borders (IBB) is an Indonesian tutoring service, where language learning goes beyond the textbook. Join IBB and embark on an immersive learning experience that’s as dynamic and vibrant as Indonesia itself. Here to check more information
• The Jakarta Bintangs is an Australian Football Club with membership open to anyone, beginners are most welcome. The club organizes games throughout the year, mostly in Jakarta, with occasional games across Indonesia and overseas. Tours are planned to Bali, Batam, Vietnam and Thailand this year. Training is mostly held at Lapangan Bola Aldiron in Jakarta on Saturday/ Sunday afternoons. On occasion, training sessions are also held Thursday nights in the GBK complex. To keep up to date with the training schedule follow them on Instagram @jakartabintangs. For more information click here.
• The Australian Government is receiving applications for the Working Holiday Maker program that allows young adults to have a 12 month holiday, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. More info here
• The Australian National University Indonesia Project is offering a number of grants and fellowships. Find out more about the opportunities such as Collaborative Research Grants, and Visiting Fellow Grants.
• The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Find a list of available vacancies here.