A think tank for research into American political, economic and cultural issues will be based at Sydney University’s main campus and in the Sydney CBD. The announcement was made in late 2006 by Mr. Malcolm Binks, chairman of the American Australian Association, at a dinner attended by PM Howard and Rupert Murdoch.
The Commonwealth Government has pledged $25 million. Additional funds have been raised from business and private individuals in Australia and the USA.
Cockatoo members are examining the possibility of a network of development hubs in certain cities in northern Australia and the Pacific Islands. The Australian Government’s White Paper on Aid (early 2006) talked a lot about the need for economic development, supply chains etc.
The OECD has expressed interest. Progress with AusAID and USAID has however been painfully slow. Perhaps the US Studies Centre can trigger some interest. Contact the editor for more details.
Tags: Region - Asia Pacific
