Perspectives:Asia | Australia’s pivot to India | Griffith Asia Insights

PERSPECTIVES:ASIA | ANDREW CHARLTON |

India is on the rise to become the next global superpower, with a population expected to be larger than the United States and China combined by 2050. For Australia, India has emerged as a new partner offering hope for a more secure and balanced region. The rapidly growing Indian diaspora is estimated to soon become the largest migrant group in the nation. “Australia’s Pivot to India” celebrates the contribution of Indian Australians to our community and our nation.

In our recent Perspectives:Asia lecture, Dr Andrew Charlton, Member of Parliament for Parramatta, provided a comprehensive analysis of the evolving dynamics between Australia and India. Andrew begins by contextualising India’s contemporary rise, projecting it as a potential global superpower. He underlines India’s demographic and economic prowess, predicting its population to surpass that of the United States and China combined by 2050.

The book emphasises the transformative impact of India on Australia, especially through the lens of the rapidly growing Indian diaspora. Andrew points out that this community, expected to become the largest migrant group in Australia, is making significant contributions to the nation.

Historical ties between India and Australia form a crucial backdrop to Andrew’s narrative. He traces geological connections between the Darling Ranges in Western Australia and the Nilgiri Mountains in South India, illustrating the ancient Gondwana land link. Additionally, he highlights collaborative efforts during significant historical events, such as the Gallipoli campaign, where Australians and Indians fought together.

The work delves into the complexities that hindered a robust Australia-India relationship. Andrew identifies political neglect as a significant factor, citing a lack of consistent interest and follow-through by Australian leaders. He references quotes from experts like Alan Ginel, who characterise Australia’s intermittent focus on India as a pattern of rediscovery followed by forgetfulness.

Bilateral frictions, primarily revolving around issues of race and security, are explored as another challenge. He discusses incidents like the attacks on Indian students in Melbourne, along with broader geopolitical issues such as India’s nuclear testing and Australia’s strategic alliances, as factors that strained relations over the years.

A central thesis of the book revolves around the concept of “ballast” in bilateral relationships, a term borrowed from former Foreign Minister Gareth Evans. Andrew argues that Australia’s historical lack of economic ballast in its relationship with India contributed to vulnerabilities in the partnership. He contrasts Australia’s successful economic engagement with East Asian countries, driven by a complementary export-led growth model, with the less harmonious economic strategies pursued by India.

Throughout the narrative, Andrew provided a nuanced understanding of the historical, political, and economic factors that have shaped the Australia-India relationship. The book is lauded by Prime Minister Albanese and Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong for its insightful analysis and optimistic vision for the future partnership between the two nations.

Perspectives:Asia is presented by the Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University and the Australian Centre of Asia-Pacific Art (ACAPA) at QAGOMA.

Previous Perspectives:Asia seminars are also available online.