History

History of La Trobe Asia

Following an external review of La Trobe's Asia capacity, University senior management decided to explore the case for the creation of University-wide entity tasked with overseeing its dealings with Asia. A project team was established to develop the proposal based on a detailed audit of the University's Asia assets. The business plan was submitted to Planning Resources Committee in September 2013 proposing that La Trobe Asia be funded for a three year period. The plan was approved and subsequently funded through until 2016.  In 2016, the decision was made to retain La Trobe Asia in an ongoing capacity.

The decision to establish La Trobe Asia reflects La Trobe's intention to invest in a new approach to Asia that breaks with recent trends in Australian higher education. La Trobe Asia will coordinate, promote and develop La Trobe's approach to Asia, expressed in our three main goals:

• To develop and enhance the ability of staff and students to navigate a world increasingly shaped by Asian states and societies
• To build deep links with dynamic Asian universities and institutions
• To lead and shape public debate in Australia and Asia

La Trobe Asia's primary task is to develop, coordinate and advance this strategy, building on our many existing strengths. Its role will be to encourage, enable and embolden staff and students who have interests in Asia and to make the University more attractive to those in the region and beyond. La Trobe Asia will principally be a body which facilitates the various parts of the University to capitalise on the opportunities presented by Asia's rise.