From classrooms to careers: Public hearings on strengthening Australia's Asia capability
House of Representatives
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Education will hold two public hearings as a part of its inquiry into building Asia capability in Australia through the education system and beyond.
On Monday, 13 April 2026 the Committee will hear from community language organisations, language educators, and foreign policy experts to better understand how language and cultural learning builds long-term Asia capability in Australia.
On Tuesday 14 April 2026, the public hearing will focus on perspectives from the business community, and examine the skills and capabilities needed to engage effectively with Asian economies. The Committee will hear from business leaders and graduates who will discuss the linkages between the education system and successful careers and engagement in the region.
Committee Chair, Hon Tim Watts MP, said the hearings ‘will provide valuable insight into how Australia can take a more coordinated and sustained approach to building Asia capability and why this is strategically important’.
‘These hearings will help the Committee understand how education, language skills and community ties can better support Australia’s economic, social and strategic interests,’ Mr Watts said.
Public hearings
Date: Monday, 13 April 2026
Time: 10.30am – 4.15pm
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra
Date: Tuesday, 14 April 2026
Time: 11.00am – 2.15pm
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra
A program for the public hearing is available on the inquiry website. A live broadcast of the hearing will also be available on the APH website.
Media inquiries
Laura Green
Office of Hon Tim Watts MP, Chair
[email protected]
(03) 9687 7661
For background information
Committee Secretariat
02 6277 4573
[email protected]
