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Stepping into the Asian Century

From: The Interpreter

In the 1990s, Australia's leaders assured the nation it would not have to alter its society or institutions to engage with Asia. Adjust the diplomatic settings, of course, and learn the languages and ways of the region, but Australia could attend the Asian party dressed as it was.

Ownership of the Asian story was part of the battle between Paul Keating and John Howard. But both stressed the enduring strengths Australia offered the region. As Keating said, Australia would go to Asia as itself, 'a society which is rare in its cultural diversity, richness and tolerance, and a country which is strong and integrated with the region around it'. The Howard mantra was that Australia faced 'no choice between its history and its geography'. 

Budget week in Canberra shows how the terms of the argument have shifted. Now the discussion is of what Australia must change to adjust to Asia, as well as what Asia is doing for and to Australia. 

The debate is about transforming the economy, not the society or its traditions. The comfort zone, however, has shrunk. Australia is being told that it is already being altered by Asia and must go much further.