The MoU was signed today in Beijing, coinciding with the inaugural Australia-China Leaders Dialogue in the 100th anniversary year of Australia and China’s education relationship.

The MoU will focus on boosting prosperity through education and research to drive our countries’ economic development and cement education at the core of the Australia-China relationship.

Key aims of the MoU include:

• Encouraging the flow of students between our countries, including short-term exchanges and internships that prepare graduates for global careers and boost our people-to-people links.
• Expanding joint research, building on successful partnerships with long-term, strategic collaborations in areas that matter most.
• ⁠Sharing innovation ecosystems, bringing together universities, start-ups and industry across both nations to create shared hubs of creativity and entrepreneurship.

First signed in 1999, the MoU is Universities Australia’s longest-standing international partnership. Its renewal reflects the enduring strength of Australia–China education ties and our shared commitment to advancing collaboration in teaching, research and innovation.

The agreement was signed during a visit to Beijing led by Universities Australia Chair Professor Carolyn Evans and supported by Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy.

Professor Evans said the renewal underscores the vital role of universities in building understanding between our nations.

“Australia and China understand the importance of education, and this has helped bring our countries closer together for over a century,” Professor Evans said.

“Our ongoing collaboration has supported the exchange of knowledge, people and ideas that have benefitted both our nations, and I look forward to this work continuing for our mutual benefit.”

Mr Sheehy said universities play a crucial role in tackling the challenges we face as nations and as a global community.

“Through respectful, responsible engagement, we can continue to learn from one another and build a more prosperous, connected and sustainable future,” Mr Sheehy said.

“As we enter this new chapter, we do so with optimism and a deep respect for the role education plays in shaping strong, enduring relationships.”

China Education Association for International Exchange President Dr Liu Limin said that it was in the mutual interest of Australia and China to maintain a results-oriented cooperative approach.

“By strengthening institutional exchange platforms and promoting joint initiatives in areas of shared priority such as green transformation, smart agriculture and public health—particularly through fostering a youth-oriented talent community— both sides can facilitate deeper bilateral engagement and secure high-quality outcomes.”

ENDS