The ASEAN-Australia Centre has announced a call for applications for two flagship short courses designed to strengthen leadership and collaboration across Southeast Asia and Australia.

These programs—ASEAN’s Digital Transformation: Balancing Innovation, Integrity and Inclusion and Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Security in ASEAN and Australia—will run in 2026 and aim to equip emerging leaders with the skills and networks needed to tackle some of the region’s most pressing challenges.

ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is a regional intergovernmental organisation comprising of 11 member states across the region. Established in 1967, ASEAN promotes economic growth, political stability, and regional integration. Collectively, ASEAN represents over 670 million people and is the fifth-largest economy in the world, with a combined GDP exceeding US$3.6 trillion in 2022. Its strategic location and dynamic markets make it a critical player in global trade and investment.

Australia is a longstanding partner of ASEAN, and strengthening ties with the region is central to Australia’s economic and foreign policy. Initiatives like these short courses aim to deepen cooperation in areas that will shape the future—digital transformation and sustainable agriculture.

Launched in November 2024, the ASEAN-Australia Centre Leadership Program is part of a broader effort to implement recommendations from Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040. Its mission is clear: to build a network of future ASEAN leaders with strong connections to Australia who can drive positive change across business, education, and community sectors.

“These short courses are about more than technical knowledge,” explains Team Leader Alison Darcy. “They’re about fostering collaboration and creating a generation of leaders who understand the complexities of our shared challenges and opportunities.”

The Importance of Digital and Climate

ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to reach US$330 billion by 2025, driven by rapid internet penetration and mobile connectivity. Yet disparities in access and digital literacy persist, and concerns about misinformation, data governance, and ethical AI are growing.

“The signing of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement in 2026 will be a game-changer,” adds Darcy. “We want participants to be ready to shape policies and innovations that ensure digital transformation benefits everyone.”

Similarly, agriculture remains a cornerstone of ASEAN’s economy, but climate change threatens food security and livelihoods. The Asian Development Bank warns crop productivity could fall by 15–20% by 2050 under current trends. Strengthening capacity for climate-smart, bio-secure, and tech-enabled agriculture is critical.

“Climate change is not a distant threat—it’s here,” she notes. “This course will help leaders design solutions that integrate sustainability, technology, and resilience.”

Who Should Apply?

The Digital Transformation course targets early-to-mid career female professionals from ASEAN and Australia with 5–10 years of experience in digital technology and transformation. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to building networks and leading change in their sector.

The Climate-Smart Agriculture course seeks early-to-mid career professionals with similar experience in agriculture or food security. Candidates must show a passion for advancing sustainable and equitable practices in their country.

Both courses will run over 12 weeks in a hybrid format, combining online learning with a one-week immersion in Australia. Participants will engage in interactive sessions led by expert facilitators, field visits, and networking events with policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders.

“The in-Australia component is a highlight,” Darcy adds. “It’s an opportunity to experience firsthand how Australia approaches these challenges and to build lasting professional connections.”

Participants will not only gain technical expertise but also access a powerful network of peers and mentors across ASEAN and Australia. The program emphasizes practical, project-based learning, enabling participants to develop actionable strategies tailored to their country context.

“These courses are about creating impact,” she explains.

“We want graduates to leave with ideas they can implement immediately, whether it’s a policy recommendation, a pilot project, or a new partnership.”