On March 5, 2025, a gala dinner commemorating the 100th anniversary of Australia-China education was held at the New South Wales Parliament House in Australia. This event brought together more than 80 industry leaders from government, business, and academia to collectively honor and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first Chinese students arriving in Australia. The event fully recognised the significant contributions of Chinese students to Australian society and education over the past century and expressed heartfelt gratitude for their efforts in contributing to the development of Australian society.
The Honourable Penny Wong, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate, attended as an honored guest and delivered a keynote speech. In her address, Minister Wong reviewed the century-long history of educational exchanges between Australia and China, positively acknowledged the achievements of bilateral cooperation in education, and fully affirmed the significant contributions of Chinese students in advancing Australia-China relations.
ACAA Chair Sara Cheng highlighted Australia’s cultural diversity and international student population as a unique edge over other developed economies. Ms. Cheng urged government, businesses, industry, and alumni to collaborate on an innovative educational ecosystem to unlock opportunities for students and Australia-China alumni.
Dr. Grace Li, ACAA Co-Chair, reviewed the ACAA’s growth since its 2007 founding at the Australian Embassy in China. As a leading non-profit, ACAA strengthens alumni ties and supports their development in business, academia, culture, and government. The annual 'Australia China Alumni Awards,' now in its 17th year, has honored over 850 finalists and 200 winners. In 2025, ACAA will launch scholarships, masterclasses, a mentorship program, and more industry events.
Professor Annamarie Jagose, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sydney, and the Hon. Verity Firth, AM, Vice-President Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement of UNSW, outlined their universities’ long contributions as educational platforms for Chinese students.
Luke Sheehy, CEO of Universities Australia, representing 42 Australian universities, praised the profound impact of Chinese students on higher education. Leigh Howard, CEO of Asialink Business at the University of Melbourne, reviewed their outstanding contributions to education, business, and Australia’s multicultural society.
Mr. Sun Yi, 2024 ACAA Award winner in Art and Creativity, and Sydney Symphony Orchestra Deputy Concertmaster, delivered a captivating violin performance, while Ms. Ailing Huang, representing Chinese students from the Australian Institute of Music, sang beautifully, adding charm and rhythm to the celebration. Also as representatives of the ACAA community, Ms. Amy Mo, founder of Austlink Education Group, shared her 20+ years of experience aiding Chinese students’ integration into Australian society. Mr. Eric Gao, 2024 Australia China Alumni Award winner for Business Achievement and Boman Group founder, introduced his Australia-China Industry Fund to boost technological and industrial ties, pledging support for standout alumni businesses.
Professor David Goodman, Chair of the University of Sydney’s China Studies Centre and ACAA Advisory Board member, thanked attendees in his closing remarks. He noted that the event showcased the remarkable achievements of Australia-China alumni across various fields and their vital role in strengthening bilateral ties. As a key bridge between alumni, universities, and industries, the ACAA will deepen engagement with students and graduates, expand support programs, and empower alumni to grow, amplify their influence, and contribute more to both countries.
Photos are kindly provided by 2CR.
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