Centre News and Announcements

Perth USAsia Centre and AISWA Launch ‘Education Beyond The Horizon‘ Partnership To Strengthen Indo-Pacific Leadership In Wa Schools 

March 2026

The Perth USAsia Centre (the Centre) has entered a two-year strategic partnership with the Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia (AISWA), launching Education Beyond the Horizon: AISWA–Perth USAsia Centre Strategic Partnership. 

The initiative will strengthen globally informed, future-focused leadership across Western Australia’s Independent school sector and deepen engagement with contemporary geopolitical and strategic issues shaping the Indo-Pacific region. 

Western Australia’s prosperity and security are increasingly tied to the Indo-Pacific. This partnership will offer principals and leadership teams at Independent schools deeper regional insight and help position the sector as a valuable contributor to Western Australia’s broader regional engagement objectives. This partnership will support Independent school leadership to prepare students to be globally aware citizens and future-ready leaders who understand the politics, economics, security and cultures shaping their career pathways, university choices and international opportunities. 

Under the agreement, the Perth USAsia Centre will deliver keynote presentations, convene dedicated events for AISWA Members, provide access to expert-led, region-focused online microcredentials, and create tailored engagement opportunities to strengthen leadership capability. 

CEO of the Perth USAsia Centre, Gordon Flake, said the partnership reflects the growing importance of Indo-Pacific literacy in Australia’s education system. 

“School leaders are shaping the next generation of Australians at a time of profound regional transformation. Strengthening strategic understanding of the Indo-Pacific ensures our education sector is preparing students not just for local success, but for meaningful engagement in a region that will define their future.”

Professor Gordon Flake

AISWA Executive Director, Chris Massey, said the collaboration would broaden leadership development offerings across the sector. 

“Independent schools play a critical role in preparing young people to contribute to Western Australia’s future.  

“By giving school leaders access to strategic regional insights, this partnership will strengthen Indo‑Pacific understanding across the sector and support schools in providing students with the global awareness, strategic insight and skills needed for tomorrow’s careers.   

The agreement commences in 2026 for an initial two-year term.