2022 Japan Symposium Dialogue

A new era in Australia-Japan cooperation

March 2022

On 22 March 2022, the Perth USAsia Centre hosted its fifth annual Japan Symposium, themed “A New Era in Australia-Japan Security Cooperation.” Keynotes were delivered by Japan’s Ambassador to Australia, H.E. Yamagami Shingo, and Australia’s Deputy Chief of Army, Major General Natasha Fox AM CSC, with opening remarks by Australia’s Ambassador to Japan, Jan Adams AO PSM.

Speakers underscored the growing strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting the importance of Australia-Japan cooperation in maintaining regional security and a rules-based order—especially in light of the Ukraine conflict and China’s military assertiveness. The Symposium followed the signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), a milestone that will enhance joint defence exercises and deepen bilateral ties. Economic cooperation through trade agreements such as the RCEP and CPTPP was also discussed as critical to countering economic coercion and supply chain vulnerabilities.

A closing panel featuring Ambassador Yamagami, Major General Fox, Professor Gordon Flake, the Hon. Richard Court, and Hayley Channer explored the evolving regional context, including US engagement and shifting strategic dynamics. The event concluded with a private roundtable on future defence cooperation and the shared role of Japan and Australia in supporting Indo-Pacific stability.