Indo-Pacific Analysis Brief Vol 62
How the Women’s Asian Cup reinforces Australia’s Indo-Pacific diplomacy
March 2026
By Sarah Leary
Sarah Leary is a Senior Research Adviser (First Nations Foreign Policy) at the Perth USAsia Centre.
A proud Palawa woman, she has 15 years’ experience in the Australian Government including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Attorney-General’s Departments, spanning strategic policy, trade and investment, and programs advancing private-sector development, gender equality and sports diplomacy across the Indo-Pacific.
Key Messages
↗ The Women’s Asian Cup is not just a showcase of elite women’s soccer, but a strategic opportunity for Australia to strengthen Indo-Pacific ties through sports diplomacy.
↗ Sport fosters enduring people-to-people links that bridge political divides, including during periods of contest and competition.
↗ Hosting the Asian Cup underscores Australia’s commitment to advancing gender equality and regional integration in uncertain times.
Related insights
Indo-Pacific Analysis Briefs
The Indo-Pacific Analysis Briefs deliver concise, timely insights on critical regional developments. Drawing on perspectives from leading analysts in Asia, Australia and the United States, this series examines emerging issues shaping national and Indo-Pacific policy.