Indonesia, Australia Strengthen Youth and Sports Cooperation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and Australia are seeking to expand cooperation in youth development and sports to strengthen young athletes' pathways to international competition while providing broader opportunities for education and career development.

Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir met with Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Rod Brazier and his delegation at the Ministry of Youth and Sports' Media Center in Jakarta on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in sports and youth affairs.

The meeting focused on developing sustainable pathways for young athletes and continuing youth exchange programs between the two countries.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports emphasized that developing young athletes is a priority for Indonesia, covering grassroots development, talent identification and elite-level performance. Indonesia also welcomed Australia's experience in developing effective, science-based sports systems.

"Australia is an important partner for Indonesia. We see great potential to expand collaboration, particularly in talent identification, coach training, sports facility management, as well as the application of sport science and sports medicine," Minister Erick said on Tuesday, August 11, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

As a concrete step, the ministry proposed a pilot project focused on young athlete development, including athlete exchange programs, joint training centers, and short-term internships for coaches and sports administrators.

The cooperation is expected not only to improve athletes' technical performance but also to create dual-career opportunities combining education and professional development through expanded access to Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS).

The meeting also discussed the finalization of an arrangement for the Australia-Indonesia Youth Exchange Program (AIYEP). Operated since 1982, the exchange program is currently undergoing a final review by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) before its official signing by Acting Deputy for Youth Services at the Ministry Hendro Wickaksono.

Regarding the implementation of AIYEP 2026, both sides held intensive discussions to find creative solutions and program designs amid budget adjustment challenges. Despite limited operational funding for this year's physical phase, the ministry and the Australian Embassy remain committed to consultations to maintain people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Meanwhile, the ministry is preparing a series of national youth activities in October 2026. The programs include the Wirasena Youth Camp on October 21-31, involving 168 participants; the Indonesia Youth Summit on October 28-29, expected to bring together 5,000 young people; and the National Debate Competition on October 29-30, with 100 participants.

Through the strategic partnership, Indonesia is committed to building a long-term and mutually beneficial relationship with Australia to develop globally competitive young people and athletes. ***