Australian Ambassador Visited East Java Province, Reinforces Relations

RRI.CO.ID, Surabaya - Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Rod Brazier, is visiting East Java this week to deepen Australia–Indonesia relations in the region. According to a release received by RRI Voice of Indonesia on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, he visited several places in East Java such as Surabaya and Jombang.

The Ambassador was accompanied by the Deputy Governor of East Java province, Emil Elestianto Dardak, and the Australian Consul-General in Surabaya, Glen Askew. They attended Western Sydney University Indonesia’s Orientation Day and underscored the strong educational partnership between Australia and Indonesia in East Java.

He also delivered a public lecture on Australia-Indonesia bilateral relations at Universitas Airlangga, and visited the #AussieBanget corner at the university. Ambassador Brazier also met with prominent Australian alumni who are senior academics and university leaders from Indonesian higher education institutions.

“The connections built through education play an essential role in strengthening ties between Australia and Indonesia. By exchanging knowledge, experiences, and networks, we create meaningful opportunities for young people to learn, thrive, and help shape our shared future,” Ambassador Brazier said.

During his visit, he also travelled to Jombang and met with prominent figures and Australian alumni from Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah to exchange insights on issues that are important to both countries.

"I am inspired by the discussions and exchange of insights with leaders and alumni from NU and Muhammadiyah, particularly on promoting tolerance, empowering young people, and strengthening the role of communities in deepening bilateral relations. By working together and strengthening connections between people, we can further deepen the enduring friendship between Australia and Indonesia,” Ambassador Brazier conveyed.

While in Jombang, Ambassador Brazier also paid his respects at the gravesite of Indonesia’s fourth President, the late K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), joined by Yenny Wahid and KH. Abdul Hakim Machfudz, the leader of Pesantren Tebuireng and Chairman of the East Java Nahdlatul Ulama Regional Board (PWNU).