About Us

We are ACI (AustChina Institute), a Melbourne-based not-for-profit think tank, dedicated to conducting research and analysis to assist policy-makers, corporations, investors and the Australian public in making informed decisions regarding the state and future direction of the Australia-China relationship.

We remain fully independent from government, foreign entities and state influence, sourcing funding exclusively through public donations, corporate sponsorships and consulting services for Australian importers and exporters. This model allows us to maintain integrity while exploring difficult questions around trade, diplomacy, technology and strategic alliances.

A core belief of the AustChina Institute is that dialogue, not division, shapes a better future. While political narratives around China can often swing between caution and confrontation, ACI advocates for a balanced, informed approach rooted in mutual respect and data-driven analysis. In an environment often polarised by political narratives, ACI remains a platform for factual, balanced perspectives. This neutrality allows the Institute to act as a bridge between academia, industry, trading associations and government, fostering multi-sector collaboration.

At the AustChina Institute, we offer an alternative to polarised narratives. Our research challenges assumptions, tests strategic options, and highlights the nuances often missing in mainstream debates.

Our Mission

Through independent and unbiased research, ACI explores the evolving dynamics of Australia's relationship with China – including mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan – within a shifting geopolitical landscape. Our mission is to produce rigorous, non-partisan research that fosters understanding, supports informed decision-making for Australian importers/exporters and promotes a more nuanced Australia-China discourse. Our mission objectives include:

Assessing the economic, strategic and diplomatic impact of Australia-China relations on trade, partnerships, competitiveness, regional stability and global influence.
Publishing of insights and policy recommendations to navigate Australia-China relations while advancing Australia's national interests.
Identifying initiatives that drive improved outcomes and create opportunities for Australian importers and exporters.
Tracking and analysing global developments that may strengthen or challenge the bilateral relationship.

Our Pillars of Research

Our research is primarily conducted across these 4 pillars:

Economy and Trade

We conduct qualitative analysis of foreign policy, industry trends, diplomatic narratives and economic interdependencies to assess their impact on key Australian industries, supply chains and national economic resilience. By identifying emerging risks, opportunities and trends within the Australia-China relationship, we deliver strategic insights that enable Australian importers and exporters to navigate economic shifts while maintaining stability.

Security and Geopolitics

Our research examines the evolving regional security landscape, analysing the influence of strategic policies, military developments and geopolitical shifts on stability in the Asia-Pacific region. We assess how global power dynamics, defense strategies and multilateral agreements shape Australia’s security posture and future engagement in regional affairs.

Bilateral Relations

Our research delves into the diplomatic engagements, political discourse and evolving diplomatic strategies that define Australia-China interactions. Qualitative analysis of our bilateral agreements, diplomatic interactions and cooperative efforts in areas such as trade, education and cultural exchanges enable us to provide insights into the long-term trajectory of the relationship.

Technology, Science and Climate Action

We assess the depth of collaboration between Australia and China in technological innovation, focusing on academic and foreign investment partnerships that drive advancements in key industries. Our research also examines the effectiveness of China’s climate action policies and environmental sustainability efforts, exploring how joint initiatives could support Australia’s progress toward its Paris Agreement targets, enhance climate change mitigation efforts and accelerate the development of green technologies.

Our team acknowledges that we meet and work on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first peoples of Australia.

Email: info@aci.org.au

Location: 470 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004

Help Sustain our Independent Research

As an independent, not-for-profit think tank, we rely on YOUR support to continue our work. If you found this piece valuable, please consider becoming a monthly supporter. Your contribution powers our non-partisan research, publications and outreach.

In 2026, we plan to amplify our impact through a bold multimedia strategy and expanded media engagement — and only YOUR support can make it happen!

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ACI is a not-for-profit organisation registered with ACNC (Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission). Supporter contributions of $2 or more are tax deductible. Address: 470 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004
ABN: 40 286 975 439