Griffith University has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the APEC region through the refreshed and strengthened Griffith Asia Institute APEC Study Centre, a hub dedicated to advancing sustainable development and regional cooperation across the APEC economies.
Building on the strong foundations laid by its earlier leadership, the Centre continues its role within the APEC Study Centres Consortium—a global network supporting research and capacity building across APEC’s 21 member economies. Operating from within the Griffith Asia Institute, the Centre will deliver rigorous, policy-relevant research aligned with APEC priorities, including sustainable growth, trade, labour markets, migration, health systems, social inclusion, and climate resilience.
Centre Lead of the APEC Study Centre, Associate Professor Parvinder Kler, said the renewed focus comes at a critical moment for Australia’s regional engagement.
“The regions encompassing the APEC economies are navigating profound transitions—from demographic shifts and labour mobility to climate challenges and digital transformation. The APEC Study Centre enables Griffith to contribute evidence-based insights that support more inclusive and sustainable economic outcomes across these economies.”
He noted that the Centre’s work will remain firmly guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring its research is globally relevant and regionally impactful.
A key feature of the strengthened centre is the Young Professionals Program, providing emerging scholars with hands-on experience in live policy conversations. Investing in the next generation of regional thinkers is essential. The Young Professionals Program helps students and early-career researchers build the skills and networks needed to shape the region’s future.
Deputy Centre Lead Associate Professor Shyama Ratnasiri emphasised the importance of partnerships and co-creation.
“Griffith Asia Institute’s APEC Study Centre brings together universities, government agencies, and industry partners to co-create solutions. That collaborative spirit is the foundation of APEC, and it’s central to our mission.”
The APEC Study Centre website is now live, offering information on research priorities, partnerships, programs and upcoming opportunities.
For more information, visit the APEC Study Centre webpage.
