Authors: Silvia Jurticasari Febrian and Abizar Faletehan*
Diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia date back 75 years and reflect the close and dynamic working relationship between the two countries. One of the latest efforts to celebrate this relationship is the 2024 Australian-Indonesia Film Festival (FSAI). FSAI will be organized by the Australian Embassy in 10 major cities in Indonesia, including Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Mataram, Makassar, Manado, Samarinda, Balikpapan and Padang. The activity is not only a means to commemorate the long history of diplomatic relations, but also serves as a platform to strengthen cultural ties and broaden understanding between the people of the two countries.
History of diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia
Formal diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia began in 1949, shortly after Indonesia gained independence. Over the decades, the two countries have cooperated in various fields, including trade, education, defense and culture. According to data from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs, bilateral trade between Australia and Indonesia is expected to reach AUD16 billion in 2023. Additionally, there are currently over 20,000 Indonesian students studying in Australia, making Australia one of the most popular educational destinations for Indonesian students.
Australian Indonesian Film Festival (FSAI) 2024
FSAI 2024 is one of the key cultural events marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia. The festival, which will be held in 10 major cities in Indonesia, will feature a variety of activities, including joint viewing of Australian films and experience-sharing sessions with renowned producers and filmmakers. The festival is not only a vehicle for showcasing artistic works but also an effective tool for cultural diplomacy. FSAI 2024 activities include a range of events aimed at reaching a wider and more diverse audience. As well as film screenings, there will also be panel discussions, workshops and exhibitions showcasing aspects of Australian culture and life. Offering experience-sharing sessions with filmmakers, audiences will not only enjoy the films but also gain deeper insights into the creative process and the Australian film industry.
One of the highlights of the event was an experience-sharing session with renowned Australian film producer Steve Jagi. Jagi is best known for his films that focus on humanitarian stories and the beautiful Australian landscapes. In this session, Jagi will discuss the creative process of the film “Love Is in The Air,” inspired by the beauty of Whitehaven Beach. The beach is renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its fine white sand and clear blue waters. Through this film, Jagi hopes to introduce another side of Australia that is not yet widely known to the international community. There are strong reasons why the city of Padang was chosen as one of the venues for the 2024 FSAI. Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Penny Williams said the choice of Padang was a strategic step to strengthen ties with the province of West Sumatra. The province is known for its unique cultural richness and captivating natural beauty. According to data from the West Sumatra Central Statistics Agency, the province attracts more than one million domestic and international tourists every year, making it one of Indonesia’s leading tourist destinations.
West Sumatra is home to a variety of interesting tourist destinations, including Lake Maninjau, Padang Beach and the history-rich Bukittinggi. The diversity of Minangkabau culture and traditions, including dance, music and delicious cuisine, offers a special attraction for tourists. By hosting FSAI in Padang, the Australian Embassy hopes to introduce more Australians to the rich culture of West Sumatra and strengthen bilateral relations through deeper cultural understanding. FSAI 2024 will also be an event showcasing film works depicting the daily life and values of Australian society. Films screened at the festival will span a variety of genres, including drama, comedy and documentary. In this way, audiences can see different perspectives and stories that depict the realities of life in Australia.
Apart from that, FSAI 2024 also aims to foster collaboration between filmmakers from both countries. By hosting workshops and panel discussions, Indonesian and Australian filmmakers will be able to exchange ideas and experiences and explore opportunities for collaboration in filmmaking. Such collaboration will not only help in the production of quality film works, but will also strengthen professional and personal relationships between individuals from both countries. The positive impact of FSAI 2024 will be felt not only in the film industry but also in the wider community. Through this activity, Indonesian people will be able to better know and appreciate Australian culture, and Australian people will be able to better appreciate the richness of Indonesian culture. It is hoped that the cultural diplomacy established through FSAI 2024 will result in a more harmonious and mutually respectful relationship between the two countries.
The Role of Film in Cultural Diplomacy
Film is a powerful medium that builds relationships between individuals, communities and nations. Through the FSAI, Australian films can introduce aspects of Australian culture to Indonesian audiences, creating a deeper understanding and emotional connection between the people of both countries. By 2023, the Australian film industry will generate revenues of AUD 3 billion, with many films winning international awards and gaining global recognition. The experience sharing session with Steve Jaggi highlighted how film can be a tool to express passion and tell stories that inspire audiences from different backgrounds. Inspired by the beauty of Australia’s Whitehaven Beach, the film “Love Is in The Air” is an example of how to bring local elements to the international stage through film.
The impact of cultural diplomacy on bilateral relations
As reflected in the FSAI, cultural diplomacy has a significant impact on bilateral relations between Australia and Indonesia. These activities help to reduce stereotypes and strengthen bonds through deeper cultural understanding. A study conducted by the Australian National University in 2022 found that cultural programs organized by the Australian Embassy in Indonesia increased Indonesians’ favorable perceptions of Australia by 15%. Apart from that, cultural diplomacy also has a positive impact on the economy. Activities such as the FSAI can increase tourist interest in both countries, which in turn supports the tourism sector and the local economy. In 2023, more than 1.2 million Australian tourists will visit Indonesia, making Australia one of the largest tourist suppliers for Indonesia.
Future challenges and opportunities
Although diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia have made great strides, they also face various challenges. Cultural differences, trade regulations, and political issues can sometimes cause tensions. However, initiatives such as the FSAI show that through cultural dialogue and cooperation, many of these challenges can be overcome. Looking forward, there are many opportunities to strengthen these relations. For example, cooperation in the field of technology and innovation could be a new area that both countries can explore. Additionally, student and professional exchange programs could be expanded to further build bridges between the Australian and Indonesian communities.
*Abizar Faretehan I am an undergraduate student of Social and International Relations enrolled in 2022 at the Islamic University of Indonesia.
