Whilst Japan and Australia have enjoyed a fulfilling bilateral relationship for 20 years, both nations are experiencing significant changes. These include economic changes, changes in political leadership and changing strategic perspectives. Professor Jenny Corbett from The Australian National University spoke candidly about these developments and her predictions for the future of the Japan-Australia relationship on February 27, at our first cocktail function for 2008. 

While Australia has been an above-average exporter of services, Japan’s imports in the service sector are less than average due to the high restrictions. Economic challenges, such as those posed by the service sector, have the ability to impact on bilateral relations. Professor Corbett suggested that Japan is currently experiencing a ‘political crisis’, with potentially damaging effects for Japan-Australia relations. In regards to responsibility for the future of the relationship, the Professor placed the ball in Japan’s court, citing internal structural reform and a positive outcome from the Free Trade Agreement negotiations as integral to future success.  

Problems in Japan’s political structure pose significant challenges to its ability as a partner in a changing world. Professor Corbett noted in particular that the political structure appears stagnant and lacking in strength, limiting reforms and complicating the passage of legislation. Professor Corbett felt that prospects of visionary political reform in the foreseeable future were unlikely.   

It was stated that the key question now challenging those with a stake in the Japan-Australia partnership is: ‘How do we maintain the focus on Japan as a partner as its share as a trading-partner declines?’ 

The answer lies in rethinking the very nature of the relationship. Whilst the emphasis to date has been largely economic, it is essential that we now turn to importance of Japan as a strategic partner. However, Professor Corbett stressed the comparative difficulty in conveying the importance of so subtle a message to those used to focussing on the bottom line.

Several suggestions were put forward for revitalising bilateral relations. First, there is a need to regenerate Japan-Australia meetings and forums, such as those organised by the AJBA. Second, more independent research into Japan is required. Finally, it is important to renew the focus on Japanese language study in schools. In this way, we can look forward to taking the Japan-Australia relationship from strength to strength into the next decade.  

Written by Laura O'Loughlin who recently completed an internship at the Australia Japan Business Association.