Research projects

The Asia Institute is distinguished by its active research profile. Faculty and graduate research projects involve not only aspects of our four target areas (Arabic and Islamic Studies, China, Indonesia, Japan) but also, and very importantly, Australia’s relationship to Asia.

A number of projects probe Asia-Australian relations as well as the lives and cultures of Asian migrants to Australia. Other areas of research include computer aided language learning (CALL), endangered languages, dialectology, modern history and various forms of Asian popular culture.

A selected listing of current research projects being undertaken at the Asia Institute is below.

Strengthening Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG Standards and Practices for a Just Transition)

Project Summary

This seeding project seeks to establish a sustained and equitable research partnership between Universitas Indonesia and the University of Melbourne that is GEDSI-oriented and enriches public discussion and awareness of justice issues in Indonesia’s green transition. Our multi-disciplinary team will examine current Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards and practices in three case studies – Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Project, Poso Hydropower Complex, and West Nusa Tenggara’s 100% Renewable Energy Roadmap. Through extensive data collection and analysis, we will deepen engagement with key stakeholders and work with communities, ensuring they are better placed to make interventions for more just outcomes.

Domestic States, Politics, and the Guiding Principles: Insights from Indonesia

Project Summary

Principles, and enhanced understanding of solutions to global governance gaps.

Green Energy Statecraft Project

Project Summary

Green Energy Statecraft is a new governance framework designed to guide and accelerate the transition to green energy and enhance national security in an era of polycrisis. The project investigates how Green Energy Statecraft can deliver economic, energy, environmental, socio-political, and military security benefits through a strategic and holistic approach to energy transition governance.

Immigrant Entrepreneurship, Hallyu, and Cultural Diversity: The Korean Restaurant Business in Australia

Project Summary

Employing theoretical frameworks of immigrant entrepreneurship, this study aims to investigate why and how Korean immigrants in Australia have become heavily involved in the Korean restaurant business over the past decade. Based on ethnographic research to be conducted in several major Australian cities between February and December 2025, this study will explore the various situational factors across socio-structural layers that have critically influenced the decision-making and management of Korean restaurant businesses in Australia. By examining these factors, the research will provide insight into how, and to what extent, Korean immigrants are integrating into Australian society. This is particularly significant as, in the past decade, many Korean immigrants have begun opening restaurants beyond Sydney and Melbourne, where most were previously concentrated. These cities now include Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra, as well as smaller cities across Australia.

Create networks to empower the Global South's global governance capacity and make China’s international development cooperation more accountable

Project Summary

This project examines China’s growing role in international development cooperation, especially in the Asia-Pacific, analysing its impact on global governance, accountability, and power dynamics, and exploring how to strengthen the Global South’s capacity to manage China’s development finance responsibly.