More than 150 organisations are now offering work placement opportunities in the Indo-Pacific through the New Colombo Plan Internships and Mentorships Network.
The network was launched earlier this year by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, who emphasised the role of internship and mentorship experiences in complementing the formal studies of NCP students.
"Internships and mentorships are at the heart of the New Colombo Plan and offer students the opportunity to gain practical experience of regional workplaces and practices, and to build professional relationships in the region that will enhance their future career prospects – and Australia's future prosperity," Ms Bishop said.
According to the 2015 Australian International Business Survey, almost three quarters of organisations found it hard to do business with key countries in our region. Their key barrier was local language, culture and business practices.
Overcoming this barrier requires Australians to better understand the culture and customs, including business customs, of countries within our region. In the future, to remain competitive Australia and Australian businesses and NGOs will need a workforce with the knowledge and capabilities needed to succeed in the Indo-Pacific region.
The New Colombo Plan – and the NCP Internships and Mentorships Network – will help Australia, and Australian businesses, rise to this challenge.
For businesses and NGOs, offering internships to New Colombo Plan students offers a wide range of benefits. Host organisations can:
- harness the skills of talented young Australians
- access undergraduates who may be valuable future employees, volunteers and supporters
- build awareness of the organisation's objectives and challenges
- join the future of Australia's engagement with our neighbours.
The Australian Government encourages businesses and NGOs to consider participating in the New Colombo Plan by offering internships and mentorships in the Indo-Pacific region to Australian undergraduates.
Organisations can register interest on the NCP Internship and Mentorship Website