The Australia–Japan Foundation (AJF) was established on 10 May 1976 under the Australia–Japan Foundation Act 1976, following a recommendation from the Crawford Commission. Its creation coincided with the signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Australia and Japan, marking a new era in bilateral relations.
The AJF’s original objectives were to deepen and widen contacts between Australia and Japan in all fields—business, academic, cultural, scientific, and trade unions—and to promote mutual understanding through language, cultural exchange and study of each other’s institutions.
Initially a statutory authority, the AJF became a non-statutory advisory body under the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in 2006. Today, as a bilateral foundation within the Department, the AJF continues to advance people-to-people and institutional links between Australia and Japan through programs and partnerships aligned with Australian Government priorities.
Over the decades, the AJF has supported countless cultural, sporting, scientific, academic and economic diplomacy initiatives, as well as projects that foster understanding of geopolitical issues. See more about previous grant recipients.
In 2026, the AJF will commemorate its 50th anniversary, a milestone that coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Australia and Japan.
This includes a special 50th Anniversary grant round for impactful events held in Australia that honour the legacy of Australia-Japan relations and foster future-oriented collaboration, innovation and mutual understanding. See the Grants page for more information.
Keep an eye on this page and follow us on social media for updates on other anniversary-related activities.