
Australians and Singaporeans enjoy a thriving network of cross-border investments and joint collaborations - here's 5 reasons why...
1. Close Government tiesThe bilateral relationship with Singapore is one of Australia's closest and most comprehensive in Southeast Asia. Ministers for Defence, Trade and Foreign Affairs from both countries will be meeting this month for the eighth edition of the Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee (SAJMC).
2. School buddiesOver 100,000 Singaporeans are alumni of Australian universities, including the President Tony Tan. Singapore is a participant in the pilot phase of the New Colombo Plan, a signature initiative of the Australian Government which aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia and strengthen people-to-people and institutional relationships, through study and internships undertaken by Australian undergraduate students in the region.
3. Travel MatesIn 2013, there were 385,300 visitors to Australia from Singapore, an increase of 12.1 per cent on the previous year. Last year more people visited Australia from Singapore than any other country in Southeast Asia and Singaporeans can now use the SmartGate self-processing facilities at Australia's eight major airports.
4. Business PartnersThe Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA), which came into force on 28 July 2003, has contributed to a strong bilateral economic partnership. Singapore is Australia's largest trade and investment partner in ASEAN and our fifth largest trading partner overall. Singapore was ranked fourth overall as a source of foreign investment in Australia.
5. Defence AlliesSingapore and Australia have been partners in the Five Power Defence Arrangements since 1971 which also includes Malaysia, New Zealand and United Kingdom. The Singapore Armed Forces have access to Australian training areas, including the Shoalwater Bay Training Area in Queensland.
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