Penny Wong on New Colombo Plan
TL;DR
Penny Wong strongly supports the New Colombo Plan, leading reforms to expand its scope and focus on language learning.
Key Points
She announced reforms in July 2025 to strengthen the Indo-Pacific capability and Asia literacy of Australians participating in the program.
The 2026 round offered a record 328 NCP scholarships, marking a 50 per cent increase from 2025, with a goal to reach 500 scholarships by 2028.
The reforms introduce a language learning target across the program, aiming for 25 per cent of participants to undertake language-focused programs by 2028.
Summary
Penny Wong, as Foreign Minister, is a strong advocate for the New Colombo Plan, positioning it as a signature initiative to build Australia's Asia capability and literacy by facilitating study and internships in the Indo-Pacific region. She announced a significant next phase of reforms in July 2025, building on the program which has supported over 55,000 students since its 2014 launch. The core stance is to deepen national understanding of the region and strengthen people-to-people ties to benefit Australia's future prosperity.
The reforms are designed to be transformational, aligning with recommendations from the Invested: Australia's Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040. Key changes implemented from the 2026 round onwards include increasing the annual scholarship goal to 500 by 2028, placing a greater emphasis on students learning priority Asian languages, and prioritizing longer-term, immersive experiences through a new Semester Program. Furthermore, the reforms seek to deepen business engagement and leverage Australia's transnational education presence in the region.
Key Quotes
I am pleased to announce the outcomes of the 2026 round of the New Colombo Plan (NCP), which is supporting record numbers of Australian students to deepen their Asia capability and expertise.
The Government's New Colombo Plan is investing in Australia's future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Penny Wong is a strong supporter and is actively reforming the New Colombo Plan to enhance its strategic value. She views it as essential for building Australia's Asia capability and strengthening regional ties through immersive student experiences.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs announced reforms in July 2025 focusing on longer immersive experiences and increased language learning for participants. These changes include establishing a new Semester Program and increasing overall scholarship numbers.
The stated goal of Penny Wong's reforms is to ensure the next phase of the New Colombo Plan delivers on Australia's strategic objectives in the Indo-Pacific. This involves creating a larger cohort of Australians with deeper regional expertise and job-ready skills.
Sources7
Building young Australians' Asia capability through the New Colombo Plan | Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs
2026 New Colombo Plan outcomes announced | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
I am pleased to announce the outcomes of activity
New Colombo Plan | Australian High Commission Malaysia
Foreign Minister Announces Changes to New Colombo Plan
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.