CDU deepens Indonesia ties with Bali Roadshow
Charles Darwin University (CDU) has bolstered its regional partnerships with a high-profile academic roadshow in Bali, showcasing its growing role as one of Australia’s most connected universities in Southeast Asia.
Led by Associate Vice-Chancellor Indonesia, Dr Nathan Franklin, the delegation featured Professor Lindy Burton (Architecture), Associate Professor Natalie Milic (Health) and Dr Betty Noad (Education).
Across three intensive days in July, the group advanced CDU’s triple helix approach - driving collaboration between universities, government and industry - through keynote addresses, high-level government meetings and school visits.
At Universitas Ngurah Rai (UNR), CDU academics headlined the International Academic Symposium and Workshop Series Transforming Knowledge into Impact: Collaboration for Regional Progress with the event attracting hundreds of students, academics, senior government officials and business leaders.
Roadshow highlights included a special education session led by Dr Noad, Associate Professor Jon Mason and Indonesian Higher Degree by Research students, which showcased digital learning innovations, student experiences in Darwin, and the launch of a PhD-developed English-learning app.
Professor Burton presented on sustainable design and air quality solutions, while Associate Professor Milic mapped out the rising potential of Bali’s health economy through allied services and health tourism.
Dr Franklin underlined the importance of a strong bilateral relationship between Australia and Indonesia - particularly the Northern Territory - across trade, education, defence cooperation and community links.
“The partnerships we forge with Indonesia today will shape stronger government, industry and community collaboration tomorrow, and fits Charles Darwin University’s agenda to become the Australian leader in working with Indonesia,” Dr Franklin said.
The delegation also met with the Australian Consulate in Bali and toured the award-winning Green School Bali, opening the door to future collaborations in sustainability and student mobility.