The last time I saw Colin Mackerras was on 2 December 2025 in Melbourne, at the 19th Biennial Conference of the Chinese Studies Association of Australia. Looking back, I remember above all his warmth, his gentle manner and his capacity to remain at ease even when discussing contentious matters. These qualities accompanied a scholarly independence
The current term of the Asian Studies Association of Australia (ASAA) Council finishes at the end of 2026. During this two-year term, we celebrated some significant milestones, with 2026 marking 50 years since the founding of the Association, the holding of its first conference, and the establishment of its journal (now known as Asian Studies
ASAA Council, 2025–26: President’s End-of-Term Report Read More »
In China, the place of your registration is as important as the place where you live. If you have migrated from a rural area to a city, secured a job, and spent decades building your life there, you may still not enjoy the same access to public services as local residents who are registered in
China’s Hùkǒu Reforms Put the Cost on Local Governments Read More »
George Hicks made a significant contribution to the understanding of the polities, societies and economies of Asia for most of his 89 years before passing away on 16th of November 2025. His complementary roles as an independent scholar, media commentator, and a philanthropist centred on exposing and challenging authoritarianism while defending and promoting social justice,
In Memory of George Hicks Read More »
In August 2025, the historian, diplomat, linguist, and Korean Studies pioneer, Dr Adrian Buzo passed away after a long battle with illness. Known for intellectual curiosity, warmth, and generosity, Adrian Buzo helped lay the foundations for Korean Studies in Australia and advanced international understanding of the Korean Peninsula – particularly the origins of the political
Vale Adrian Buzo (1948–2025) Read More »
The passing of Anthony (Tony) Reid is a profound loss – not only for historians, but also for intellectuals, students, and all who admired his work across disciplines. Internationally, Tony built a remarkable career anchored in Asia, particularly in Southeast Asia, with deep engagements in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. His role in shaping the field
Charting the Shape of Southeast Asian Studies: Honouring the Legacy of Anthony Reid Read More »
