An Enduring Partnership
Argentina–Australia relations span over six decades, evolving from the establishment of embassies in the early 1960s –after formally establishing diplomatic relations in December 1959– to a mature partnership underpinned by political dialogue, economic exchange, and cultural ties. High-level diplomatic exchanges have strengthened bonds over the decades, including historic presidential visits by Raúl Alfonsín (1986) –the first visit ever to Australia by a Latin American head of state- and Carlos Menem (1998), as well as a more recent visit by former Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, during Argentina's G20 presidency in 2018.
Both nations are partners on the world stage, cooperating on a wide range of issues including international trade, disarmament, and the peaceful governance of Antarctica –as original signatories to the Antarctic Treaty, both nations share environmental stewardship responsibilities in the oceans surrounding Antarctica and collaborate on scientific research programs that advance understanding of climate change and ecosystem preservation in the region. Also worth noting is that both countries host the two main Antarctic organizations: the Antarctic Treaty Secretariat in Buenos Aires (www.ats.aq) and the Executive Secretary of the Commission on Antarctic Marine Living Resources (www.ccamlr.org) in Hobart.
We work closely in numerous multilateral forums, including the United Nations, the G20, the World Trade Organization (WTO)—most notably through the Cairns Group of agricultural fair-trading countries—and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), among others.
These diplomatic foundations support cooperation across multiple sectors including trade, science and technology, education, mining, and nuclear energy, underpinned by over twenty bilateral agreements ranging from investment protection to nuclear cooperation, including:
* Investment Protection Agreement (1997)
* Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation (1999)
* Agreement on Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (2005)
* Memorandum of Understanding on reciprocal Work and Holiday Visa Arrangement (2012)
* Memorandum of Understanding on Education, Science and Technology (2017)
A Dynamic Economic Partnership
Although somewhat natural competitors, Argentina and Australia share a dynamic economic relationship, characterized by significant investment and collaboration in key sectors. As two major agricultural and resource-rich nations in the Southern Hemisphere, we are partnering forces in driving innovation and opportunity in global markets in these sectors. Economic links also continue to develop across complementary sectors such as agri-food, energy transition and critical minerals, technology and innovation. Notable Australian presence in Argentina's mining sector reflects growing confidence in bilateral economic cooperation, with major projects contributing to Argentina's mineral resource development.
Also worth noting is the hi-tech landmark cooperation project showcasing this partnership through the contribution by Argentine company INVAP (https://www.invap.com.ar/en/) to the construction and operation of the OPAL nuclear research reactor at the ANSTO facilities in Lucas Heights, NSW.
A Connection Forged by People
The relationship between Argentina and Australia is defined by deep and growing people-to-people links. Our shared Southern Hemisphere and immigrant nation identity has fostered a unique connection, creating a vibrant bridge of culture, tourism, and education between our two nations. Through the decades –especially 60’s and 70´s- Australia has welcomed a fair number of Argentine migrant nationals whose families have settled across the country. Even though today they call Australia their home, they maintain strong ties with their roots.
The Work and Holiday Visa arrangement, in force since 2012, allows an increasing number of Argentines annually to experience life –working and traveling- in Australia while providing similar opportunities for Australians in Argentina. Australia has also welcomed many professionals from diverse backgrounds who have prospered through their hard work and expertise. They too are today an important and valuable bridge connecting both countries.
These connections are reflected in our communities. According to the 2021 Australian Census, nearly 18,000 Australian residents were born in Argentina, and over 15,700 identify as having Argentine descent. These numbers are complemented by working visitors, students and tourists totalling today around 40,000 residents. This vibrant and passionate diaspora no doubt contributes significantly to Australia's multicultural fabric.
Two nations and communities that share a love for the vast extensions of their countries and the outdoor life they offer, cherish the value of friendship, and have an extreme passion for sports, which has provided marvellous rivalries in rugby, hockey, tennis and football.