DKI APCSS Director Suzy Vares-Lum’s Visit to Australia Highlights Strengthening Defense and Education Ties

Canberra, Australia – DKI APCSS Director Suzy Vares-Lum recently visited Australia to advance collaboration in defense, education, and regional security. Her visit focused on strengthening academic partnerships and building the Center’s expanding alumni network in Australia. Vares-Lum met with representatives from several academic institutions, think tanks, and government agencies, creating opportunities to deepen ties between the U.S. and Australia.

Among the institutions she engaged with were the Australian Pacific Security College, the National Security College, and the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. Vares-Lum also met with senior officials from the Australian Office of Defence Industry Support, where the discussion centered on improving the Defense Industrial Base, fostering regional collaboration, and exploring personnel exchanges. The conversations reinforced the importance of collaborative partnerships and the role both nations play in ensuring a secure future for the Indo-Pacific region.

“Together, we are paving the way for innovative solutions and shared success in defense and education,” said Vares-Lum. “Our collective efforts will promote a more secure future for all.”

During the visit, Vares-Lum also had the honor of attending a solemn ceremony at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. The Memorial commemorates the more than 103,000 members of the Australian armed forces who lost their lives in service to their nation. As part of the Last Post ceremony, Vares-Lum laid a wreath at the reflecting pool, paying tribute to the fallen.

The Last Post ceremony holds a special significance in Australian military culture, and Vares-Lum’s participation underscored the deep and enduring bonds between the U.S. and Australia.

In addition to her engagements in the defense sector, Vares-Lum and her team met with Charge d’Affaires Erika Olson at the U.S. Embassy in Canberra. The discussions highlighted regional security dynamics and emphasized the importance of multilateral partnerships to address complex global challenges. The exchange reaffirmed the shared commitment of the U.S. and Australia to maintaining a stable, prosperous, and rules-based international order.

The visit underscored the growing cooperation between the two nations in areas of mutual interest, with a focus on bolstering defense, education, and regional security. This collaboration continues to strengthen ties and build a foundation for future success in the Indo-Pacific.