'This article aims briefly to explain and evaluate Australian studies in China over the past 60 years. It will take up how Australian studies began and grew in influence, and a couple of the organisations that helped it do so. It discusses, in particular, four Australian Studies Centres (ASCs) with which I have had some involvement. Through the lens of these centres, the article probes the nature of Australian studies in China, arguing there is a close connection between international and domestic politics and Australian studies in China. Australian studies grew and flourished in a context, and because of, good political relations between Australia and China. This article also considers some implications behind establishing such an extensive network of ASCs and speculates on their future in a context of the current poor relations between the two countries.' (Introduction)
