The ASEAN-Australia Centre Leadership Program (the Program) supports the ASEAN-Australia Centre’s work to build a network of future ASEAN leaders with strong connections to Australia, who will drive positive change across Australia and Southeast Asia. 

The ASEAN’s Digital Transformation: Balancing Innovation, Integrity and Inclusion short course will strengthen the capacity of 24 emerging and mid-career leaders from ASEAN Member States and Australia to navigate the opportunities and risks of digital transformation, with a focus on AI, Big Tech influence and youth well-being. 

The short course will be delivered over up to 12 weeks in the first half of 2026, through a blend of online learning and a one-week immersion program in Australia. 

The short course will support participants to:

• Analyse the growth trajectory and structural dynamics of ASEAN’s digital economy.
• Evaluate the societal, economic, and ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence and Big Tech dominance.
• Assess the risks and consequences of misinformation and disinformation and review ASEAN and Australian strategies for building information integrity and public trust.
• Examine policies and frameworks that support responsible AI, digital rights, and youth protection in online environments, identifying shared lessons across ASEAN and Australia.
• Explore innovations and practical tools for digital literacy, critical thinking, and ethical technology design, empowering young people and communities to engage safely and effectively online.
• Identify opportunities for regional cooperation and investment in digital innovation, data governance, and cross-border interoperability aligned with ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) objectives.
• Develop actionable strategies or policy recommendations to strengthen digital resilience, inclusion, and accountability, ensuring that digital transformation benefits all sectors of society.