Murdoch University has appointed His Excellency, Sumio Kusaka, as Honorary Senior Fellow of the Indo-Pacific Research Centre (IPRC).

Professor Kusaka served as Japan’s Ambassador to Australia from 2015-2019 and is widely recognised for his success in strengthening bilateral security and economic ties between Australia and Japan.

He recently retired from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and currently serves as the Japan Committee Member for the Pacific Economic Council. He is also Distinguished Professor at Tokyo City University (TCU).

Murdoch University’s Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks said Professor Kusaka’s appointment built on a longtime partnership with Tokyo City University, including the TCU Australia Program (TAP), which offers a rich and varied study abroad experience for Japanese students in Perth, Western Australia.

“His Excellency’s appointment to the IPRC is in recognition of his expertise in regional diplomacy, geopolitics and security,” Professor Deeks said.

“I look forward to the contribution he will make to our academic community, providing expert commentary and mentoring of current and future academic leaders.”

IPRC Director Professor Jacqueline Lo said it was a privilege to welcome Professor Kusaka to Murdoch.

“He brings a wealth of knowledge about international affairs at a time when navigating the complexities of global security, trade, and environmental concerns has become increasingly critical to Australia and our neighbours in the region,” she said.

The IPRC was established in December 2023 as a university–wide platform to support research and collaboration with the region. It engages with the significant challenges of our time including socio-economic development, human security, and geo-strategic governance.

The IPRC supports the University’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific, providing insights into the challenges and changes facing the region.

Professor Lo said 2026 is an auspicious year for Japan-Australia relations as it marks the 50th anniversary of the NARA Treaty (Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation) signed between Australia and Japan on 16 June 1976.

The treaty established a framework for cooperation and deepened the partnership, which is now viewed as essential for regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. The IPRC is planning several public events to celebrate the milestone.

Professor Kusaka said he was delighted to join the IPRC as an Honorary Fellow to promote better understanding of - and engagement with – the challenges and opportunities facing the Indo-Pacific.

 “I am honoured by this appointment and look forward contributing to the activities of the Centre and strengthening the cooperation between MU and TCU,” he said.