Beyond Borders –
Bob Hawke’s International Legacy

The 1980s were a decade of dramatic global change with the Cold War winding down and economies shifting from protectionist to free-market policies. The world was undergoing technological change and rapid population growth. Ideas were shifting – the hold of communism and colonialism were loosening while a desire for environmental action and international peace were growing. As the Australian Prime Minister through this time, Bob Hawke actively participated in foreign affairs, reshaping Australia’s place in the world through championing global cooperation to enable economic progress and support international peace.

Building on his international experience as President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions Hawke used diplomacy, consensus, and personal connection to position Australia as a proactive middle power. He built relationships with world leaders though international visits and hosting foreign leaders. Establishing relationships with Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, and the Chinese leadership as well as leaders from across Asia, the Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. Actively participating in multilateral forums such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings and the South Pacific Forum, Hawke used these gatherings to advocate for human rights, environmental protection, nuclear disarmament, and regional development.

For Australia, changes included severing final ties with Great Britain through the Australia Act; strengthening relationships in Asia and the Pacific helping to found APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation); redefining the US/Australia relationship; advocating for nuclear disarmament and environmental protection, including the Madrid Protocol banning mining in Antarctica; supporting the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty; standing firm against apartheid in South Africa; and, responding to global crises such as the Tiananmen Square protests, and the fall of communism in Europe. Beyond Borders invites you to learn how Hawke and his government helped shape Australia’s global identity and left a lasting legacy.

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