About the ACFS (Victoria)

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History

The notion of the ACFS originated at the "International Students' Club" at Melbourne University, by a group of young, progressive students.

Established in 1951 when the People's Republic of China was still in its formative years, the ACFS has a proud record. It was among the first organisations worldwide to acknowledge the "New China" and a key player in promoting interest in China. It fostered Australia's diplomatic recognition of China in 1972, encouraging and continuing to maintain friendly relations between the Australian and Chinese people.

Organising the many tours to China has helped cement friendships and promoted exchanges of all kinds. The ACFS has sponsored delegations of industrial, business, cultural and women’s groups to China and facilitated many educational exchanges.

In 1972, a National Council was formed. Member States are Northern Territory, Western Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria.

Activities

Our activities include:

• Welcome and host delegations from China
• Encourage people-to-people exchanges between Australia and China
• Organise 2-way exhibitions
• Conduct educational and cultural forums
• Chinese culture and language promotion
• Organise specialist tours to China and assist with tours into Australia
• Promote Sister City relationships between Australian and Chinese municipalities
• Facilitate economic development opportunities
• Advise on Australian/China interactions

4th floor, Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 3000. Email secretary@acfs-vic.org www.acfs-vic.org