Australia in transition

Australia was colonised and developed by the British, and despite being on the opposite side of the globe, Australian culture, trade, and political loyalties were heavily influenced by the British heritage. In the early post-war years, the importance of this special relationship was diluted by the growing economic and political influence of the United States and by immigration from other parts of Europe: nonetheless Australia has obviously remained overwhelmingly western in its values, outlook, ethnic composition and political affiliations. Most recently, however, as the ties of history have been loosened, the geographical realities of being located on the periphery of Asia have attained increased prominence. New patterns of immigration, trade, and international relations are signalling a potentially significant change in the personality of Australia as it is drawn more fully into the orbit of the dynamic Asia-Pacific region.