Australia and Indonesia: Bonds of Independence

Oct 2, 2024

Lecture Notes: Australia and Indonesia - Trade and Independence

Introduction

  • Overview of historical connections between Australia and Indonesia.
  • The impact of war on ocean contacts, specifically World War II.
  • The Esperance Bay ship's journey in 1945, marking a new beginning for Australia-Indonesian relations.

Key Events in 1945

  • Departure of Esperance Bay:
    • 1400 Indonesians left Australia for Java.
    • Australian government ensured they would not land in Dutch-controlled ports.
  • Significance of the voyage:
    • Represented solidarity between Australian workers and Indonesians in their fight for independence.
  • Flag Presentation:
    • Symbol of support from Australian trade unions to the Indonesian Republic.

Cultural Connections

  • Long-standing friendship between Australians and Indonesians.
  • Shared experiences and cultural exchanges during the war.
  • Celebration of Indonesian independence in Australia, showing unity across cultures.

Indonesian Independence Movement

  • Proclamation of the Republic of Indonesia.
  • Key principles of the new government:
    • Freedom of organization, assembly, expression, and press.
  • Oath of loyalty by Indonesians in support of freedom.

Economic Context

  • Highlighting the colonial history:
    • 350 years of Dutch colonial rule exploited Indonesian resources.
    • Indonesian workers had been denied rights until coming to Australia.
  • Post-war economic aspirations of the Dutch to reclaim resources in Indonesia.

Labor Movement Response

  • Strike Actions:
    • Australian workers refused to man Dutch ships carrying arms against Indonesia.
    • Labor solidarity from Australian workers in support of Indonesian independence.
  • Broader union actions:
    • The establishment of a black ban on Dutch ships.
    • Support from various international unions, including American and Canadian labor movements.

Global Solidarity and Support

  • Leaders from various nations supported Indonesian freedom:
    • Indian, Soviet, and Filipino voices raised against Dutch imperialism.
  • Reports of successful actions taken by Australian labor:
    • Ships denied passage, symbolizing the collective stand against oppression.

Celebration of Solidarity

  • Indian sailors' significant act of refusing to carry arms for the Dutch.
  • Recognition of international brotherhood among workers.
  • Continued support from various ethnic and national groups for Indonesia's struggle.

Conclusion

  • Emphasis on the importance of solidarity among oppressed nations.
  • The impact of collective action in promoting freedom and independence.
  • Reflection on the ships that didn’t sail—symbolizing labor's commitment to justice and support for the Indonesian Republic.