Previous prime ministers such as Bob Hawke and Paul Keating established the first ties with Asia, but the new policy would be deeper and more organised, adds our correspondent.

BBC: Australia PM Julia Gillard outlines Asia manifesto

Under Prime Minister Paul Keating, Canberra has taken special pains to emphasize its links with Asia.

CNN: HEN THE FOREIGN MINISTERS

Earlier this decade, in Paul Keating's days as prime minister, the government was keen to stress that Australia was part of Asia.

ECONOMIST: Down under