On 18 May 2026, the Institute for Integrated Development Studies, in collaboration with the Australian Embassy in Nepal, organised a dissemination programme to present key findings from its study on the Nepali diaspora in Australia. The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shishir Khanal, and the Australian Ambassador to Nepal, His Excellency Simon Ernst, along with policymakers, academics, and private sector representatives reflecting a shared interest in strengthening diaspora engagement within Nepal’s development framework. The discussions extended beyond a narrow focus on remittances and emphasised the broader significance of diaspora Capital, skills, and transnational networks.
The presentations highlighted the rapid expansion and evolving profile of the Nepali community in Australia. The diaspora was positioned as an important link between the two countries, with the potential to contribute to economic and institutional development. While there is a strong willingness among Nepalis in Australia to engage with Nepal, the discussions identified a clear gap between intent and actual participation, articularly in terms of investment. The need to reconceptualise migration as a sustained and structured partnership was emphasised, with a focus on knowledge exchange, skills transfer, and institutional collaboration. Overall, the event reinforced the view that, with the appropriate policy environment, the Nepali diaspora in Australia can serve as a strategic partner in advancing investment, innovation, and deeper bilateral cooperation.
The programme highlighted the growing importance of the Nepali diaspora in Australia as a strategic partner in Nepal’s development process. The discussions eflected a clear shift in perspective, from viewing migration primarily through the lens of remittances to recognising the broader contributions of diaspora communities in terms of knowledge, skills, and global networks. This evolving understanding underscores the need to integrate diaspora engagement more firmly within national development priorities.
Read More:- Event Report_Nepali Diaspora in Australia Launch