On the 15th November, it was announced that The University of Sydney has been selected to host the new United States Studies Centre. The new think tank, which will be Australia's leading centre on political, economic and cultural issues, will be based at the University's main campus.

The University of Sydney was chosen after a rigorous selection process run by the board of the American Australian Association to which all Australian universities were invited to make submissions.

The new Centre, which will have its own Governing Board of Directors, has been established with the specific purpose of deepening the appreciation and understanding of the United States' culture, political climate and government and strengthening the relationship between both countries.

The University of Sydney has over 1,200 alumni living and working in the USA. One of the North American alumni chapters (SUGUNA) has been holding annual two day conferences at major academic centres through the US and Canada for over 15 years.

Professor Gavin Brown, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sydney, said,"This is a Centre for all of Australia. The University of Sydney is honoured to host it."

This is an opportunity to be part of history. It has never been more important for Australians to gain a better understanding of the United states – and now you can help bring the two countries together. Gifts directed to the US Studies Centre will open up a new intellectual and cultural dialogue and help cement the US-Australia alliance.