Geographically, Australia is part of the region known as the Asia-Pacific Region. A region is a human concept that can be mapped and analysed. (Definition: Regions are identified as having something in common that identifies them, such as a type of government, spoken language, landforms, or location). The region of the Asia-Pacific identified by the location of nations bordering on or within the Pacific Ocean. This program examines the geographic and economic characteristics of nations in the Asia Pacific Region. It also explores the impending threat from climate change for many of its low-lying island nations. As a result of Australias proximity and relative prosperity to other nations in this region, Australia has the opportunity to play a major role with regard to aid, foreign policy, trade, immigration and tourism. This region is well known for its political instability, and forging close links with Governments in the region is important to Australias national interest. Specifically, this program spells out Australia's role with regard to aid, trade, foreign policy, immigration and tourism in the Asia-Pacific Region. It also explores the close relationship Australia has with New Zealand.