In April, 1980, in context of the developing sister-state relationship and increasing links with China in many areas, a Victorian Government China Advisory Committee was established.

The Committee was to advise on ways and means of developing and broadening all aspects of mutual assistance between Victoria and Jiangsu Province.

The Committee operated independently but in liaison with the Victorian government Export Advisory Committee. The two Committees were formed to help Victorias participation in programmes undertaken under the sister-state relationship.

The Committee received policy and administrative support from the Overseas Division of the Department of Premier and Cabinet and an officer of that Division was the Committees Secretary. The Committee reported directly to the Premier.

The functions of the China Committee included :

* Advice to Government on all matters concerning the Peoples Republic of China.
* To receive from Government specific projects in relation to the P.R.C.
* To assist the Government and citizens of Victoria on all matters of export, import, tourism and culture.
* To advise all concerned in trade with China.