an artist's rendition of the pavilion

Australia has allocated A$83 million (US$76 million) for its participation in the 2010 World Expo, Australian Minister for Trade Simon Crean announced last week as he highlighted the government's enormous involvement in the event.

"The scale of our participation reflects the government's intention to take full advantage of this opportunity to promote increased trade and two-way investment and to help Australian companies grab market share in China."

"We cannot afford not to be a part of Shanghai Expo," he said.

He noted that the pavilion will showcase Australian capability, innovation and achievement to 38,000 people each day.

Shanghai will also be the "perfect place" for the international launch of the "Building Brand Australia," a global campaign aimed to deliver a boost for Australia's global image which is scheduled for May, Crean said.

The pavilion will host an array of exhibitions, more than 200 business events, a diverse cultural program of daily performances and a grand concert.

Some 3,700 applications have been submitted for 180 positions to work at the pavilion, showing the level of interest amongst young Australians and Chinese in this event.

"Through Shanghai Expo, we will highlight our strengths, showcase emerging sectors and strengthen institutional links with China. The states and territories, led by Victoria and Queensland, will be active partners in showcasing Australian capability," Crean said.