[1] It is believed that the Tamils could have reached Australia in the 14th century coming from the areas of present-day India and Sri Lanka.

Prime Ministers Sir Robert Menzies, Gough Whitlam and Tony Abbott have visited Sri Lanka.

In October 2008, Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith told his Sri Lankan counterpart that military action alone will not solve the dispute with the Tamil separatists.

[4] In May 2009, Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said that Sri Lanka should seek a political solution with the Tamils to stop another generation turning to terrorism.

Since then, the teams have been fierce rivals culminating in them facing off in the 1996 Cricket World Cup final where Sri Lanka won in a huge underdog victory.

This decision sparked significant debate regarding the legality of Muralitharan's bowling style, which involved an unusual wrist and arm motion.

The incident led to protests from the Sri Lankan team and ignited discussions about the rules governing bowling actions in cricket.

Tea and other foods, textiles, clothing, rubber, iron and steel which are the main imports from Sri Lanka.

[8] In April 2009, the Australian Government announced a further A$4.5 million of humanitarian aid to assist the end of the civil war in Sri Lanka.