The 2001 Centenary of Federation in Australia provided an ideal opportunity for the European Commission to join with The Australian National University to establish a National Europe Centre in the Australian Capital Territory, creating an active, commemorative contribution from the peoples of the European Union to the peoples of Australia. This gift to the Australian nation created a unique focal institution to complement and join together universities and national institutions committed to promoting and developing local, national and international outreach, pursuing academic excellence and cultivating the relationship between Australia and Europe.

The Centre's pivotal national role in extending and fostering this relationship between Australia and Europe has been achieved by supporting European studies in Australian universities, fostering and promoting a greater understanding of Europe and the European Union in public and private institutions and allowing scholars the chance to research and explore new facets of Australian and European knowledge.

The adoption of a work program which includes a busy schedule of workshops, seminars, public lectures and conferences, and the facilitation of research projects through the appointment of highly qualified scholars throughout the year, means the Centre is recognised as a key player in strengthening relations with Europe.

The Centre enjoys a close relationship with the Delegation of the European Commission to Australia and New Zealand and the Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates representing not only the EU and accession states but also the wider European community. The Centre has also developed significant links to government departments such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Education, Science and Training. As part of the Australian National University the Centre has worked closely with many University institutions, schools, faculties and centres, particularly the Humanities Research Centre at The Australian National University. The National Europe Centre prides itself on being a unique institution in Australia, bringing together in an accessible and scholarly environment various sections of the community to promote understanding of Europe in Australia.

The vision of the National Europe Centre is to promote sophisticated dialogue across disciplines of European study, as well as borders. The Centre seeks to enhance understanding between Europe, the EU and Australia around the principal areas of research, education and outreach.