On 21 October 2004, Assistant Foreign Minister Shen Guofang of the People's Republic of China and Australian Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade Dr. Geoff Raby co-chaired the 8th China-Australia Human Rights Dialogue in Canberra. Officials from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Supreme People's Court, CPC United Front Works Department, Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of Justice, State Ethnic Affairs Commission and All-China Women's Federation participated in the dialogue vis-à-vis Australian officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Attorney-General.

The two sides exchanged opinions in an in-depth way on their respective positive efforts to promote a protect human rights, rights of women and children, ethnic minorities and international human rights cooperation. Both sides held that the protection and promotion of human rights is a long-term task, for which countries around the world should make unremitting efforts in light of their respective national conditions. Measures should be taken to protect such special social groups as ethnic minorities and at the same time protecting their unique cultural heritage. International cooperation should be strengthened in combating the trafficking of women and children. International human rights cooperation should be actively carried out for better mutual understanding and common progress. The two sides together approved the Human Rights Joint Technical Cooperation Program for 2004 to 2005. Assistant Minister Shen's delegation also met with representatives of Australian NGOs.

On the same day, Assistant Minister Shen and Deputy Secretary Raby hosted a joint press conference and issued a joint press statement. Both sides considered the dialogue positive, constructive and fruitful.

On 22 October, Australian Foreign Minister Downer met with Assistant Minister Shen's delegation and the two sides exchanged opinions on bilateral relations and human rights. Minister Downer reiterated Australia's adherence to the "One China Policy" and opposition to Taiwan independence.