The Australia China Business Council (ACBC) hosted its 20th annual Canberra Networking Day (CND) on September 12, 2024, at Parliament House, bringing together leading business figures, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of Australia-China relations. Accru Felsers Partners, Steven Zabeti and Jean Zhang, attended the event. With the theme “Capability, Opportunity, and Ambition”, the focus was on enhancing the economic partnership between the two nations, to take collaborative steps in shaping the future of Australia-China relations and capitalising on their economic potential.
ACBC President David Olsson AM opened the event by reflecting and highlighting on the importance of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA), which has helped increase bilateral trade to $325 billion in 2024. The event sessions covered key topics like decarbonisation, geopolitics, and regional cooperation, focusing on how businesses can navigate these challenges and leverage opportunities.
In addition to the formal discussions, the event celebrated the contributions of Chinese Australians in strengthening bilateral relations. ACBC also hosted the HSBC Executive Dinner at the National Gallery of Australia on September 11, where Rio Tinto CEO Kellie Parker delivered a keynote address. The dinner, featuring a menu by chef Adam Liaw, provided an opportunity for networking.
