Dinner in Support of the German Hydrogen Industry Delegation

Federal German Minister of Education and Research, The Honourable Bettina Stark-Watzinger; Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, The Honourable Leanne Linard MP; distinguished delegates representing the German Hydrogen Industry; Vice-Chancellors and Deputy Vice-Chancellors; Deputy Director-Generals; Chief Executive, QIMR Berghofer; Acting CEO, Trade and Investment Queensland; ladies and gentlemen, welcome. 

I begin by acknowledging the original custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and extend respectful greetings to Elders, past, present, and emerging.

Graeme and I are delighted to host tonight’s dinner at Government House and congratulate you all on finalising the historic HySupply Agreement, that will see our two countries joining forces to create a cleaner, more sustainable global future, to the benefit of many.

This Agreement is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when we work together with a shared vision to effect positive change—despite being located in different hemispheres!

As Governor of Queensland, I am especially proud that this State has been at the forefront of the green hydrogen movement in Australia.

We have the resources and know-how required for its production and export, and I am sure that these valuable commodities, combined with the immense technological expertise and commitment that Germany provides, will ensure that the HySupply partnership is an outstanding success in terms of trade and investment, and also another vital step on the pathway to a carbon neutral world.   

I commend all from the German delegation, represented by Professor Dr Robert Schlögl and Mr Holger Lösch who have long championed the benefits of green hydrogen and its potential, ably supported by their incredible team.

And I also pay tribute to those in Queensland who have worked tirelessly to see the Agreement be realised, ensuring that our State is in a strong and capable position as it enters this new, cutting-edge industry—one which will contribute significantly to our prosperity.

Today’s important development, along with other initiatives including research and training, will ensure we are all contributing to “renewing” the world we live in.

These are exciting times, and—as we further strengthen our bilateral friendship—on behalf of all Queenslanders, wish you all every success.

Thank you.