National Foundation for Australia-China Relations Advisory Board Afternoon Tea

National Foundation for Australia China Relations CEO, Mr Gary Cowan; Chair, Ms Pru Bennett and members of the Advisory Board; distinguished guests.

 I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here today.

Graeme and I take great delight in welcoming you to Government House this afternoon.

Having recently returned from an official visit to China ourselves, where among other things we celebrated the 35^th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Queensland and Shanghai, we understand the importance of good bilateral relations that benefit both parties.

The National Foundation for Australia-China Relations is certainly a valuable organisation for building strong links to business and communities between our two countries, and it is one rich in talent across an array of disciplines.

The make-up of your Advisory Board brings together the finest of minds from a wide spectrum of sectors – business, academia, government, the arts, science, media - and your expertise channels directly into the purpose of strengthening understanding and engagement between Australia and China.

Whilst our visit took place over a relatively short period, it was commissioned with a similarly purposeful intent to yours – to enhance our ties, collaborate on ideas, and celebrate the exchange of culture with the goal of fostering deeper relations with China, all the while showcasing Australian excellence.

A most important element of the work of the Foundation is the issuing of grants to support a range of activities.

In this latest round, 27 grants have been awarded and encompass initiatives focussed on agriculture and tourism, climate change, energy and the environment; initiatives of utmost importance for both Australia and China.

Beyond those, it is also wonderful to see grants relating to the skills acquisition of the future generation of Chinese-Australian leaders, as well as programs to increase China literacy and the capability of scholars and young professionals to engage with China.

With Chinese Australians forming one of our biggest cultural groups, these initiatives are so valuable to our State and Nation and are to be applauded.

Once again, a warm welcome to Government House, and thank you for you do to strengthen the cooperation and collaboration between Australia and China.

May our relationship continue to grow and prosper.

Thank you.