Boosting the capability of Australian businesses in Asia

A new strategic partnership to empower Australian businesses.

20 November 2024

A new strategic partnership to empower Australian businesses to enter and succeed in Asian markets has been signed, between the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), and Asialink Business, Australia’s National Centre for Asia Capability.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed today in Canberra, Austrade and Asialink Business, which is hosted by the University of Melbourne, will leverage their combined expertise and networks to deliver comprehensive support to Australian businesses, particularly SMEs, looking to engage in Asia.

The partnership will have a strong emphasis on building capability and awareness of markets in Southeast Asia and South Asia.

Austrade and Asialink Business will jointly engage in a range of initiatives under this partnership, including:

  • Awareness and Knowledge Building: Joint campaigns, events, and the Asialink Business Doing Business Guides—accessible via Austrade’s Go Global Toolkit—will equip Australian businesses with essential insights for success in Asia.
  • Capability Uplift: Asialink Business’s targeted learning programs to upskill businesses, will build a pipeline of Asia-ready exporters, accessible via Austrade’s trade mission programs and promoted widely through Austrade’s digital channels for maximum reach and impact.
  • Ecosystem Collaboration: Together, Austrade and Asialink Business will activate a robust partner network, including state trade agencies, industry bodies, business councils, and diaspora communities to foster greater capacity within Australia’s trade ecosystem.

Quotes attributable to Austrade Acting CEO Daniel Boyer

“We are focussed on helping Australian businesses build their knowledge and capability in key sectors across Asia, including in the digital and green economies, agrifood, consumer goods, and education.

“This partnership will help more businesses, faster, to understand the value and enormous opportunity of Asia, particularly in Southeast and South Asia, as Australia strengthens its economic ties with the region.

“The MOU reflects a shared vision for Australia’s economic future, fostering an Asia-capable business community that contributes to national prosperity by building lasting ties with our closest neighbours.

“The partnership aligns with the Australian Government’s Invested: Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, with a strong emphasis on Southeast Asia and South Asia — key regions in Australia’s future.”

Quotes attributable to Asialink Business CEO Leigh Howard

"Asialink Business is delighted to partner with Austrade to support Australian businesses’ growth ambitions in Asia. This partnership is an exciting opportunity for Asialink Business to elevate our impact by aligning with Austrade’s scale and reach.

“By combining the strengths of two trusted organisations, we’re not just providing tools and resources, but creating a connected pathway that builds confidence, capability, and success for Australian businesses in Asia. Together, our practical and accessible insights and programs will empower Australian businesses to navigate the complexities of Asia, unlocking the region’s immense potential and supporting growth ambitions for businesses across every stage of their export journey.”

Media enquiries

Media contact – Austrade

Email: media@austrade.gov.au

Phone: +612 9392 2873

Media contact – Asialink Business

Victoria Graham, Marketing Activation Manager

Email: victoria.graham@asialinkbusiness.com.au

Phone: +612 407 961 469 

About the Australian Trade and Investment Commission 

The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) helps grow Australia’s prosperity by delivering quality trade and investment services to businesses, accelerates growth in Australia’s tourism sector and promotes Australia’s education to the world. Go further, faster with austrade.gov.au.

About Asialink Business

Asialink Business is Australia’s National Centre for Asia Capability. We equip businesses with the insights and skills to seize opportunities in Asia.

Asialink Business offers commercially focused solutions. Our practical training programs, tailored insights and advisory services, advocacy and events, empower organisations to navigate the Asia business landscape with confidence. 

Established in 2013, Asialink Business is supported by the Australian Government, Department of Industry, Science and Resources. We are proudly part of Asialink, Australia’s leading centre for engagement with Asia, hosted by the University of Melbourne.

Visit www.asialinkbusiness.com.au/business/