LUNCH WITH THE HON. MATT THISTLETHWAITE MP

Business Sydney, in conjunction with the Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ACCI), and proudly supported by Australian Made, hosted a highly successful luncheon attended by more than 120 business leaders to discuss one of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing our nation, managing Australia’s population growth.

We were honoured to welcome the Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Immigration and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, who shared valuable insights into the Federal Government’s priorities for strengthening trade and investment relationships across Asia, while highlighting the critical role skilled migration plays in supporting economic growth, workforce capability and Australia’s long-term prosperity.

A highlight of the event was an engaging fireside conversation between Minister Thistlethwaite and David Alexander, Chief of Policy and Advocacy at ACCI. Their discussion explored how migration settings can better align with industry needs, enhance Australia’s global competitiveness and support sustainable population planning for future generations.

Thank you to Nicki Anderson, Deputy Chair of Australian Made, for welcoming guests and introducing the Minister, and to Lyn Lewis-Smith OAM, Board Member of Business NSW, for delivering the vote of thanks and reinforcing the importance of continued dialogue on population planning, economic resilience and Australia’s future prosperity.

Australia’s future success depends on getting the balance right between population growth, workforce needs, infrastructure investment and economic opportunity. Forums such as these provide an invaluable platform for government and business to work together on the challenges and opportunities ahead.