24 APRIL 2024, BRISBANE – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega met Queensland State Minister for Tourism and Sport Hon. Michael Healy MP and Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) CEO Justin McGowan on 22 April 2024 and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and the State of Queensland.

The Ambassador briefed Minister Healy and Mr. McGowan on the Philippines- Australia Strategic Partnership announced in 2023 and the important role the State of Queensland can play in advancing cooperation in trade, education and skills, and science and innovation cooperation under the Plan of Action 2023-2026.

Recognizing the large population of Filipinos who call Queensland home, Minister Michael Healy stated that Queensland’s connection to the Philippines is strong and growing. The Minister noted potential opportunities for bilateral collaboration especially as Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympics.

TIQ CEO Justin McGowan looked forward to growing economic cooperation with the Philippines, including through participation in the Investment Deals Team which was announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the launch of Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 in September 2023.

There are more than 73,000 Filipinos in Queensland and a Filipino student population of more than 6,500. Queensland hosts the third largest Filipino community across Australia. -- END