The Australia Zimbabwe Business Council (AZBC) is proud to have participated in the Australian Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Inquiry into Strengthening Australia’s Trade and Investment Relations with Africa.
As part of the inquiry process, AZBC lodged an official submission outlining practical opportunities to strengthen trade, investment, workforce mobility, agribusiness, education, tourism, and strategic partnerships between Australia and African nations. The submission highlighted Africa’s growing importance as a strategic partner for Australia and the significant role the continent can play in supporting Australia’s future workforce needs, economic growth, and international engagement.
This contribution reflects AZBC’s ongoing commitment to fostering stronger commercial, cultural, and diplomatic ties between Australia, Zimbabwe, and the broader African continent.
Strengthening Australia–Africa Partnerships
Africa is one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, presenting significant opportunities for Australian businesses, investors, educational institutions, and government agencies. Through its submission, AZBC advocated for a more proactive and strategic approach to engagement with African nations, recognising the mutual benefits that can be achieved through stronger collaboration.
Key Recommendations Presented by AZBC
AZBC’s submission focused on several priority areas designed to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation:
- Strengthening Australia–Africa trade and investment partnerships
- Expanding workforce mobility and skilled migration pathways
- Promoting agribusiness collaboration and food security initiatives
- Supporting education, training, and skills development programs
- Increasing bilateral trade missions and investment opportunities
- Leveraging the expertise, networks, and knowledge of the African diaspora community in Australia
These recommendations aim to create sustainable economic opportunities while strengthening people-to-people connections between Australia and African nations.
A Voice for the Zimbabwean and African Business Community
Participation in this parliamentary inquiry demonstrates AZBC’s role as a trusted advocate for business, investment, and diaspora engagement. By contributing directly to national policy discussions, AZBC continues to ensure that the perspectives and opportunities arising from Australia–Africa relations are recognised at the highest levels of government.
The Council believes that deeper engagement with Africa will deliver substantial benefits for Australia, including access to emerging markets, investment opportunities, workforce development, innovation partnerships, and enhanced international cooperation.
Access the Official Parliamentary Records
Members, stakeholders, and interested members of the public can access the official parliamentary documents through the Australian Parliament website:
AZBC Submission (PDF)
View the official submission lodged by the Australia Zimbabwe Business Council:
https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=939f0882-cfb7-40f8-9323-352b76a63105&subId=781301
Parliamentary Hearing Record (Hansard)
View the official parliamentary hearing transcript:
https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;adv=yes;db=COMMITTEES;id=committees%2Fcommjnt%2F29510%2F0003
Inquiry Submissions Page
View all submissions received by the Committee:
https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Foreign_Affairs_Defence_and_Trade/AfricaTrade/Submissions
Looking Ahead
AZBC thanks the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade for the opportunity to contribute to this important national discussion. The Council looks forward to continuing to work with government, industry leaders, investors, and community stakeholders to strengthen Australia–Africa economic relations and unlock new opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration.
As Australia continues to deepen its engagement with Africa, AZBC remains committed to building meaningful partnerships that deliver long-term benefits for businesses, communities, and future generations.
Evans Mukonza
President
Australia Zimbabwe Business Council (AZBC)
