Speeches
Thursday, 22 May 2025
StudyAdelaide – Agent Briefing Session
Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen.
I am thrilled to be back in Vietnam and Hanoi. This is my second visit as Governor of South Australia, and I carry fond memories with me from my first visit in 2022.
Education is the cornerstone of many bilateral relationships.
Throughout my career, I have witnessed how student exchanges and shared experiences create lasting bonds between countries. Even before becoming Governor of South Australia, I engaged in international education and recognised the value of these connections—some remain strong even to this day.
For this reason, I am proud to be supporting the initiatives of the South Australian government and South Australia’s world-class education system, and a vibrant international education sector.
South Australia is deeply committed to strengthening its partnership with Vietnam and supporting Vietnamese students, whether they engage with South Australian programs like SACE here in Vietnam or study in Adelaide.
Vietnamese students form our state’s fourth-largest international student cohort and greatly enrich life in Adelaide and beyond. They excel academically and contribute meaningfully to our community, with many going on to receive StudyAdelaide International Student Awards.
We recognise the significant economic and cultural contributions that Vietnamese students studying in Adelaide make to our community. Today, we also want to acknowledge the vital role that our counsellors from SACE schools and education agents play in promoting and advocating for Adelaide as a study destination.
Adelaide is a vibrant, multicultural city that offers a high quality of life and a welcoming community. It is home to international students from over 130 countries. The presence of diverse cultures enhances our state and city, and I invite every Vietnamese student contemplating studying abroad to consider South Australia.
Our education system is world-class, and continues to evolve to offer the best student experience. Beyond the classroom, our city offers a safe and friendly atmosphere that allows students to focus on their studies and personal growth—while enjoying a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a supportive community.
South Australia’s economy is transforming, and many of our fastest-growing industries are seeing strong investment, including renewable energy, creative industries, high-tech, agribusiness, and space. I know many of these industries are also areas of growing strengths and focus for Vietnam, such as critical technologies and renewable energy.
South Australia has established innovation precincts at Lot Fourteen, Tonsley Innovation District, and Adelaide BioMed City. These precincts are home to global companies and startups, all located just minutes from the university campuses.
This proximity is more than just a convenience — it enables students to gain hands-on experience and exposure to global companies, and engage with future employers, during their studies.
In South Australia, we are proud of not only our access to industries but also the exceptional international education sector that is driven by passion, care, and authenticity.
We recognise that studying overseas presents both exciting opportunities, and challenging aspects too. Study Adelaide has developed a comprehensive support program to ensure that these international students are supported throughout their entire experience, from their applications through to finding employment. Our commitment to supporting international students is demonstrated by the more than 1,000 events that StudyAdelaide delivers each year.
As patron of StudyAdelaide, I observe firsthand the genuine commitment of the South Australian government and community to support Vietnamese students during their time in Adelaide.
Thank you for your attendance. As education agents and counsellors from SACE schools, you play a crucial role as ambassadors of Adelaide, promoting our universities, colleges, and schools, and guiding young people in choosing Adelaide as their study destination.
Thank you also for strengthening the link between South Australia and Vietnam. We value your contributions in helping Adelaide welcome Vietnamese students and support their success.