Speeches
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Taste of South Australia Reception, Jakarta
I’m delighted to be here in Jakarta this evening, advancing the opportunities for South Australia and Indonesia to work side-by-side to drive economic growth and job creation.
This evening, we have the pleasure of experiencing some of South Australia’s premium food, wines and beverages across a beautifully curated menu.
Food and wine are just two - if particularly enjoyable – examples of
collaborative trade and investment opportunities between South Australia and Indonesia.
South Australia is proud to produce some of the world’s finest agricultural products, produced with globally leading standards of sustainable and innovative farming.
The preservation of our environment, and our decarbonisation agenda, is driving, not hindering, our economic prosperity.
Our efforts are underpinned by world class R&D such as Adelaide University’s Waite Campus, which is home to the largest concentration of agriculture and wine research and teaching expertise in the Southern Hemisphere.
SA is home to a thriving meat and livestock industry, recognised worldwide for its premium quality and sustainable production practices, and we are proud to be serving South Australian beef from Thomas Foods International as part of tonight’s menu.
South Australian meat exporters stand ready to do business with Indonesia, as consumers increasingly seek premium food products.
In addition to being central to our state’s identity, South Australia’s agriculture, food and wine industries are our state’s largest export industry, and a cornerstone of our trade with Indonesia.
Food and agriculture are not just vital sectors for our respective economies – they are also areas where we share common ground and potential for growth.
Our proximity lessens transport times - improving security, freshness, shelf life and prices for consumers.
Our trade agreement unlocks more streamlined access and lower tariffs – creating more trade and investment opportunities.
We see potential for increased foreign direct investment in both directions.
By working together, we can create real win-win outcomes, boosting trade, creating jobs, and driving innovation in our agricultural sectors.
South Australia aims to position itself as your preferred partner for your growth into Australia across sectors such as food and agribusiness, critical and emerging technologies and education.
We do this on the back of a strong and growing economy in the face of unprecedented global geopolitical uncertainty.
SA continues to outperform other Australian jurisdictions, with sustained growth in consumer and business confidence, business conditions, increased capital investment and expenditure, and record‑low unemployment.
This has been recognised by the Business Council of Australia which has ranked SA as the best place in Australia to do business for 3 years running.
South Australia is committed to forming stronger and more productive partnerships with Indonesia that grow our respective economies and creates jobs, together.
Tonight, as you enjoy a glass of South Australia’s premium wine, a cut of beef or some fresh produce, I hope you will take the time to mix business with pleasure.
I encourage all of you to seek out new connections this evening that will create opportunities for the benefit of both our regions.
Thank you all for your support for this evening’s event and I look forward to us all furthering the relationship between South Australia and Indonesia.
Thank you.