Invest and Trade Western Australia together with the Centre of Australia-India Relations (CAIR) recently hosted a program of events which brought together Indian and Western Australian businesses to discuss technology and innovation.

The events set the stage for the West Test cricket match, which was held from, 22 November 2024 at Optus Stadium, and marked the first game of a five-match Test series between Australia and India. 

The India Connect Symposium and Western Australian Sundowner allowed business leaders, government representatives, and industry experts to explore opportunities for deeper collaboration between WA and India.

India Connect Symposium: Driving Innovation and Trade

At the historic WACA Ground, delegates gathered for the India Connect Symposium to discuss how innovation and technology can further strengthen ties between the two regions.

Highlights of the Symposium included:

• A keynote speech by Ronnie Fahy, CEO of Xplorate, emphasizing the importance of cross-border collaboration in technology and innovation.
• A thought-provoking panel discussion, moderated by Professor Gordon Flake, featuring experts from Forge Innovation & Ventures, GMR Group, and Curtin University.
• Opportunities for delegates to network and identify synergies in renewable energy, digital transformation, and advanced manufacturing.

The Symposium underscored India’s role as a key market for WA under its Investment and Trade Plan, with discussions highlighting complementary capabilities and areas of growth.

Western Australia Sundowner: Networking with a View

Later in the evening, over 120 guests gathered at Goodwood Restaurant, Optus Stadium, for the Western Australia Sundowner, a networking event with stunning views of Perth’s skyline.

The Sundowner celebrated the partnership between WA and India, blending business discussions with cultural moments, including a Welcome to Country by Whadjuk Noongar Elder Barry Winmar and a captivating musical performance by Praaz Duo.

Key speakers included:

• Hon Jackie Jarvis MLC, who highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with India.
• Adam Gilchrist AM, former Australian cricket captain and CAIR Advisory Board member, who reflected on the role of cricket in fostering cultural and economic partnerships.
• Tim Thomas, CEO of CAIR, and Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, who discussed the importance of international collaboration in sport and business.

The day also highlighted Western Australia’s growing calendar of globally significant events, including WA Space Week (held from 26–29 November) and West Tech Fest (2–6 December).

Published on: 02 December 2024

Technology & Advanced Manufacturing