80 Years of Diplomatic Relations Australia and Brazil Gala Dinner

Minister for Multiculturalism, Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Honourable Fiona Simpson MP; Representing the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Councillor Vicki Howard; Member for Scenic Rim, Mr Jon Krause MP; Shadow Minister for Immigration, Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Senator Paul Scarr; Representing Mayor, City of Gold Coast, Deputy Mayor of City of Gold Coast, Councillor Mark Hammel; Dean of the Consular Corps of Queensland, Mr Andres Arroyo Gorriaran and Members, including of course our host, the Honorary Consul for Brazil in Queensland and CEO of Australia-Brazil Chamber of Commerce and Brazil Week, Ms Valeria Noleto; Vice President of the Australia-Brazil Chamber of Commerce, Mr Antonio Lovisi; distinguished guests.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here this evening.

Olá! Graeme and I are thrilled to join you all, at the inaugural Amazônico Gala Dinner, which as part of Brazil Week 2025, celebrates the close friendship that exists between our two countries, and the rich, diverse and energetic spirit that defines Brazil.

Eighty years ago, at the end of the second World War, Australia established diplomatic relations with Brazil, and in the following year, opened an embassy in Rio De Janeiro—its first in Latin America—which was paralleled by Brazil opening a legation in Canberra. This formalising of diplomatic ties was grounded in the knowledge, that as strategic allies in the Southern Hemisphere, both countries offered each other enormous opportunities for trade.

Since that time, the numbers of Embassies, Consulate-Generals, and Honorary Consuls on both sides of the Pacific Ocean have extended to include representation in numerous localities, which highlights the vibrancy and potential of business and commercial activities, underpinned by a shared vision for a prosperous future.

Alongside the development of key sectors, such as energy, technology, agriculture, mining, and education, the exchange of cultural commodities, has enlivened both of our countries.

The influence of Brazilian innovation, style and vitality expressed through fashion, food and entertainment, is so beneficial to the richness of multicultural life here; while each year more Australians visit Brazil to experience its unique natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.   

In 1891, Australia could only boast 138 Brazilian immigrants in the Colonial Census, whereas we now count almost 47,000 Brazilians amongst our residents, with Queensland proudly home to many, and the numbers growing.

Such close ties are only possible with the support and enthusiasm of people on the ground, who believe in the passionate spirit of connection, and do all they can to enhance it. For this, we must especially thank Ms Valeria Noleto, who as Honorary Consul for Brazil in Queensland, and the CEO of the Australia-Brazil Chamber of Commerce works tirelessly to promote the possibilities that come from greater collaboration.

It was Ms Noleto’s vision that saw the first Brazil Week come to fruition in Brisbane four years ago—an event that coincided with Brazil’s 200 Years of Independence—and Graeme and I were so proud to be part of that celebration.

Working with Ms Noleto, is a group of dedicated people, many of whom are volunteers, who give their time and expertise… and of course, crucial to the success of Brazil Week nationwide, is the support of the Australia Brazil Chamber of Commerce, which, since 1978, has been forging stronger ties between our two countries, promoting the benefits that partnerships bring, and building a broader sense of community between us.

Tonight’s special dinner is also supported by our respective Embassies in Brasília and Canberra, and I acknowledge the tremendous contributions our diplomats make to assisting citizens and to furthering our valuable bonds.

Please enjoy this wonderful chance to connect, as we revel in all things Brazil!