Reception to mark the 80th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Australia and the Philippines

Representing the Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Minister for Multiculturalism, Dr Christian Rowan MP; Ambassador of the Philippines, His Excellency Mr Antonio Albero Morales; Representing the Leader of the Queensland Opposition, Mrs Charis Mullen MP; Assistant Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, the Honourable Amanda Stoker MP; Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Student Attraction, Mr Hermann Vorster MP; Governor, Cebu Provincial Capital, the Honourable Pam Baricuatro; Member of the Philippines House of Representatives, the Honourable Irene Labadlabad; Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, His Grace the Most Reverend Shane Mackinlay; Consul-General of the Philippines, Ms Sheila Tario; Members of the Queensland Consular Corps; Directors General; Mayors and Deputy Mayors; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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 today.

Graeme and I welcome you all most warmly to Government House this afternoon, to celebrate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and the Philippines.

Before I continue, may I also acknowledge the devastating earthquake that struck Mindanao earlier this week, and extend our deepest sympathies to all those who have lost loved ones, been injured, or been otherwise affected by this tragedy.

While the connection between our two countries began long before the 22nd of May 1946—when the Australian Consulate General office first opened in Manila—this event formalised a strategic relationship between our two countries that had been forged during World War II, with Australians fighting alongside Filipinos, to liberate the country from occupation.

Each year, Philippines-Australia Friendship Day, gives us the opportunity to reflect on the historic and contemporary influences that have shaped our relationship, and to appreciate the value our two countries bring to each another. 

Our bilateral bond is founded on mutual trust, respect and a shared determination to ensure peace and prosperity in the Pacific region, and to help each other in times of need.

And this bond is underpinned by a deep sense of cooperation across a wide range of areas, including defence, trade, investment and business, cultural exchange, education and tourism.

In our state, we are home to over 70,000 people with Filipino ancestry—which is one of Queensland’s largest and fastest growing communities—while across our nation, this figure extends to 400,0005.

The Filipino diaspora is active and engaged—contributing substantially to Queensland’s fortunes—which are counted not just in economic terms—but in the rich and beneficial impact of cultural expression, which makes our communities so much more vibrant.

This month has already seen a number of events take place across out state, to mark the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence, and these festivals enliven our communities, and bring joy to many, with their feast of music, dance, and cuisine—as Filipinos are well known for their enthusiasm and warm hearts, and we very much benefit from this positive influence.

Filipino people here bring valuable skills to the Australian workforce, while in the Philippines, over 250 Australian companies are in operation, providing employment across diverse sectors.

The success of our relationship relies on the input of individuals, working hard within our public services, the private sector, and in our communities, to support and strengthen the broader network that powers it.

I take this opportunity to acknowledge the important role of the Philippine Consulate in Queensland, who by supporting Filipino people in this state, and raising awareness of the significant contribution they are making, are furthering opportunities that benefit all.

I also pay tribute to the wisdom and expertise of the business community, which is doing so much to encourage understanding, innovation, and growth, as well as not-for-profit organisations, such as the Sunshine Coast Sambayan, which are ensuring Filipinos who are new to Queensland, feel supported.

We have come a long way since the 19th century brought the “Manila men” of the pearling industry to our shores, as our first Filipino immigrants. Our two countries stood together in a time of immense global struggle, and in the eight decades since, have developed a relationship built on shared values and aspirations that will create a better future for all.

Thank you all for your participation in this worthy process.