In recent years, the diplomatic landscape between Australia and France has witnessed a remarkable transformation, driven by the determined leadership of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and French President Emmanuel Macron. Their shared vision for a stable, prosperous Indo-Pacific has paved the way for a revitalised bilateral partnership that extends far beyond traditional diplomacy into security, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
Through the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FACCI) Western Australia, we have had the distinct privilege of contributing to this dynamic Franco-Australian alliance. This journey has been inspired by a deep passion for both nations, a bond further strengthened by entrepreneurial experiences like founding Hexagone few years ago, a restaurants venture in Perth that has connected stakeholders to the diverse cultures and business environments of both countries.
Rebuilding Trust Through Strategic Engagement
The renewal of ties between Australia and France stands as a testament to their mutual commitment to regional peace and stability. Following the challenging period surrounding the 2021 submarine contract cancellation, both nations have prioritised restoring trust through intensive diplomatic engagement and reinforced collaboration across multiple sectors.
Through FACCI WA, we have been at the forefront of facilitating meaningful dialogue spanning government, industry, and community stakeholders. This evolving alliance exemplifies the blend of diplomatic foresight and commercial pragmatism required to address complex challenges such as geopolitical instability, the accelerating climate crisis, and the dynamic digital economy.
In April 2025, a landmark tripartite exchange brought together French Secretary of State for Francophonie and International Partnerships, Mr. Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, and French Ambassador to Australia, Mr. Pierre-André Imbert, alongside Western Australian businesses and First Nations representatives. The successful coordination of this event exemplified the multifaceted cooperation essential to deepening diplomatic and commercial ties, demonstrating how strategic partnerships must embrace cultural respect and inclusive engagement.
Driving Innovation Through Commercial Collaboration
The commercial dimension of this partnership has been particularly rewarding to witness and facilitate. French excellence across sectors is remarkably evident through the engagement of industry leaders like ATOS in digital transformation, Dassault Systèmes in advanced manufacturing solutions, EDF Renewables in clean energy infrastructure, Alstom in transport and energy infrastructure, Technip Energies in sustainable industrial projects, Accor in hospitality innovation, Sodexo in facilities management, Capgemini in technology consulting, and BNP Paribas in financial services. Alongside TotalEnergies and Australian firms, these partnerships are deepening ties through strategic investments in sustainable infrastructure and energy projects, reflecting mutual ambitions to drive green economic growth while enhancing regional resilience.
Through FACCI WA's initiatives, high-profile industry events have spotlighted WA's emerging role as a global leader in green hydrogen and critical minerals supply chains. Projects like the Yuri Project in the Pilbara illustrate how Franco-Australian collaboration can drive innovation, sustainable economic growth, and international market development, firmly positioning both countries at the vanguard of the clean energy transition.
The Chamber also facilitated the welcome of a distinguished French delegation led by Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, Interministerial Delegate for Supplies of Strategic Minerals and Metals, to the Western Australian Parliament. This event, hosted by honored political figures and attended by senior French and Australian officials, underscored the importance of strategic mineral investments and the shared vision for a decarbonised future.
Fostering Cultural Understanding and Workplace Innovation
Recognising that progressive workplaces drive stronger economies, FACCI WA convened an exclusive C-suite lunch that highlighted France's leadership in workplace equality and inclusion, showcasing the impactful work of organisations like Arborus, a French champion of gender diversity in business, and their collaborations with Australian companies. These conversations go beyond policy to shape how companies innovate and compete globally in today's market.
Understanding the importance of reconciliation and cultural respect in building sustainable partnerships, the Chamber also coordinated a reconciliation workshop with Jonathan Ford and Danny Ford OAM from Kambarang Services. Participants were invited on a transformative journey through Noongar country, connecting the ancient custodianship of the land with ongoing commitments to social justice and authentic engagement between cultures.
This intersection of diplomatic commitment and commercial investment signals both countries' dedication to translating ambitious goals into tangible outcomes. The depth of French expertise across technology, energy, aerospace, hospitality, and financial services demonstrates that France's excellence and innovation are truly au rendez-vous for this new era of collaboration, fostering regional resilience while strengthening people-to-people connections that underpin durable international relations.
A Blueprint for Future Collaboration
As geopolitical complexities and global challenges mount, the Franco-Australian partnership demonstrates how like-minded nations can harness diplomacy, commerce, and culture to address the pressing needs of the 21st century. The August 2023 signing of the Australia, France Strategic Roadmap cemented this multifaceted partnership, aligning both countries around shared priorities that extend to the broader Indo-Pacific community.
Bridging French and Australian perspectives at these intersections has been among the most rewarding aspects of this work. The experience of facilitating dialogue between government stakeholders, multinational corporations, and local enterprises has reinforced the conviction that sustained Franco-Australian collaboration requires passion, insight, and an entrepreneurial spirit, qualities that define successful cross-cultural partnerships.
Through coordinated efforts at governmental, industrial, and civil society levels, Australia and France are collectively shaping a rules-based international order that safeguards sovereignty, promotes economic integration, and strengthens cultural ties. By integrating defense modernisation, sustainable economic development, and enriched cultural exchanges, both nations are not only securing their own interests but contributing to a prosperous and environmentally sustainable Indo-Pacific.
Looking Forward
As the next chapter unfolds beyond FACCI WA, the profound lessons and relationships built across sectors remain a testament to what collaborative engagement can achieve. The Franco-Australian partnership is poised to remain a cornerstone of regional stability and prosperity, its success depending on the continuous engagement of committed individuals and organisations who understand that diplomacy, commerce, culture, and community are interconnected pillars of global cooperation.
The opportunity to continue leveraging expertise in cross-cultural business development, strategic partnerships, and stakeholder engagement represents an exciting prospect for strengthening these two great nations in new contexts. This new era of Franco-Australian collaboration offers valuable lessons for other countries seeking resilient alliances amid an evolving global order, and there remains much work to be done in contributing to its continued success.
The strategic accord forged by our leaders, supported by government agencies, industry pioneers, and civil society, epitomises a sophisticated model of international cooperation, one built on renewed trust, strategic vision, and shared responsibility for shaping the future of international relations in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
For organisations seeking to navigate the complexities of Franco-Australian partnerships or expand their cross-cultural business development capabilities, I welcome the opportunity to discuss how strategic stakeholder engagement can unlock new possibilities. Feel free to reach out to explore how we might collaborate in strengthening these vital international relationships.