On 7 October 2025, AJBC board members, Andrew Tan, Mayumi Laughton-Smith and Richard Sandover, were delighted to attend a function at Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club held by AJBC corporate member, Chalice Mining Limited. Minister for Mines and Petroleum, David Michael MLA, spoke about government resource, environment, and industrial policies. The function followed the successful 62nd Annual Australia–Japan Joint Business Conference in Perth. A range of executives from Japanese corporations attended. While Chalice shared an update on the Gonneville Project, its world-class palladium–nickel–copper development project in Western Australia and reported on progress of its advanced Pre-Feasibility Study, which remains on track for completion in November 2025.
Category: Events
Post Event Update: WA-Japan Conversation Series: September Networking event with Hon. Minister Dawson
The WA-Japan Conversation Series on ‘accelerating WA’s AI ambitions’ with Hon. Stephen Dawson, Minister for Science & Innovation, offered a powerful reminder of the deep, evolving partnership between the two innovation-driven partners.
Minister Dawson explored AI innovation in the context of autonomous technologies, clean technology, science, education and industry collaboration, before segueing to responsible tech adoption and data ethics.
From mining automation to medical diagnostics and space technology, it’s clear that AI is starting to shape our economy. And with 130+ space-related companies and 100+ digital health companies in WA, the momentum behind AI seems unstoppable.
Key takeaways:
🤖 WA’s strength as a global innovation hub and Japan’s ambition to be the world’s most AI-friendly nation makes us a natural fit.
🤖 $30b+ in bilateral trade is set to expand beyond iron ore and LNG, critical minerals and agriculture – into AI, clean energy, digital health and more.
🤖 The education sector is already preparing students and teachers for an AI-powered future.
🤖 Trust, transparency, and collaboration are key to responsible AI adoption.
🤖 Strong bilateral momentum for AI with WA already having a solid AI footprint in Japan and vice versa.
With AI technology taking centre stage at Expo 2025 Osaka and deals already being struck including the multi-million-dollar investment by Japan’s SoftBank Robotics Japan in icetana AI, the future is looking bright for WA-Japan’s AI ecosystem.
Thanks to all the minds, policymakers, researchers and businesses helping to drive AI forward. Let’s keep this dialogue going, so we can keep building on the exciting AI developments taking place in Japan and WA.
Thanks to all our speakers – including Minister Dawson, and KPMG’s James Arnott and Nano Axton – and our members, partners, and supporters in WA and abroad driving collaboration in AI.
AJBC dinner with the Premier, The Hon. Roger Cook MLA
Recently, we had the privilege of hosting WA Premier the Hon. Roger Cook, Consul-General of Japan in Perth, Mr Atsushi Karimata, and senior executives of Japanese companies, currently or prospectively engaged in WA projects.
Hosted by AJBCWA Chair Richard Sandover and Deputy-Chair Mayumi Laughton-Smith, in the beautiful surroundings of Sandalford Wines, the informal dinner provided a unique opportunity to connect Premier Cook with these key leaders.
Mr Sandover said that based on the constructive, thoughtful and lively discussion, “it was evident that a step had been taken towards advancing AJBCWA’s objective of enhancing the cultural and economic linkages between WA and Japan.”
WA-Japan Conversation Series: September Networking event with Hon. Minister Dawson on Accelerating WA’s AI ambitions
The Australia-Japan Business Council (AJBCWA) is delighted to host Hon. Stephen Dawson Minister for Science & Innovation, who will be sharing his unique insights into the WA Government’s vision and strategy for Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Proudly supported by professional services firm KPMG Australia, this unique and timely conversation will also explore the exciting opportunities that await WA in Japan’s quest to become the world’s most AI-friendly country. This unique and timely networking event is a can’t miss opportunity for Perth’s business community.
Date
Monday, 15 September 2025
Time
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Proceedings to commence at 6:00 pm
Price
Members ($55)
Non-Members ($75)
Tickets via Eventbrite
Refreshments
Beverages and canapes on arrival
Venue
KPMG
235 St. Georges Terrace, Perth
Parking
Perth Convention Centre
Post Event Update: WA-Japan Sundowner Series July Networking Event @ Willie Creek Pearls
Last week, the Australia-Japan Business Council of WA (AJBCWA) Sundowner Series brought together Perth’s dynamic Japanese business community for a memorable networking event hosted by Willie Creek Pearls at their stunning showroom on Elizabeth Quay.
We were delighted to welcome the new Consul-General of Japan in Perth, Mr. Karimata Atsushi, on a night that celebrated connection, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange.
Guests were treated to a one-of-a-kind live pearl harvesting experience, delicious canapes and champagne, and a chance to win an amazing door prize, all thanks to our fantastic host Willie Creek Pearls.
Blue Ocean Marine Tech System Group Managing Director Mike Deeks CSC shared how Blue Ocean is using AI to redefine defence from autonomous submarine drones to next-gen surveillance and environmental monitoring.
Mike’s decorated journey from Royal Australian Navy Commodore to Agent General for WA in the UK and Europe, and now MD of a cutting-edge marine technology company, left everyone wanting more.
Events like the AJBCWA Sundowner Series underscore the strength of the WA-Japan relationship. Big thank you to the Consul-General of Japan, Willie Creek Pearls, Blue Ocean Marine Tech Systems, our board, friends and members for making it an unforgettable night!
WA-Japan Sundowner Series July Networking Event @ Willie Creek Pearls
You are invited by the Australia Japan Business Council (WA) to an exclusive networking evening, proudly sponsored by Willie Creek Pearls at their elegant
Elizabeth Quay showroom.
Join us in welcoming the new Consul-General of Japan in Perth,
Mr. Karimata Atsushi, while enjoying a truly unique live pearl harvesting experience.
Savour exquisite canapés and champagne on arrival as you connect with fellow guests. Guests will also have the chance to win a fabulous door prize, courtesy of Willie Creek Pearls.
The evening will feature a special business showcase by Blue Ocean Marine Tech Systems, highlighting their innovative contribution to the marine technology sector.
Hear from Blue Ocean Group Managing Director Mike Deeks as he shares how the company is leveraging AI for defence applications, including the operation of autonomous submarine drones.
Blue Ocean develops cutting-edge autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and advanced software powering next-generation defence surveillance, environmental monitoring and subsea operations.
Prior to becoming Managing Director of Blue Ocean in 2021, Mike served as the Agent General for Western Australia in the United Kingdom and Europe, and completed a distinguished 32-year career in the Royal Australian Navy, retiring as a Commodore.
Date
Thursday, 31 July 2025
Time
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Proceedings commence at 6:00 pm
Price
Members ($60)
Non-Members ($85)
Refreshments
Canapes and champagne on arrival
Venue
Willie Creek Pearls,
Elizabeth Quay Showroom
Western Pavilion,
Valdura Place, Barrack Square, Perth
Parking
CPP Terrace Road and Wilson Parking Elizabeth Quay
RSVP
Thursday, 24th July 2025
Post Event Update: WA-Japan Conversations Series: May Networking Event with Hon. Colin Barnett AC
It was a night of sparkling dialogue, diplomacy and saké at the WA-Japan Conversation Series: Hon. Colin Barnett AC’s reflections on WA-Japan. “WA is open for business, but we need the right settings in place,” was a sentiment that echoed throughout the night.
We were delighted to welcome former WA Premier Hon. Colin Barnett AC, Deputy Mayor City of Perth Cr Bruce Reynolds, and Senior Members of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Mr Masahisa Miyazaki MP, and Mr Hiroaki Tabata MP.
Before exploring the ever-evolving strategic relationship between WA and Japan, guests enjoyed stimulating discussions energised by sparkling sake provided by Kodawari Sake’s Sandra Gwee.
Mr Barnett reflected on his path to Opposition Leader, evolution to Minister for State Development, Energy, Education, and ultimate ascension to WA Premier. From North-West Shelf gas contracts to BHP and Rio Tinto iron royalties, the rise of China, and Hyogo’s koala connection, Mr Barnett’s story had it all.
Mr Barnett’s deep connection to Asia, particularly China and Japan, and strong relationships with key corporate and governmental leaders, helped to position two of WA’s biggest economic partnerships. Mr Barnett was a State-building Premier.
AJBCWA partnered with Jackson McDonald to bring together the WA-Japan business community for an insightful conversation on the need to strengthen WA-Japan ties at a pivotal time for the sectors of energy and mining. In case you missed it, here’s a recap of last week’s Conversation Series:
💬 ***Conversations***
🌏 Digitisation, economy, workforce, and the energy transition are top of mind for Japanese policymakers.
🌏 Miyazaki-san highlighted the need for a balanced energy mix, with LNG playing a key role in decarbonisation.
🌏 WA’s ongoing support for CCS and green ammonia is critical to unlocking Japanese investment.
🌏 Ties between WA-Japan are more critical than ever, with Japan focusing on hydrogen and LNG.
🌏 China is streets ahead in hydrogen, so more collaboration is required to catch up and make hydrogen work.
🥂***Networking***
The conversations didn’t stop there with guests lapping up the unique opportunity to meet senior members of the National Diet of Japan, Deputy Director, Treasury & Finance, Judicial Affairs, Information Research, Miyazaki-san, and State Minister for Internal Affairs & Communications Tabata-san.
🙏***Thanks***
Thanks to our incredible speakers, Mr Barnett, Miyazaki-san, and Tabata-san, and our board members, partners, and supporters. You made the night a uniquely WA-Japan experience. Special thanks to Jackson McDonald’s Eva Lin for hosting our Series.
It was another great success for AJBCWA as we continue to develop opportunities to strengthen people-to-people connections across the sphere of business and culture 🌏🤝🗾.
WA-Japan Conversations Series: May Networking Event with Hon. Colin Barnett AC
Join the Australia Japan Business Council WA for an exclusive networking event this May, supported by WA’s largest independent law firm, Jackson McDonald.
We are honoured to host the former Premier of Western Australia, The Hon. Colin Barnett AC, who will share his reflections on the Australia-Japan relationship during his premiership and beyond.
He will discuss the geopolitical significance of this alliance in the context of the Indo-Pacific and the challenges posed to the rules-based order of international trade in the context of ‘Trump 2.0’.
Mr Barnett’s views are refreshingly contemporary, thought-provoking, and ultimately optimistic. This is a must-attend event you won’t want to miss!
Post Event Update: WA-Japan Sundowner Series: Whiskey & Chocolate Pairing Masterclass
It was an unforgettable evening of connection and culinary delights at the WA-Japan Sundowner Series: Whiskey & Chocolate Pairing Masterclass! 🥃🍫.
Guests indulged in the deliciously smooth whiskey of Whipper Snapper Distillery and the delectably sweet chocolates of Nakamura Chocolates, all whilst celebrating the blossoming WA-Japan relationship 🗾.
AJBC, in collaboration with Nakamura Chocolates and Whipper Snapper, drew guests from across the WA-Japan business community to showcase the very best of what WA’s F&B sector has to offer.
In case you missed it, here’s a snapshot of last night’s Whiskey & Chocolate Pairing Masterclass!
👩🏫 **Masterclass:**
Whipper Snapper Co-Founder Jimmy McKeown and Nakamura Chocolates Managing Director Yuki Nakamura delivered a masterclass to remember, with a suite of chocolate and whiskey flights, and an exclusive Japanese-inspired Yuzu cocktail 🍋.
🥂 **Networking:**
The discussions didn’t end with the masterclass with guests enjoying the opportunity to connect with Jimmy, Yuki and the Consul-General of Japan in Perth, Mr Naito Yasushi.
🙏 **Thanks:**
Thank you to our amazing guests, including AJBCWA board members, partners, and supporters. Your support made the night a special experience for everyone! Special thanks to Jimmy and Yuki for collaborating with us on the Masterclass 🎉.
Thank you to everyone who made last night another big success for AJBCWA. Together, we continue to create exciting opportunities to strengthen the business and cultural connection between WA and Japan. 🌏🤝🗾
WA-Japan Sundowner Series: Whiskey & Chocolate Masterclass
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Post Event Update: WA-Japan Conversations Series: May Networking Event with The Hon. Madeleine King, MP
It was an incredible night of collaboration and insights at our WA-Japan Conversation Series Networking Event! 🌏🤝
Last night, AJBCWA in partnership with Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) drew guests from across the energy and mining spectrum to promote the WA-Japan relationship in the context of critical minerals.
Here’s a snapshot of what you missed at the WA-Japan Conversation Series Networking Event:
🎙️ **Speeches:**
It was a pleasure to hear from the Hon.
Madeleine King, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, and Mr. Naito Yasushi, Consul-General of Japan in Perth, who both shared invaluable perspectives on how to enhance critical minerals cooperation between WA and Japan.
🖊 **Q&A:**
The Q&A with Minister King sparked some insightful discussions on critical minerals cooperation and more, providing a deeper understanding of the bilateral landscape.
🙏 **Recognition:**
Thank you to all our distinguished guests, including AJBCWA board members, partners, and friends. Your presence and contribution made the evening one to remember.
Special thanks to Graeme Gamble for supporting the Event and to HSF for being such fantastic hosts.
🥂 **Networking:**
The conversations didn’t end with the speeches! Guests enjoyed networking opportunities galore while savoring the refreshments on offer courtesy of HSF.
📅 **Save the Date:**
Mark your calendars for our next Sundowner Series Networking Event in June. Stay tuned for more details!
Thank you to everyone who made the night a success. Together, we’re strengthening ties between WA and Japan and paving the way for an exciting future. 🇦🇺 🤝 🇯🇵
WA-Japan Conversations Series: May Networking Event with The Hon. Madeleine King, MP
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Post Event Update: AJBC WA-Japan Christmas Sundowner
AJBC 2023 AGM was held on 30 November at Goody Two’s, Perth’s hip new Japanese whiskey bar.
Following the AGM, 50 members and guests joined in the Christmas celebration at the sundowner hosted by AJBC.
Thank you too all that attended, and we look forward to seeing everyone in the new year!
WA-Japan Sundowner Series: Christmas Edition
The Australia Japan Business Council (AJBC) WA has the pleasure of inviting you to our WA-Japan Christmas Sundowner.
Please join us for a Christmas drink at Perth’s hip new Japanese whiskey bar, Goody Two’s as we celebrate an exciting 2023 for AJBC!
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Post Event Update: WA-Japan conversations with Ross-Garnaut AC – WA’s place in a zero-carbon Japanese economy
It was a long time coming, but it was worth the wait to see Ross Garnaut AC grace the stage for the Australia-Japan Business Council (AJBCWA) Conversation Series Event at Clayton Utz.
Thank you to Clayton Utz Corporate Practice Group Leader Mark Paganin for kindly hosting us, and to Consul-General Naito Yasushi for supporting the Event.
Speaking of WA’s place in a zero-carbon Japanese and global economy, Garnaut provided a historical synopsis of the WA-Japan’s energy story, starting with LNG and continuing through to carbon capture and storage (CCS), with a glimpse into the future with nuclear.
Garnaut delighted the crowd with a warts and all Q&A – facilitated by our Chair Richard Sandover – masterfully tackling the challenges and opportunities facing the WA-Japan energy mix as we strive to achieve our net-zero commitments.
If you missed out on the November Conversation Series Event, don’t worry, as we kick-off our AJBC Sundowner Series on the 30th November at a location to be confirmed. Please keep your eyes peeled for more on our December Sundowner Series Event.
WA-Japan conversations with Ross-Garnaut AC – WA’s place in a zero-carbon Japanese economy
Dear AJBC members and supporters,
Please join the Australia Japan Business Council (AJBC) WA for our next networking event proudly hosted and supported by leading Australian law firm, Clayton Utz.
Listen to keynote speaker Ross Garnaut AC, Professor of Economics at The University of Melbourne and the Australian National University, discuss WA’s place in a zero-carbon Japanese economy.
Ross Garnaut AC Ross Garnaut is a Professor of Economics at The University of Melbourne and The Australian National University. He is also a Director of green hydrogen retailer ZEN Energy and the Superpower Institute.
Ross is the author of ‘The Garnaut Climate Change Review’ (2008), ‘Australia in the Global Response to Climate Change (2011), ‘Superpower: Australia’s Low Carbon Opportunity’ (2019), and ‘The Superpower Transformation: Building Australia’s Zero Carbon Economy’.
Economic advisor to former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, Ross assisted Mr Hawke in establishing APEC. He was also the Australian Ambassador to China from 1985 to 88 and a visiting professor at Hitotsubashi University and Nihon Keizai Kenkyu Center from 1969 until the early 1980s.
Ross chaired boards of major Australian companies from 1988 until 2012, including Bankwest, the Primary Industry Bank of Australia, Lihir Gold Ltd, and the Aluminium Smelters of Victoria.
Ross is a proud Western Australian and School Captain of Perth Modern School in 1963. He barracks for the West Coast Eagles and resides in Carlton, Victoria.
Date
Thursday, 9 November 2023
Time
5.30 pm to 7.30 pm with proceedings commencing at 6.00 pm
Price
$35 for members and $65 for non-members
Refreshments
Beverages and canapes
Venue
Clayton Utz
Level 27, QV1 Building
250 St Georges Terrace, Perth
Parking
Nearby parking at Wilsons and street parking
RSVP
Thursday, 2 November by 5.00 pm
AJBC Member post-event summary: A Conversation on the WA-Japan Relationship
It was a night of discussion, insights and networking at the Consul-General of Japan’s Residence on Thursday as the Australia-Japan Business Council (AJBCWA) and the Consulate-General of Japan in Perth welcomed Hon. Bill Johnston MLA, Minister of Mines and Petroleum, Energy, Hydrogen and Industrial Relations.
In addition to Minister Johnston, the AJBCWA and the CG of Japan in Perth were delighted to play host to Woodside Energy CEO Meg O’Neill and Mitsui External Director Sam W. AO.
Minister Johnston spoke to the Government of Western Australia‘s policy direction and initiatives relating to the decarbonisation of the oil and gas sector – in particular carbon capture and storage (CCS).
Guests were treated to an enjoyable Q&A compered by former Rio Tinto CEO Walsh who delighted the crowd with his questions and wit as Minister Johnston answered questions on all things decarbonisation.
Representing AJBCWA Chair Richard Sandover, Deputy Chair Mayumi Laughton-Smith thanked Consul-General Naito Yasushi and staff and our wonderful members and supporters for making the night a success.
While it was fantastic to see AJBCWA members – old and new – at our August networking event, there’s no better time to become part of the AJBCWA journey and join us as a member. Please visit
https://lnkd.in/g3WeyG_c for more details on how to become a member.
AJBC Member Event: A Conversation on the WA-Japan Relationship – Thursday, 31 August 2023
The conversation will dive into Western Australia’s gas sector and the strategies to attract Japanese investment. The Minister will also touch on the role of CCS and outline the next steps in WA’s oil and gas decarbonisation efforts.
Hon Bill Johnston MLAMinister for Mines and Petroleum; Energy; Hydrogen Industry; Industrial Relations
Member for Cannington
The Hon. Bill Johnston is Western Australia’s Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Energy, Hydrogen Industry and Industrial Relations.
He has been a Minister for the Labor Government since March 2017, and has previously been Minister for Commerce, Electoral Affairs, Asian Engagement and Corrective Services.
His achievements to date include cutting red-tape for the mining industry, introducing the Work Health and Safety Bill (industrial manslaughter provisions) and assisting in revolutionising Western Australia’s energy system.
1st Anniversary of the Launch of the Australia-Japan Business Council (AJBCWA)
It was a night to remember at the Consulate-General of Japan’s Residence on Monday as the Australia-Japan Business Council (AJBCWA) celebrated what has been a highly successful debut year.
The AJBCWA and the Consulate-General of Japan played host to special guests including JETRO – Japan External Trade Organization Managing Director, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, Mr Takahara Masaki and Ms Jessica Shaw, Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier.
Mr Takahara’s presentation delivered some home truths about Australia’s labour market, political stability, and sovereign risk, heralding a challenging time ahead for the Australian Government as it navigates the fallout of the safeguard mechanisms.
However, Mr Takahara’s sobering presentation did little to dampen the spirits of the celebration with guests taking the opportunity to celebrate the many successes in the WA-Japan space since AJBC’s arrival.
The board wishes to thank Consul-General Naito Yasushi and staff, our members and supporters, and finally the Chiyoda Corporation for celebrating this momentous occasion with us.
Now is the perfect time to become a member of the AJBC as we embark on what shapes as a critical stage for the WA-Japan relationship with the impending arrival of Japan’s new Ambassador. Please visit https://lnkd.in/g3WeyG_c for more details on how to become a member.
Opening remarks can be accessed via the link below:
Speech by AJBC Chair at Anniversary AJBC Event at the Consul-General’s Residence
AJBC Event Presentation Slides: A Conversation on the WA-Japan Relationship; Energy and advanced technologies: Where WA and Japan jointly shape their futures
WA’s Chief Scientist, Prof Peter Klinken AC shared his insight and vision for WA in 2030 at the Australia Japan Business Council (WA) Inc. event hosted on the rooftop of the GHD office. The full presentation slides can be accessed via the link below:
AJBC presentation Peter Klinken Chief Scientist 8 March 2023
Upcoming Event: A Conversation on the WA-Japan Relationship Wednesday 8 March 2023
Please join us for an Australia Japan Business Council networking event to discuss Energy and advanced technologies: Where WA and Japan jointly shape their futures. The event is supported by Australian engineering firm GHD with guest presenter:
Professor Peter Klinken AC, Chief Scientist of Western Australia:
Appointed in June 2014, and reappointed four times, Professor Klinken has brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role of Chief Scientist of Western Australia, providing independent expert advice to the State Government across numerous fields of endeavour. Passionate about issues for Indigenous people and our Education system, Professor Klinken was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2017, was WA Citizen of the Year (Professions) in 2008, and is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (2015) and a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (2016).
Date: Wednesday 8 March 2023
Time: 17.00 – 19.00
Host & Sponsor: GHD
Venue: GHD, 999 Hay Street, Perth
Topic: Energy and advanced technologies in WA
Forthcoming Events
AJBC will hold an event early or mid-April 2023 at the residence of the Japanese Consul-General in Perth featuring senior diplomats, politicians and business people presenting on emerging trends in the Australia-Japan trading alliance and cultural relationship between the countries. More information will be provided in due course.
AJBC Executive Committee members were privileged and honoured to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on his recent Perth visit.
When Prime Minister Kishida visited Perth in late October, the Australia Japan Business Council of WA (AJBC) was delighted that two of its executives were invited to privately meet with him.
Ms Mayumi Laughton-Smith, AJBC Deputy Chair, was one of only 13 guests to meet with the Prime Minister at a dinner function hosted by the Japanese Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Mr Yamagami Shingo. Mr Andrew Tan, AJBC Executive Member and President & CEO for Oceania – Chiyoda, was one of a few select corporate invitees to attend the business leaders’ luncheon.
The importance of AJBC, a dedicated business council to represent the mutual interests of Japanese and Western Australian businesses, cannot be overstated.
AJBCWA October Networking Event: Broome’s Pearling Past and Future
Join the Australia Japan Business Council (WA) at our October Networking Event ‘Broome’s Pearling Past and Future’, proudly supported by Linneys.
Featuring special guests Hon. Alannah MacTiernan MLC, Minister for Regional Development, Justin Linney, Creative Director of Linneys and the Japanese Consulate General of Japan in Perth and showcasing abalone from Rare Foods Australia and ocean cellared wine from Glenarty Road.
Date: Thursday 27 October 2022, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Address: 61 King St, Perth, Western Australia, AU, 6000
Event link:https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/october-networking-event-broomes-pearling-past-and-future-tickets-427746079037
Places are limited with RSVPs closing at 5pm on Tuesday, 20th October. Register now on the above link to secure your place.