Teaming up with local Queensland councils to access the Asian region
From mangoes to mining, aquaculture and natural tourism, far north Queensland businesses are playing a leading role in exporting to Asia.
Now, under an innovative partnership between the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) and Asialink Business, local councils in this important region of Australia are ensuring they have the skills and know-how to grow these links with Asia even further. The Program has been made possible through funding arrangements attached to an MOU between the LGAQ and Trade and Investment Queensland.
Mayors, councillors and executives representing councils in north Queensland participated in the most recent Asia Capability training program in Cairns on August 13.
The program, also delivered in Townsville on July 4, is a national first and will be delivered across all 77 local governments in Queensland. Councillors and senior executives will learn how to navigate the delicate cultural differences involved in international business relations.
Asialink Business Capability Development Director, Donna Webster, who has been delivering the programs says, “Queensland is leading the way in ensuring that local councils have the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and mindfulness necessary to build strong business relationships with their Asian counterparts and attract international investors and tourists.”
“This highly innovative, state-led initiative to build the Asia capability of councils is inspiring and strategically advantageous for Queensland. The combined strength of developing the ‘conscious cultural competence’ of each Regional Organisation of Councils (ROC) - then all ROCs collectively - is a very persuasive attraction strategy.
“We hope our partnership with the LGAQ will serve as a model for other states and territories across Australia,” Ms Webster said.
Developed specifically to suit the needs of local members, the program aims to build awareness and confidence when dealing with companies and representatives from Asia. The sessions focus on cultural and communication differences, business etiquette, engaging with government officials, hierarchy, the concept of ‘face’ and how to prepare for successful meetings with international delegations. Participants also explore how the social media landscape is influencing Asian consumers and their tourism habits.
With communities and small business often turning to local councils for support and guidance on how to tap into overseas markets, the program is providing local councils with practical knowledge and insights on how they can support their community businesses to engage with overseas delegations, international stakeholders and tourists. The program inspires elected members to identify cultural narratives, with wonderful stories from all over Queensland being shared to broaden perspective.
Paul Cranch, Lead - Trade and Investment for LGAQ, reflected on the program so far:
“International markets are often tough and competitive, and much of the world is looking to penetrate them. We have encouraged our members to embrace this program to help build relationships with potential partners, clients and broader networks, which is vital for successful long-term diplomacy and business opportunities for Queensland councils and communities. Being culturally aware and adapting behaviour is critical to maximising opportunities and avoiding often embarrassing misunderstandings which can end a potential deal. “
“We have already held two successful sessions in Cairns and Townsville, where 35 participants from 12 Councils across northern Queensland participated. Both sessions had great feedback and we are looking forward to adding value to more of our members. “
Being culturally aware and adapting behaviour is critical to maximising opportunities and avoiding misunderstandings which can lose potential deals. This program is a way for councils to progress relationships in what is now a globally competitive business environment.
Further details on upcoming programs will be provided by LGAQ to Queensland councils.