Who we are

The AUSTRALIA AFRICA BUSINESS COUNCIL NSW (AABC) aims to unite business communities on both continents. The Council promotes business networks, social contacts and increased trade and investment between Africa and Australia. In NSW, we aim to be the preferred source of information on and introduction to doing business in Africa. We encourage constant dialogue and debate on how best to strengthen and foster such intercontinental business relationships.

In June 2011, the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade recognised that "Africa is a diverse continent of increasing importance to the world...in resource terms, Africa has vast reserves; in trading terms, the African population represents a huge potential market."

Members of the AABC NSW enjoy the following benefits:

  • Discounted member rates for business briefing and functions;
  • Close liaison with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Australian Trade Commission and other relevant federal, state and territory government departments;
  • Introduction and access to African High Commissions, visiting delegates and delegations;

Opportunities to:

  • Network and utilise the expertise of members;
  • Participate in trade missions;
  • Promote business services / products through AABC website, mail-outs and events;
  • Participate in the AABC website with company profile on the networking page
  • Access to travel deals in and between Australia and Africa;
  • Access to trade and investment enquiries received by the AABC;
  • Corporate Membership is negotiable;
  • Individual Membership $100 annually;

In the first half of 2011 we held two functions: a networking reception at the Glover Cottages in Kent Street and an informative panel seminar on "Doing deals in Africa" show casing expertise from Mallesons, Macquarie Bank and Control Risks at the DFAT State offices in Pitt Street. There will be two further functions this year in late August and November (details to follow on the web site) as well as the Africa Festival in November.

We have also hosted visiting delegates and delegations from Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sao Tome & Principe, Zimbabwe, Australian High Commission to Nigeria and the East African Community Secretariat. Members are invited to attend these meetings if it is relevant to their businesses.