Matthew Lapworth (DFAT) delivered the opening remarks, followed by keynote inputs from Brian Clark (Australian Centre for International Trade and Investments – ACITI), Aaron O’Neil (Australian Border Force – Modernisation Branch), and Ramesh Murthy (Austrade – Simplified Trade Systems). Speakers shared insights into Australia’s progress on supply chain and trade digitalisation, outlining work-in-progress initiatives, focus areas, ongoing trials, and future priorities, with a strong emphasis on inter-agency collaboration. The sessions highlighted Australia’s efforts to modernise customs through digital and automated systems, fostering a deeper understanding of the collaborative approaches shaping the future of trade
Networking- Digitalisation of Supply Chain and Logistics
Australia | July 15, 2025
On 15 July 2025 in Canberra and 18 July 2025 in Sydney, a Diplomatic Briefing and Industry Networking Event was organised for participants of the Digitalisation of Supply Chain and Logistics course. The diplomatic briefing provided participants with a valuable opportunity to engage with representatives from the Australian Government and hear directly from DFAT members.
The event was further strengthened by the presence of Bhutan’s Ambassador and representatives from the High Commissions of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. These interactions enhanced understanding of Australia’s trade and logistics policies, strengthened bilateral relationships, and encouraged participants to explore collaborative opportunities relevant to their countries’ trade agendas.
The Sydney Industry Networking Event was opened by Prof. Vinayak Dixit (UNSW Office of Global Affairs) and Shivani Manaktala (Palladium). Conversations focused on digital trade, e-bills, and the legal aspects and prerequisites for reform, while highlighting the importance of political will, inter-agency cooperation, private sector support, and industry-led decarbonisation and fleet electrification efforts. Industry perspectives were shared by Andrew Hudson (Rigby Cooke Lawyers), Ana Green (Toll Group), and Tim Mason (OOCL Shipping Line). Together, these sessions enabled a rich exchange of regional, legal, institutional, and technical perspectives, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of trade and supply chain digitalisation.