RACV TO PROVIDE APPLE’S ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE VIA SATELLITE FOR IPHONE USERS IN AUSTRALIA
REFORM DIRECTIONS FROM THE ECONOMIC REFORM ROUNDTABLE
HOPE ON THE HORIZON: THE GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA AND THE FIGHT FOR GAZA
SHARE THE PRAISE, SHARE THE BLAME 8 11 11 14 6 5 4
RACE DISCRIMINATION
COMMISSIONER SAYS ISLAMOPHOBIA MUST BE CONFRONTED WITH URGENCY AND UNITY
YOUNG PEOPLE LEADING THE WAY IN ASKING R U OK?
OMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY TRADE DELEGATION TO AUSTRALIA
Al Wasat Magazine
COURTESY OF GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA
Gift of Kindness
SHARE THE PRAISE, SHARE THE BLAME
I was in Adelaide recently to conduct several workshops on parenting and 5D Thinking. During the parenting workshop, I highlighted a simple but
By Jamilah Samian www.coolmumsuperdad.com
powerful principle for a successful marriage: “Share the praise, share the blame.” This code of conduct strengthens trust, deepens respect, and
Why in a parenting workshop?
Because the quality of parenting is tied to the quality of your marriage. When parents treat each other with kindness, acknowledging effort and carrying responsibility together, children grow up in a secure, loving environment. But when parents compete for credit or point fingers, children sense the tension, and it undermines their wellbeing.
Share the Praise with Kindness
In many households, one spouse appears more visible than the other. A mother may spend more time with the children, while the father works long hours outside. When children succeed e.g. win a competition, show good manners, people often credit the parent they see most involved.
But behind every achievement is usually teamwork. A wise spouse shares the praise kindly:
• “Yes, our daughter worked hard, but her father also encouraged her every day.”
• “My husband supported our son in this project; I just helped with the details.”
These small, kind acknowledgments strengthen your partner’s dignity and show children that success is never a solo act. They learn that kindness multiplies happiness.
Share the Blame with Kindness
Families also face mistakes. A child misbehaves in school, overspends, or shows disrespect. In such moments, it’s tempting to blame:
• “This is because you’re too soft.”
• “If you had disciplined him earlier, this wouldn’t happen.”
Blame divides. It puts one parent on the defensive and chips away at trust.
Kindness offers a better way:
• “We need to find a better way to guide him.”
• “We may have overlooked something; let’s figure out what to do next.”
Sharing the blame doesn’t ignore mistakes— it softens the approach. Children who see parents correcting with empathy and unity feel secure, even when discipline is needed.
Why It Matters for Parenting
Children notice not just what parents say but how they treat each other. When they see their mother and father share praise and blame with kindness, they absorb lessons of fairness, humility, and compassion. They grow up knowing their family rests on trust and respect.
But if they constantly see finger-pointing and harshness, they may learn to manipulate one parent against the other, or assume unkindness is normal in relationships. A harmonious marriage
creates harmony not only between spouses but also within the family.
is not a luxury. It is the foundation of effective parenting.
Practical Steps
How can couples live this out daily?
1. Use kind “we” language. Replace blame with, “How can we improve this?”
2. Acknowledge unseen effort. Publicly highlight your spouse’s quiet contributions.
3. Pause before reacting. A kind pause prevents hurtful remarks.
4. Celebrate small wins. Thank your spouse sincerely, even for simple tasks.
5. Pray together. Turning to Allah reminds both that marriage and parenting are shared trusts.
Final Thoughts
“Share the praise, share the blame” is more than a marriage tip. It is a philosophy of kindness and partnership. It means lifting each other in
good times and carrying one another in hard times. A couple who practices this principle not only strengthens their marriage but also leaves a legacy of compassion and unity. When children witness parents treating each other with kindness, such as praising generously, correcting gently, they inherit more than love. They inherit a living example of how kindness sustains families. And that is one of the greatest gifts parents can pass on.
Jamilah Samian is the author of “Cool Mum Super Dad”, “Cool Boys Super Sons”, “Leadership In Parenting”, “Parenting Generation Y & Z”, “The Kindness Miracle”, “Raise Me Right” and “77 Power Parent Tips”. For more resources, visit www. coolmumsuperdad.com
RACV TO PROVIDE APPLE’S ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE VIA SATELLITE FOR IPHONE USERS IN AUSTRALIA
RACV
• Apple’s groundbreaking roadside assistance via satellite allows iPhone 14 or later in Australia to connect with RACV if users have car trouble in areas without mobile or Wi-Fi coverage.
• An intuitive interface, including a short questionnaire captures key details and transmits the information via satellite so an RACVagent can message the driver directly and dispatch help to their location.
• In a country as vast as Australia, many breakdowns happen beyond mobile reception, and this feature helps drivers get support.
RACV is working with Apple to bring roadside assistance via satellite to iPhone users across Australia.
Clubs respond to millions of calls for help and breakdown support every year. Now, users with iPhone 14 or laterincluding the newly announced iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max - will be able to access RACV support when they are beyond mobile coverage, offering peace of mind in some of the country’s most remote locations.
“Keeping people safe on the road and helping them reach their destination is at the heart of what we do at RACV,” said RACV Executive General Manager Insurance and Roadside Phil Turnbull.
“This innovation extends that safety net further than ever before. Australia is a vast country, and a breakdown in a remote area without mobile reception can be incredibly stressful. Apple’s satellite feature is a game-changerthis means Australians who would previously have been unreachable can now connect with RACV and get the support they need, when they need it most.”
When a user has car trouble and cellular and WiFi are not available, they will be guided through a short questionnaire to capture key details of
their situation. They will then be guided to connect to a satellite, to transmit this information to RACV, message a roadside assistance agent and receive updates on their request.
This feature builds on the technology behind Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite, which launched in Australia in 2023, and allows iPhone users to connect with emergency services when outside of mobile networks and WiFi.
*Roadside Assistance via satellite is included for free for two years starting at the time of activation of a new iPhone 14 or later with iOS 18.4 or later, whether or not they are an affiliated motoring club member. Once a request is submitted, membership will be verified for eligible users, while non-members can still access services on a paid basis.
**Roadside Assistance is only available to vehicles located on or near a public road. Offroad recovery is not provided.
***Services are subject to membership terms and will be available in Australia from Monday 15th September.
****Apple’s satellite features were designed for use in open spaces with a clear line of sight to the sky. Performance may be impacted by obstructions such as trees or surrounding buildings.
REFORM DIRECTIONS FROM THE ECONOMIC REFORM ROUNDTABLE
The Australian Federal Government held the Economic Reform Roundtable from 19 to 21 August 2025 to forge common ground on reforms aimed at boosting productivity,
Key Issues Agreed at the Roundtable
A National Road-User Charge
Consensus emerged on introducing a national road-user charge to replace the declining fuel excise tax as electric vehicle (EV) usage grows. While no final model was agreed upon at the Roundtable, the matter will be progressed immediately, with an options paper to be presented to state and territory treasurers on 5 September 2025.
Fast-Tracking Environmental Approvals
Participants agreed to accelerate environmental approvals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 to address the backlog of more than 30,000 projects awaiting clearance. The Environment Minister is expected to lead reforms to be legislated before Christmas 2025.
Reforming the National Construction Code
Support was expressed for pausing updates to the National Construction Code during the housing accord until 1 July 2029, to cut red tape and speed up building supply. With over 2,000 pages, the Code will be streamlined to facilitate quicker construction. Modular and prefabricated housing also
By Dr. Abul Jalaluddin
housing supply, tax fairness, workforce skills, and digital transformation through artificial intelligence (AI).
The Roundtable brought together representatives from
gained traction as efficient alternatives.
Reducing Nuisance Tariffs and Simplifying Regulations
Leaders across sectors endorsed eliminating minor tariffs and cutting unnecessary red tape to boost business productivity and investment. Currently, many small tariffs raise little revenue, increase compliance costs for business, and lift consumer prices. Among the 315 nuisance tariffs under review are a 5% tariff on imported air conditioners and a 5% tariff on cast iron pipes and tubes.
Tax Reform Focused on Intergenerational Fairness
While no detailed tax proposals were finalised, participants endorsed three guiding principles: fairness, simplicity, and sustainability. The goals include enhancing intergenerational equity, boosting investment incentives, and securing funding for essential services such as aged care and the NDIS.
AI Regulation & Copyright Protection
A breakthrough was reached between unions and major technology companies (via the Tech Council of Australia) to develop a model that
government, business, unions, regulatory agencies, and experts to ensure that any reform package would be broadly supported and politically acceptable.
compensates creators when their content is used in AI training and searches.
The government will also conduct a comprehensive “gap analysis” to determine whether existing laws adequately cover AI-related risks—such as copyright, privacy, and employment—or whether a dedicated AI Act is needed. Other AI initiatives discussed include pausing broad, mandatory “guardrail” regulations, minimising risks such as job losses while maximising AI’s benefits, encouraging public sector use of AI to improve service delivery as well as supporting AI literacy and workforce reskilling.
Ten Immediate Reform Priorities
The Roundtable identified ten priority reform areas: 1. Progressing towards a single national market, 2. Simplifying trade and abolishing tariffs, 3. Better regulation and reducing clutter, 4. Speeding up approvals in national priority areas, 5. Building more homes more quickly, 6. Making AI a national priority, 7. Attracting capital and deploying investment, 8. Building a skilled and adaptable workforce, 9. Establishing a fairer intergenerational tax system and 10. Modernising government services.
Skills & Training Reforms
Consensus was reached on the need to improve vocational education, streamline foreign credential recognition, and address skills shortages.
For example, nurses, engineers, and other migrants with overseas qualifications would be able to work in their fields more easily. The Roundtable also supported harmonising state licensing schemes to allow people to work across borders without unnecessary obstacles.
Concluding Remarks
The Roundtable succeeded in creating shared ownership of reforms across business, unions, and government. It was widely viewed as successful in building consensus on major issues such as a road-user charge for EVs, an overhaul of environmental law, faster housing approvals, tariff reduction, tax reform principles, AI regulation, and the ten immediate reform priorities.
These outcomes were more than just a “talkfest.” They give the government both political cover and momentum to legislate reforms that will strengthen productivity and support Australia’s long-term economic future.
HOPE ON THE HORIZON: THE GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA AND THE FIGHT FOR GAZA
By Mohammad Helmy Global Movement to Gaza (GMTG) Head of Australia-Aortearoa Government Engagement
In a time when governments have turned their backs on justice, ordinary people from 44 countries have stepped forward to confront what the United Nations now officially calls genocide in Gaza. The UN’s Commission of Inquiry recently declared that Israel has committed four of the five acts defined under the Genocide Convention, including deliberate starvation, mass killings, and targeting of civilians. The report calls on all nations to act urgently to prevent further atrocities.
In response, the Global Sumud Flotilla was born—a grassroots humanitarian mission aiming to break the siege on Gaza and deliver life-saving aid. “Sumud,” meaning steadfastness in Arabic, perfectly captures the spirit of this mission. With over 50 boats from 44 nations, the flotilla is a beacon of hope, unity, and resistance.
When I first heard about the flotilla, I felt compelled to act. I applied to join the crew and underwent a rigorous vetting process—application forms, reference letters, biographies, and detailed questions about sea, medical, and mechanical experience. Alhamdulilah, while I wasn’t selected for the boat crew, I was honored to be appointed to the land support team, serving as head of government liaison for Australia and a boat monitor.
The scale of participation is breathtaking: 26,000 global applicants, including 300 Australians, applied to sail. Only a few hundred were accepted. Among them are eight Australians, including one Muslim, who left behind families and careers to sail toward danger in the name of justice.
Over 50 boats from 44 nations
The scale of participation is breathtaking: 26,000 global applicants, including 300 Australians, applied to sail. Only a few hundred were accepted. Among them are eight Australians
now reached Sicily, where it will join vessels from Greece before heading information to Gaza, inshallah.
This mission is not without risk. Beyond the threat of Israeli naval attacks, crew members face sea sickness, language barriers, technical failures, and the emotional toll of leaving loved ones behind. Yet, their resolve is unwavering. As Melanie Schweizer, an Australian lawyer and steering committee member, said:
“We sail because governments have failed. We sail because silence enables atrocity. We sail to defend international law and uphold human dignity.”
What’s most inspiring is the grassroots nature of this mission. No central organisation. No corporate sponsors. Yet, 50 boats were purchased outright, funded by people around the world.
Donations covered fuel, food, safety gear, GPS systems, and the aid itself.
If you’re wondering how to help, here are four impactful actions:
1. Write to the Foreign Minister urging protection for the flotilla and free passage.
2. Contact your MP to raise the issue in Parliament.
The journey began in Barcelona, then moved to Tunisia, where the support was overwhelming. Thousands lined the shores, chanting, donating food, and offering aid. Two boats were attacked by drones while docked in Tunis, but alhamdulilah, no one was harmed. The fleet has
The flotilla’s legitimacy has been affirmed by 16 nations, including Ireland, South Africa, Türkiye, Brazil, and Malaysia, whose foreign ministers issued a joint warning to Israel:
“Any attack on the flotilla or illegal detention of its participants will lead to accountability.”
3. Monitor the boats via GPS links on the Global Sumud Flotilla Instagram.
4. Amplify coverage—the more eyes on the boats, the safer they are.
This is what solidarity looks like. It’s bold. It’s beautiful. And it’s necessary. Inshallah, it will make a difference.
ICCV
ISLAMIC CO-ORDINATING COUNCIL OF VICTORIA
Helping Australian businesses export halal products to over 140 countries
ICCV is the largest Halal certification organisation in Australia servicing clients locally and internationally.
ICCV is responsible for the certification, monitoring, and supervision of Halal food for the domestic market as well as the export market.
Clients cover a range of sectors including abattoirs, food processing businesses, transportation and cold storage operators.
We are the largest halal certification body in Australia. Professional, experienced and trusted.
AB A T T OIR
We monitor the certified businesses for compliance of halal requirements.
FOOD P R O C ESSING
We work with abattoirs to get and keep their halal certification.
ACCREDITED MARKETS
ICCV is specifically accredited within these Muslim majority countries.
Our certification is approved for all halal importing countries.
We provide full turnkey solution for FGMs to get halal.
Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Oman, Kingdom of Bahrain,Tunisia,Yemen, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh, Bosnia, Iran, Kosova, Morocco, Maldives.
We provide a means for direct supervision in house for quality assurance.
SUPP L Y CHAIN
We provide logistics companies for cold room and transport to get halal.
Our certificate is approved in countries that now require halal certificate if goods have halal stamps:
Canada, South Korea, China, European Union (EU), New Zealand, Russia Federation, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, United States of America (USA).
Australia’s Race Discrimination
Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman says the release of the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia’s report last Friday marks a critical moment for our nation to address racism against Muslims in Australia.
The report identified the devastating impacts of Islamophobia in the education, media, and law enforcement sectors; in politics and broader society. It drew attention to Muslim women who are disproportionately targeted in public spaces, and Muslim men who are targeted in law enforcement and security contexts.
The report calls for reform across legal, education, government, media and community sectors to better protect Muslim Australians from racism, echoing many of the recommendations in the Australian Human Rights Commission’s National Anti-Racism Framework.
‘Islamophobia is not isolated or rare in Australia and it goes beyond interpersonal religious intolerance. It is pervasive, persistent and deeply harmful. It has deep roots and needs structural solutions.
‘Recent incidents, including the threatening email sent to the Islamic College of Brisbane and the bomb hoax at Arundel Mosque have left communities shaken.
‘Islamophobia isolates and harms communities, erodes trust and fosters fear. We must do better to challenge this and build a society based on dignity and equality.
‘The Special Envoy’s report calls for key recommendations of the Commission’s National Anti-Racism Framework to be implemented. ‘I welcome its alignment with the National Anti-Racism Framework.’
‘With the recommendations from a National Anti-Racism Framework now before government, alongside two Special Envoy reports and the forthcoming outcomes of the Racism@Uni study, we have a comprehensive foundation to forge a new, coordinated approach to tackling racism in Australia.
I look forward to continuing engagement with both Special Envoys as we work toward meaningful change.’
This is not just a policy issue - it is a moral imperative. I urge governments, institutions and individuals to act with urgency and compassion.’
Authorised by Tony Burke MP, Shop 29/1 Broadway, Punchbowl NSW 2196.
YOUNG PEOPLE LEADING THE WAY IN ASKING R U OK?
New insights released by R U OK? reveals young people are leading the way in regularly supporting each other and asking, ‘are you OK?’.
The findings come as people around Australia mark R U OK?Day, a National Day of Action that reminds everyone to Ask R U OK? Any Day, because regular, meaningful conversations can - and do - change lives.
The insights reveal an overwhelming majority of those aged 16 - 24 years (94%) supported someone at least once in the past month and across the previous year, 57% have more regularly been asking others, ‘are you OK?’.
“As someone who has spent nearly twenty years in education, and as a parent who has experienced the heartbreak of losing a son to suicide, I see how much is changing across generations,” said educator and R U OK? Community Ambassador, Kate Jones.
“When I look at young people today, I see them leading the way in how they care for each other. They’re having open, honest conversations that my generation simply didn’t have.
“When I was a student forty years ago, mental health was never spoken about,” Ms Jones reflected. “What I see now is
a generation stepping into spaces that were once silent. Their willingness to ask the tough questions gives me real hope that the future will be safer and more connected.”
Seventeen years since the first R U OK?Day, the organisation continues to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with those in their world and lend support when they are struggling with life.
“This is how change happens - one conversation at a time, one generation at a time,” said R U OK? CEO, Katherine Newton.
However, the data also revealed a confidence gap, with some saying they might hesitate to ask because they don’t want to say the wrong thing, invade someone’s privacy, embarrass them, or not be able to solve their problem.
“We’ve all had moments where we’ve noticed someone struggling with life’s challenges, a serious illness, a relationship breakdown, parenting pressures, financial stress, grief, or perhaps they just haven’t seemed like themselves,” said Ms Newton.
“We feel we should check in, but then we hesitate.
ALL SCHOOL: ADHAN ACADEMY INCURSION
ICOM
Recently, selected students from both Primary and Secondary had the special opportunity to participate in an Adhan Incursion focused on developing their skills
in calling to prayer (Adhan).
Led by a visiting Adhan coach from Sydney, the session offered both practical training and spiritual insight. Students began by listening to the coach explain the significance of the Adhan in Islam - its purpose, meaning, and
role in daily worship. This was followed by a hands-on practice session, where students were guided on correct pronunciation, tone, and delivery.
The incursion aimed to build students’ confidence and understanding, encouraging
them to take an active role in preserving and practising this important Islamic tradition. It was an inspiring experience that deepened their appreciation of the Adhan and its powerful call to connect with Allah (SWT).
SUNNAH 2 SMILE WEEK AT ICOM
PRIMARY HIGHLIGHTS: CREATIVITY AND WELLBEING
ICOM
Our Primary students embraced Sunnah to Smile Mental Health Week, a special initiative highlighting the importance of self-care, supporting others, and living the Sunnah of smiling. The schoolyard was alive with craft activities during recess and lunch, all designed to promote kindness, joy, and positivity. To conclude the week, the SRC led
a successful fundraiser, uniting the school community in charity.
A special assembly for Years 3–6 reinforced the core message: care for yourself, support others, and follow the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet (SAW), who said, “Your smile for your brother is charity.”
Ms. Yuksel Ismael, Primary Assistant Director of Student Services
SECONDARY HIGHLIGHTS: TURNING LEARNING INTO ACTION
ICOM
We recently marked a special milestone for ICOM, with our inaugural Sunnah To Smile Week!
It was a week dedicated to highlighting the importance of positive mental health and wellbeing, while reminding us all that at ICOM, we belong, we are supported, and we are valued. The week kicked off with special incursions led by our dedicated Counsellors, teambuilding activities, delicious fruit skewers and chocolate fountains, and the creation of a beautiful mural showcasing what makes our students smile. It was a true reminder that sometimes the smallest things have the biggest impact, and that everyone’s
“happy place” is both special and unique.
Our week concluded with a vibrant assembly that brought to life the true meaning of Sunnah To Smile, featuring wonderful performances, heartfelt poems, and a little quiz for some friendly competition.
And though Sunnah To Smile Week has come to an end, let us continue to live by the Sunnah of our Prophet: “The best of you are those who bring the greatest benefit to others.” So remember to check-in on others, say hello and smile, for you could be the one positive part of someone’s day!
Ms. Sarah El-Sabaa, Secondary Assistant Director of Student Services
SENATOR PAUL SCARR’S STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR THE ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF THE GOLD COAST
OMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY TRADE DELEGATION TO AUSTRALIA
Senator Paul Scarr
Senator for Queensland
Shadow Minister for Immigration
Shadow Minister for Citizenship & Multicultural Affairs
Queensland Senator Paul Scarr has hailed the “importance” of Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia after a man was charged with allegedly planting a fake explosive device at a Gold Coast mosque.
Senator Scarr said the incident underscored the need to stand with Queensland’s Muslim community, praising the Islamic Society of the Gold Coast for its “generosity of spirit” in supporting people in times of crisis.
“This is the second time in three days I have been moved to issue a statement supporting the Queensland Muslim community,” Senator Scarr said in a statement on September 9. “It underlines the importance of the work being undertaken by Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.”
Queensland Police said officers were called to the Arundel mosque on Allied Drive about 8.43pm on September 7 following reports of a suspicious device. The Explosive Ordnance Response Team deemed it safe and confirmed there was no risk to the community.
Police allege 34-year-old Matthew James Bailey was caught on CCTV leaving the item at the mosque before fleeing. The Labrador man was later arrested and charged with bomb hoax, trespass and obstructing police.
The alleged hoax came just
two days after the Islamic College of Brisbane received a threatening email, leaving community leaders alarmed at what they say is a pattern of targeted intimidation.
Nora Amath, co-executive director of the Islamophobia Register Australia, said the threats had traumatised the wider Muslim community.
“They constitute an attack on the fundamental principles of safety, inclusivity and respect that underpin Australia’s multicultural society,” Dr Amath said.
The register, which documents reports of Islamophobia across the country, recorded a 1300 per cent increase in incidents following the October 7 attacks in Israel, with people displaying Palestinian symbols making up a quarter of reported cases.
Senator Scarr, who attended the opening of the Arundel Mosque Community Centre earlier this year, said he had witnessed first-hand the Muslim community’s role in supporting Queenslanders affected by droughts, bushfires, floods and homelessness.
“Now is the time for the community to provide support to members of the Queensland Muslim community – support which reflects how the Queensland Muslim community supports their fellow Queenslanders in need,” he said.
Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OCCI) Trade Delegation to Australia coincided with the14th World Chambers Congress in Melbourne. The trade delegation’s program included three-day visit in Melbourne and two-day visit to Sydney.
The Oman Trade Delegation was led by Eng. Said bin Ali Al Abr, Chairman, Suhar Chamber Branch included nineteen senior representatives from across: the Oman Chamber branches in Oman, Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Investment and Promotion, Sohar Industrial City (Madayn) and multiple industry sectors: Iron and aluminium manufacturing, aircraft & car spare parts, mining, plastics, solar panel manufacturer and renewable energy solutions, aircraft & car spare parts, medical, logistics & shipping services, education, paper & fabric bag, manufacturing.
The Oman Delegation program was developed by the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI) in collaboration with Global Victoria and Investment NSW. It commenced in Melbourne on 1 September, with a business forum at the International Chamber House, hosted by AACCI with the participation of relevant to the delegation’s interests Victorian businesses, AACCI members, and Global Victoria representatives.
Mr Mohamed Hage OAM, President and National Chairman AACCI opened the business forum and welcomed the delegation, followed by Ms Lamia Daerje, Trade Director Middle East, Africa and Türkiye Global Victoria comments and showcasing Victoria’s business world standard capabilities across a range of industry sectors. Ms Gonul Serbest, Commissioner for Victoria to Europe, Middle East, Türkiye and Africa further highlighted Victoria’s business excellence and readiness to compete in global markets. Eng. Said bin Ali Al Abr, responded with comments and showcasing Oman’s economy and the importance of the delegation’s visit to Melbourne, Victoria and expectation of successful outcomes. Networking lunch followed with business discussions between the Omani and Victorian businesses.
The forum concluded with an official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between
AACCI and OCCI as well as official photos. Over the next two days the delegations’ business program included site visits organised and led by Global Victoria.
Over the next two days, Global Victoria organised site visits for the Oman Chamber Trade Delegation, which included the Cremorne Digital Hub, Green Eco Tech and GHD as well as the Monash University Manufacturing Centre of Excellence and Tour of the Monash Innovation Labs.
In Sydney, the Oman Chamber Trade Delegation’s program commenced on 4 September, with a business forum organized by AACCI in collaboration with Investment NSW. The forum was opened by Mr Mohamed Hage OAM, followed by welcome comments by HE Counsellor Aisha Al Tobi Chargé d’Affaires a.i, Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman.
Mr. Sudhir Basavaraju, A/ Associate Director, Priority Markets (UK, EU, India and Middle East) represented Investment NSW and provided an overview of the key industry sectors of interest to the Oman delegation as well as a showcased NSW capabilities and achievements across all industry sectors in a video presentation.
Following the response by Eng. Said bin Ali Al Abr and overview of Oman’s industry sectors, presentations were delivered by Dr Abby Bloom, Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC Chair and Prof. Prabhu Sivabalan and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise Learning) from University of Technology Sydney (UTS). The Forum concluded with a networking lunch and B2B discussions.
In the afternoon, part of the Oman Delegation visited the Tech Central Innovation Hub and remaining delegates visited the Taronga Group focusing on real estate, civil engineering, logistics, manufacturing, aluminium, waste management, rooftop solar and district cooling systems.
Day two comprised of a trip to Wollongong and business site visits at the Hydrogen Hub and Hysata, followed by meetings at the University of Wollongong.
Overall, the Oman Chamber of Commerce Industry Trade Delegation to Australia was very successful in terms of establishing business connections and resulting business opportunities for both for the delegates and participating Victorian and NSW businesses.
