REGIONAL LEADERS GLOBAL PARTNERS
KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA AND AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA AND KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
REGIONAL LEADERS GLOBAL PARTNERS
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia &
Australia Regional Partners Global Leaders
60-metre high UAP artwork, Al-Fanar, the centrepiece for the $US7 billion world-class research institution for KAUST , Thuwal Point, overlooking the Safaa Harbour and the Red Sea in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia &
Australia Regional Partners Global Leaders
Roger Bayliss Julie Bayliss
Roll of Honour Lead
Monash University Major Australian Industrial Systems Institute (AISI) Academies Australasia Coffey International Limited Curtin University Meat & Livestock Australia Wellard Saudi Trading Co. Ltd Key AACL
University of Ballarat
Australia Gulf Council
University of Canberra
Australian World Trading
CQUniversity Australia
Griffith University
University of Melbourne University of Western Sydney Western Australian Trade Office Middle East
PwC
WorleyParsons
Study Melbourne, Victoria Business Directory Educational Testing Service Equinox Minerals Limited National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies Australia (NCEIS) nib
Advisory Group
Mr Rob Boulger Professor Abdullah Saeed, FAHA Global Leader, Rail Sultan of Oman Professor of Arab and Islamic Studies & Laing O’Rourke Director, National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies The University of Melbourne Mr Christopher Campbell Group Managing Director Professor Amin Saikal, AM Academies Australasia Director Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies Ms Jaqui Lane (The Middle East and Central Asia) Publisher Australian National University Focus Publishing Dr Glen Simpson Mr Richard Marshall Global Leader Joint Group Managing Director Coffey International Development Woods Bagot Deputy Chair of Council for Australian Arab Relations Mr Pankaj Savara Regional Director Western Australian Trade Office – Middle East
4|
Mr Steve Wilson Chair ABGSA (Australian Business Group of Saudi Arabia)
Table of Contents
Role of Honour — Advisory Group
4
Forewords
6
Introductions
8
1
Chapter One — The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia–Australia relationship
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Australia share many common interests and values.
2
Chapter Two — Challenges and opportunities
3
Chapter Three — Bilateral ties
12
28
Saudi Arabia and Australia have different cultures, but they share a respect for God. 48
Growth in trade between Saudi Arabia and Australia is spectacular and on the rise.
3·1 Food and agribusiness
48
3·2 Education
62
3·3 Construction and engineering
86
3·4 Healthcare and medical services
92
3·5 Automotive and manufacturing
96
3·6 Equine trade
100
4
Chapter Four — Doing business in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
106
5
Saudi Arabia is an attractive market for Australian exporters of many different types.
Chapter Five — Doing business in Australia
126
Australia is an attractive and globally competitive location in which to do business.
Business directory
Index
143
148
CONTENTS | 5
Foreword
Saudi Minister for Trade and Industry, HE Abdullah Ahmed Zainal Alireza Saudi-Australian relations have deepened with our common desire for greater cooperation in various sectors such as education, culture, information technology and infrastructure. Saudi Arabia is diversifying its economy to ensure a sustainable economic structure and secure standard of living for future generations. Saudi Arabia is strategically investing in education, infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, petrochemicals, and key oil and non-oil sectors. Under the King Abdullah Scholarship Program, Saudi students are studying in Australian educational institutions in fields such as health, information technology and business administration. Saudi Arabia’s needs are well suited to Australian capabilities. Saudi Arabia and Australia share a productive trade relationship. In 2009-10, Australia’s exports to Saudi Arabia totalled $A1.5 billion and included passenger motor vehicles and agricultural products such as barley, meat products and live animals, mainly sheep. Saudi Arabia is a substantial market for dairy products, vehicle parts and accessories, as well as a growing market for fresh vegetables, refined metals and information technology products. Meanwhile, Australian imports from Saudi Arabia in 2009-10 totalled $A462 million, which included mainly crude petroleum and fertilizer. Austrade is represented in both Riyadh and Jeddah, which reflects Saudi Arabia’s interest in expanding bilateral trade with Australia. Saudi-Australian bilateral trade has great potential to grow and cover in a comprehensive way all economic sectors. Over the years, the leaders of our countries have supported the bilateral economic relationship and we are committed to ensuring that relationship continues to flourish. I believe that the vision and goals expressed in Saudi Arabia-Australia: Regional leaders, global partners can be achieved through commitment shared by the leaders of our countries. This will enhance the effectiveness of our efforts to maximise the benefits of our bilateral trade. Abdulla A.Z. Alireza Minister of Commerce and Industry
6 | Foreword
Foreword
Australian Minister for Trade, the Hon Dr Craig Emerson MP I am very pleased to introduce Saudi Arabia–Australia: Regional leaders, global partners. Australia and Saudi Arabia enjoy a warm and friendly relationship, based on mutual interests and the very real benefits of our long-term commercial and economic partnership. Saudi Arabia is Australia’s second-largest trading partner in the Gulf, with total two-way trade valued at nearly $A2billion in 2009–10. It includes international education, live animals and automotives — Saudi Arabia is Australia’s single largest market for passenger motor vehicles. The ties of trade are strong and the growing number of Saudi students in Australian universities has strengthened people-to-people links. This expanding educational relationship is reflected in the Memorandum of Higher Education Cooperation between the two countries. A large number of Saudi students study in Australia each year — over 12,000 were enrolled in Australian educational institutions at the end of September 2010. And there are other growing people-to-people links. Nearly 5000 tourists from Saudi Arabia visit Australia each year, while over 4000 Australian citizens work in Saudi Arabia, mainly in health, education and other specialist areas. Australia and Saudi Arabia are looking at ways to further develop these ties. Australia and the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, including Saudi Arabia, have been engaged in negotiations for a free trade agreement. The Australian Government welcomes steps taken in recent years by Saudi Arabia to further open its economy to international trade and investment. Saudi Arabia offers business opportunities and will continue to be an important market in the Middle East for Australia. I commend Saudi Arabia–Australia: Regional leaders, global partners as a further contribution to our ever stronger commercial and economic relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Hon Dr Craig Emerson MP Minister for Trade
Foreword | 7
Introduction
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ambassador, HE Hassan Nazer As Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Commonwealth of Australia and to New Zealand, I have the pleasure to present this foreword. The Kingdom and Australia share a significant and important bilateral relation that is centred on exponential growth in the areas of existing trade, agricultural business, cultural, educational, scientific and people-to-people linkages. Ties between our nations are growing and developing on more than one level, and the progression of free trade negotiations between Australia and the GCC would present further opportunities for closer ties across the broad spectrum of political, trade and cultural exchanges, complementing the Kingdom's current strategic and commercial importance. The diversification of Saudi Arabia's economy, the rapid growth in educational, health, agricultural and manufacturing sectors, in addition to the development of economic cities, emphasise the strength and resilience of the country and the opportunities these sectors offer. Thousands of Saudi nationals have chosen to study at Australian educational institutions across many fields and many more are increasingly choosing to visit Australia for tourism. In 2009, the Foreign Exchange Program brought a trade balance of $A500 million, whilst in 2010 and 2011 this figure had risen in ratio with the increased number of students studying in Australia. Equally, there has been a marked increase in the number of Saudi delegations visiting Australia and Australian officials who have travelled extensively to the Kingdom in order to open new avenues of communication and research partnerships, as well as to sustain and build on current relations. This was highlighted in 2010 by the visit to Australia by His Excellency the Saudi Minister of Higher Education for the signing of educational, training, and scientific cooperation agreements with the Australian Government and universities. I sincerely believe that continued progress and reinforcement of current linkages between both nations can only further substantiate bilateral ties.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ambassador to Australia HE Hassan Nazer
8 | INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Australian Ambassador to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr Kevin Magee Both Australia and Saudi Arabia are young countries, yet blessed with venerable and rich human civilisations that long predate their foundation as modern states. Both are abundant in natural resources, yet dedicated to a modern, diverse economy that does not rely solely on our good fortune. And both Australia and Saudi Arabia are countries of breathtaking natural beauty. Australia’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is a vital part of our engagement with the Middle East. It is an exciting and dynamic relationship, marked by exchange in diverse areas, from education to trade and tourism. Our education relationship is going from strength to strength: student numbers have increased tenfold in the last few years, and there are currently more than 12,000 young Saudis studying at Australia’s world-class universities. Saudi students receive an excellent education, while enjoying the unique lifestyle, tolerant multicultural environment and great weather that Australia offers. Yet educational exchange is only one aspect of the strong people-to-people links between Australia and Saudi Arabia. Australians in Saudi Arabia make important contributions in sectors such as health, education and agriculture, and Saudi businesspeople are increasingly discovering Australia as a destination for investment. Tourism to Australia continues strongly. At the same time, bilateral trade is prospering. Our traditional exports of passenger motor vehicles and agricultural products have been joined by Australian activity in a host of other areas, such as health services, engineering consultancy and infrastructure development. Australia and Saudi Arabia also partner in the G-20, which has opened a whole new dimension of political and economic cooperation. Australian firms are also engaged in exciting projects in the construction, transport and mining sectors. This diversification bodes well for future economic relations between the countries. As the links between Australia and Saudi Arabia grow broader and deeper, I am confident that our two peoples will move forward in friendship and with a sense of common action to confront the challenges of the 21st century. Australian Ambassador to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mr Kevin Magee
INTRODUCTION | 9
Campus Mosque Screen, UPA Project, located at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia . Designed by Nja Mahdaoui as part of the KAUST International Art Program.
10 |
Introduction
CAAR Chair, Ahmed Fahour It is an honour to present this publication, Saudi Arabia-Australia — Regional leaders, global partners. This book has been made possible through the support of HE Hassan Talat Nazer, Ambassador of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia to Australia, and HE Kevin Magee, Australian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and through the involvement of a wide range of business and community leaders and companies. In today’s dynamic international trade, commercial and cultural environments, forging stronger connections is a vital part of developing opportunities for trade and business and a greater understanding of the culture and peoples in both nations. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Australia enjoy warm relations and many shared interests. Both countries have vast, dry environments, and relatively small populations dispersed over large distances with a wealth of natural resources. Both countries also have cultures forged from ancient traditions. Saudi Arabia and Australia are major countries in their respective regions of the world. We are both significant exporters of energy and mindful of the need to invest the proceeds of these resources for the future development of our nations. We are both also highly aware of the challenges of living and managing the ‘new oil’ of the future, water. Saudi Arabia-Australia — Regional leaders, global partners provides an overview of the importance and growing potential of the relationship between our two countries. As the new Chairman of the Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR), I commend this book to you. I am confident that through this publication, CAAR activities, bilateral exchanges, scholarships, and growing business, cultural and community contacts, both Australia and Saudi Arabia will develop a deeper mutual understanding and even closer relationship. CAAR Chair Ahmed Fahour
Introduction | 11
1
Kingdom Tower, also called Al-Mamlka Tower, is a skyscraper located in the city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is the 56th-tallest building in the world with a height of 302.3m (992ft).
part 1
The Saudi–Australian Relationship The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Australia share many common interests and values. The two countries have experienced challenges in common of often harsh and dry environments, building modern national infrastructures with limited populations, dispersed over large distances, and endeavouring to deploy their immense wealth of natural resources to ensure the future wellbeing of their peoples. Both countries achieved nationhood in the 20th Century, yet both have cultures and values forged from ancient traditions and from solid beliefs that continue to inform and enrich their everyday life. Saudi Arabia and Australia are both of considerable strategic importance in their respective regions of the world. They are energy giants: Saudi Arabia in oil and gas and Australia in coal, uranium and, increasingly, in natural gas. Both are mindful of the need to conserve and protect what is perhaps their most precious and precarious resource: water. This publication provides an in-depth review of the importance and growing potential of the relationship between these two significant countries — both vital to world trade. In addition to reviewing the many facets of their commercial engagement and raising awareness of mutual business opportunities, the aim | 13
The Australian Stock Exchange at 20 Bridge Street, Sydney.
is to consider the cultural and social aspects of life in both
The commercial environment
countries that underpin their value systems, and thereby
To many people, the relationship between the Kingdom
help to bring about a deeper understanding of each other’s
of Saudi Arabia and Australia seems largely one of trade —
culture and character.
of hydrocarbon products swapped for agricultural produce. Whilst this perception may have had some resonance in the
Shared economic outlook Saudi Arabia and Australia have weathered the global
past, the reality is far different today. In 2009, Saudi Arabia was Australia’s second-largest
financial crisis better than most. Through judicious
export market in the Middle East, with merchandise
management of their financial systems and sound
exports exceeding $A1.7 billion. In the same year, Saudi
governance principles they have avoided the excesses
Arabia was Australia’s 17th-largest global market, and
that have forced many countries into recession and long
the major market for Australian-made passenger motor
periods of economic austerity.
vehicles, which alone were worth $A811 million.
Australia and Saudi Arabia entered the crisis on a solid
The current leader in automotive exports is Toyota
financial footing. Both governments took rapid, decisive
Motor Corporation Australia (TMCA), which in October
action to support aggregate demand, whilst setting early
2010 exported its 500,000th vehicle to Saudi Arabia.
targets to restore budgetary balance. Both are resuming
TMCA has been manufacturing vehicles in Australia since
their trajectories of growth — and are well positioned to
1963, and in 2009–10 the company produced 105,826
share in each other’s burgeoning business opportunities.
Australian-made cars for the Australian and overseas
14 | Saudi Arabia — Australia
Australia and Saudi Arabia entered the global financial crisis on a solid financial footing and took rapid, decisive action to support aggregate demand to restore balance.
markets. The Toyota Camry has strong acceptance for
as well as vehicle parts and accessories. Saudi Arabia was
reliability — and has been a vehicle of choice for the taxi
Australia’s third-largest market in the Middle East for live
industry in Gulf countries — although competition from
sheep in 2009 — importing 576,000 head that were valued
Korea and elsewhere is growing.
at $A55 million.
The General Motors Holden (GMH) Caprice, badged
In response, Saudi Arabia's direct exports to Australia
Chevrolet Caprice for the Middle East market, is also a
totalled $A631 million in 2009, with approximately half
strong performer in Saudi Arabia, appreciated for its rear-
these exports being crude petroleum.
wheel drive performance, as was its previous stablemate,
The other exports, reflecting the sophistication of
the Statesman. The Holden Commodore, re-badged the
the Saudi petrochemical industries, were principally
Chevrolet Lumina, is also doing well. The Middle East is the
fertilisers, liquefied propane and butane, as well as
strongest-performing market for GMH.
primary ethylene polymers.
All Australian vehicles are acknowledged as well suited
The most prominent producer in this field is Saudi
to Saudi Arabia’s hot and dry weather conditions. They
Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), which is a world
have superior dust control and robust airconditioning,
leader in the manufacture of petrochemicals (such as
built as they are to perform in the extremes of the
olefins, oxygenates and aromatics, as well as a range of
Australian climate.
chemical intermediaries used in everyday essentials like
Australia’s other major exports to Saudi Arabia include barley, meat products (excluding beef) and dairy goods,
textiles, soaps and plastics), fertilisers (including urea and phosphates), and steel production. SABIC is the largest The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 15
His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud.
public company in Saudi Arabia, which in 2008 was
the prestigious King Abdullah University of Science and
ranked the No. 1 chemical producer in Asia and No. 4
Technology (KAUST) and the University of Wollongong in
in the world.
October 2010. This research partnership is similar to ones
In addition to this direct merchandise trade, a substantial indirect trade in petroleum products exists through Singapore’s major oil refining installations, where the
that KAUST has in place with universities of the calibre of Harvard, Stanford and Oxford. Other areas of research where there is a special
refined products of lighter Australian crude oil and those of
commonality of interest between Saudi Arabia and
heavier Saudi crudes are extensively swapped for different
Australia is in the field of dry-land farming, including
market applications throughout the Asia Pacific region.
the use of medics and other legumes to increase the
In the services sector, many Australian companies
productivity of land. In this context, it is interesting to
and more than 4000 Australian professionals, other
note the achievements of South Australian agronomists
experts and their families are living in Saudi Arabia,
and farmers in the introduction of exotic legumes to
and contributing to Saudi Arabia’s rapid modernisation
Australian soils. A number of the original medics were
and economic growth. Australians are well represented
sourced from the Middle East early last century and further
in construction and engineering, the oil industry, mining
cultivated in Australia. Both Australian and Saudi Arabian
and agribusiness, financial services, health, hospitality
agricultural experts are deeply engaged in redressing
and education.
the problems of soil salinity that afflict the soils of both
In May 2010, Australia and Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding in higher education to build stronger cooperative ties between their respective
countries, as well as the preservation of aquifers and overall water conservation and utilisation. There are some 12,500 Saudi students currently
higher education institutions, encouraging research
enrolled in Australian educational institutions, including
cooperation and the exchange of academic staff, researchers
undergraduate, postgraduate and research students.
and students between the two nations. An example of the
Since mid-2010, most, if not all, Saudi students studying
quality of this collaboration is the signing of a research
in Australia have been on full-support scholarships,
collaboration agreement in DNA replication between
provided by the King Abdullah Scholarships Program.
16 | Saudi Arabia — Australia
Previously, a small number of students covered their
Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud, holds
own expenses. The new provisions, recently introduced,
a 5.5 per cent interest in News Corporation’s common
are not restricted to the types of courses undertaken,
voting stock and is exploring possible media ventures
although there are guidelines with regard to the
with News Corp in the Middle East.
institutions selected for those programs. Saudi students have been well accepted in Australia and
In May 2009, Prince Alwaleed met with the then Foreign Minister, the Hon. Stephen Smith, to discuss
play an active role in their local communities. The Saudi
a range of matters, including future potential investments
Government also provides considerable social support,
of benefit also to Australia. The Minister invited Prince
in addition to financial assistance, to meet the needs of
Alwaleed to visit Australia to explore further business
its students studying in Australia, and has established the
opportunities.
Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) under the aegis of
Another significant Saudi organisation with interest in
the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Ministry
developing closer investment links with Australia is the
of Higher Education. SACM’s regional office for the Asia-
Olayan Group, a major private-sector conglomerate with
Pacific region was moved to Canberra in 2004, and sees to
over 50 subsidiary companies. It is also a global investor
the interests of Saudi students; it monitors their progress
in public and private equities.
and helps them to overcome issues that may impact their lives and impede their studies.
Olayan’s subsidiary, General Trading Company (GTC), is among the largest importers and distributors of consumer goods in Saudi Arabia, and has long-standing
Investment links
links with SunRice of Australia, one of the largest branded
In investment terms, Australian investments in Saudi
rice companies in the world.
Arabia in 2009 were estimated to total some $A64 million.
In terms of mobilising more capital for foreign
There are signs that this is increasing as a result of interest
investment, Saudi Arabia is in the process of creating
from the Australian mining and exploration industries. In
a sovereign wealth fund (SWF). The vehicle, Sanabil
June 2010, the Citadel Resource Group (ASX: CGG), which
al-Saudia, is managed under the umbrella of the Public
is now owned by Equinox, closed a $A250 million capital
Investment Fund (PIF), which was established in
raising for a joint venture in a high-grade copper and gold
1971 to facilitate the development of the country.
project at Jabal Sayid, some 350km northeast of Jeddah.
In 2008 Sanabil al-Saudia was formed, with an
Citadel, with its Saudi company, Bariq Mining, is focusing
investment capital of $US5.3 billion, initially to focus on
its exploration activities particularly on the Arabian Shield
investments in the technology sector. Market observers
region that flanks the Red Sea.
suggest that Sanabil al-Saudia is likely to broaden its
Saudi investment interest in Australia is also increasing significantly, although it is difficult to quantify investments as Saudi interests often do not need to disclose their
investment focus as it beds down its management teams and investment strategies. Also in 2008, the Saudi Government unveiled the
holdings as readily as publicly-listed foreign corporations.
Hassana Investment Company as a new vehicle to
Saudi investments tend to be made through private or
invest public pension funds in global equity markets.
government-owned corporations. A relatively recent
These moves were regarded as a significant break from
acquisition, in mid-2008, was Bemax Resources Limited,
tradition, as the Government of Saudi Arabia has pursued
a leading Western Australian mineral sands miner, by
conservative investment polices, managed through
a holding company of the Saudi National Titanium
the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA), Saudi
Dioxide Company Limited (known as Cristal), which is
Arabia’s central bank.
headquartered in Jeddah. Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), one of the
The Financial Times reported in March 2009 that “85 per cent of the Kingdom’s foreign reserves of some
world’s largest and most diversified private investment
$US500 billion are in dollar-denominated, fixed-income
companies, founded by the financial visionary, HRH
securities and, unlike other Gulf states, it does not yet The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 17
Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Stephen Smith MP, speaking to reporters during a bilateral meeting with US counterparts in the government's first top-level talks on security and strategic issues.
have an active sovereign wealth fund.” Saudi Arabia is
region and across the world, and work together to promote
known to be a strategic investor that takes the long view.
collective security. As members of the Group of Twenty
It prepares carefully as it enters new fields.
(G20) major economies, Australia and Saudi Arabia consult
These developments, however, suggest that it is the
and cooperate on matters relating to the international
intention of the Saudi investment authorities, similar to
financial system. Finance ministers and central bank
their private sector counterparts, to broaden the geographic
governors of G20 countries meet on a regular basis, and
spread of their investment portfolios. Australia, as a highly
heads of government attend G20 summits. The importance
attractive, low-risk and business-friendly environment,
of the G20 was recognised during the GFC in 2008, when
appears likely to attract significant interest.
all member countries introduced a number of coordinated and far-reaching measures to restore confidence and re-
The political context Saudi Arabia and Australia enjoy a long-standing
balance international financial markets. Australia is also in dialogue with the Gulf Cooperation
friendship. Australia established its first embassy in Jeddah
Council (GCC), the high-level, consultative body of the six
in 1974, and this subsequently was moved to Riyadh in
Arabs states of the Gulf region of which Saudi Arabia is
1984. Saudi Arabia established its embassy in Canberra
a key member. The other five states are Bahrain, Kuwait,
in 1983 with the presentation of credentials by the
Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The
Ambassador, HE Abdul Rahman Nasser Abdula Alohaly.
headquarters of the GCC is in Riyadh. Negotiations have
Australia recognises the Kingdom’s strategic importance
been proceeding since 2007 on a free trade agreement
in the Middle East and appreciates the key role it plays
(FTA) covering goods (rules of origin, government
in promoting stability in the region — as well as in
procurement, customs procedures, technical barriers to
international energy markets. Both countries have shared
trade and sanitary and phytosanitary measures), services
interests in combating terrorism and extremism within the
(including cross-border trade, education, movement of
18 | Saudi Arabia — Australia
Group leaders at the G-20 Summit 2010 in Seoul, South Korea. Pictured above in the top row, third from the left, is Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Prince Saud al-Faisal, and in the middle row, third from the right, Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard.
natural persons, e-commerce, telecommunications and
matters related to defence procurement, acquisition
financial services), investment, intellectual property,
and industry activities.
competition policy, institutional and framework provisions, as well as dispute resolution. At this time it is not possible
Cultural connections
to estimate when the agreement will be finalised as
In Australia today there are more than 360,000 people
there are several differences of definition and approach
who identify themselves as Muslim. Close to 40 per cent
remaining to be resolved.
of these people are Australian-born. The remainder come
The Australian Government also maintains dialogue
from a wide range of countries, principally from the Middle
with the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC),
East (especially Lebanon and Turkey) and North Africa.
which has its headquarters in Jeddah.
The numbers of Muslims resident in Australia of Saudi
The OIC is a highly influential, collective voice of the
Arabian origin are small, and in the main are comprised of
Muslim world and has a membership of 57 states. It is
students and their families who intend eventually to return
also the world's second-largest international organisation
home after completing their studies.
after the United Nations.
Muslims in Australia have a special affinity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the centre of the Islamic
Defence relations
world and site of the Holy Cities of Makka and Medinah.
Australia and Saudi Arabia maintain close relations
The two great pilgrimages, of the Hajj and Umrah, attract
between their respective defence forces.
several thousand Australian Muslims each year. Many
Two Australian defence attachĂŠs are accredited to
others travel the same route at other times of the year,
the Australian Embassy in Riyadh and are responsible
and this type of visit is known as the Umrah, or lesser
for liaison with the Saudi Ministry of Defence with
pilgrimage. The Saudi royal family and government have
respect to defence policy issues, training and other
been generous to the Australian Muslim community and The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 19
The Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Prince Saud Al Faisal.
supported the construction and maintenance of a large number of mosques and schools across the country.
In Australia football is played in a number of codes, from Australian Rules, through Rugby League and Rugby Union. For many years, soccer, as football was previously
Sporting ties
known, was the junior partner. In the last few years,
Sport is one of the strongest links between countries.
however, the game has grown rapidly in popularity under
Australia has much closer relations with India, for
the stewardship of the Football Federation of Australia
example, as a result of cricket, than might otherwise be
(FFA), formerly known as Soccer Australia. The sport
the case. In the past, sporting links between Saudi Arabia
is now attracting much larger audiences, especially
and Australia have been relatively limited, other than
after Australia placed 16th in the 2006 World Cup and
through the Olympic movement. Since 2006, however,
qualified again for the Cup in 2010, although eliminated
when Australia was accepted into the Asian Football
in the first round.
Confederation (AFC), the two countries have begun to meet more regularly on the sporting pitch. Football is one of Saudi Arabia’s major national sports,
Both Saudi Arabia and Australia will be represented in the final rounds of the Asian Cup in Qatar in 2011, and there will be many opportunities for Saudi Arabian and
and Saudi football teams have been amongst the most
Australian teams to meet on football fields in future. The
prominent in Asian and world competition. Saudi Arabia
games will attract large spectator and viewing audiences in
has won the Asian Cup on three occasions (in 1984,
their respective countries, thus building more people-to-
1988 and 1996) and has been runner-up three other
people contacts and extending sporting links.
times (in 1992, 2000 and 2007). It qualified for the
Horse racing, endurance riding and show jumping are
final rounds of the four World Cups between 1994 and
popular pursuits in both countries, and will be covered in
2006, and narrowly missed qualifying again in 2010.
the section on the equine trade. Camel racing is of appeal,
20 | Saudi Arabia — Australia
Saudi Arabia’s bilateral aid program has contributed to close to 4000 projects in over 70 countries (including over 40 African and 25 Asian nations) since its inception.
too, and Australian camels have raced with some success
According to the Development Cooperation Directorate of
in the region. Scuba diving, windsurfing and sailing are
the OECD, Saudi Arabia’s development assistance increased
also very popular in both countries.
from $US1.7 billion in 2004 to $US5.6 billion in 2008. Based on these figures, the Kingdom’s development assistance as
Development assistance programs
a percentage of gross national income grew from 0.5 per cent
Both Saudi Arabia and Australia have extensive bilateral
in 2005 to 1.5 per cent in 2008 — a three-fold increase.
humanitarian assistance and development programs.
The Australian Agency for International Development
Both are active in international agencies, such as the
(AusAID), established in 1974, is the Australian
various United Nations assistance programs, the World
Government agency responsible for managing Australia’s
Food Program and the International Monetary Fund (IMF),
overseas aid program. It operates across an arc of countries
as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross.
from the Pacific Islands, through southeast and south
Saudi Arabia’s bilateral aid program has contributed to
Asia, into the Middle East and Africa. AusAID plans
close to 4000 projects in over 70 countries (including over
and coordinates Australia’s poverty relief programs
40 African and 25 Asian nations, and five other countries,
and development assistance, as well as responses to
such as Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania) since its inception.
humanitarian disasters previously undertaken by a range
The Saudi Development Fund (SDF) was established in
of government departments. AusAID’s current program
1975 as the prime agency to deliver development assistance
for the financial year 2009–10 is valued at $A3.8 billion.
through a range of instruments, including concessional
It gives priority to programs that generate employment,
loans for in-country projects, budgetary and policy support,
develop sustainable agriculture and deliver basic services
as well as debt relief programs. Like Australia, Saudi Arabia
such as healthcare and education. It is targeted to provide
has increased its development assistance in recent years.
assistance to the most vulnerable. The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 21
Doing business in Saudi Arabia Dr Glen Simpson Global Leader, Coffey International Development Deputy Chair, Council of Arab Australian Relations
Coffey International Development started working in Saudi Arabia in the early 1990s on a contract basis in farming, irrigated agriculture and livestock management. We formed a joint venture with Saudi partners in 2006–2007 in environment and defence related areas, as a result of which we formed a number of formal joint ventures in 2009–2010. Saudi Arabia is a sophisticated trading society. Saudi business people and companies have a long and deep relationship with UK and US companies. Yet Australian companies wanting to conduct business in Saudi Arabia need to be acutely aware that it is a highly competitive market and winning a share of it takes time.
Understanding business processes in Saudi Arabia A prerequisite for conducting business in Saudi Arabia is an understanding of the significant differences between Western and Arab business styles. Saudi business people do not have the same time imperative as Westerners. In Saudi, as in other Arab countries, corporate life is driven much more by family and government than it is in Australia. In this more private structure, the need to complete transactions swiftly is not as great. The Australian/Western company structure is much more focused on a public company model, including all the reporting and public accountability this entails. Quarterly reporting imperatives often drive Western business people to attempt to contract and complete deals quickly. By contrast, Arab businesses operate in a different cultural context — one that is significantly more driven by relationships than transactions. The Australian companies that are successful in this environment understand and adapt to this fact.
Building relationships At Coffey we learnt early on that to create a successful business in Saudi Arabia you must have an authentic desire to create, build and support deep relationships with the people with whom you wish to work. We commenced our operations here in the transactional style. While we operated relatively successfully, it was not until we started to build strong relationships that we developed a good business in Saudi. I personally value the personal relationships over and above the business links. If relationships are right, the business will develop. 22 |
It is also vital to understand the role Islam plays in Saudi Arabia. In Australia and the West generally, we tend to divide our lives between business, family, recreation and government. In the Saudi/Islamic context, business, family and government are closely related. An awareness of the seamlessness of these elements is critical to an understanding of business here, particularly with respect to the role of women. Thanks to the closeness of Saudi families, the influence Saudi women enjoy at home extends to government and business. This is something we, as Australians, need to understand and appreciate.
Key opportunities for growth Saudi Arabia and Australia are both resource-based economies that are impacted on by fluctuations in the prices of commodities. In essence, our economies have similar drivers, even though Saudi Arabia has less financial
Dr Glen Simpson, Deputy Chair for Council of Arab Australian
constraints than Australia.
Relations, Coffey International Development.
We are both relatively young countries whose origins are, to a large extent, rural. We both have a strong connection
increase the self-reliance of the Saudi economy, it is giving
to the land and draw confidence from our close links to it.
Saudis an opportunity to experience other cultures and
Australians and Saudis have a deserved reputation for resilience and for overcoming challenges. The harshness of both countries’ environments has
structures through international education. Australia is now an important part of that global educational offering for Saudis as it is seen as a friendly,
created similar characteristics within our people and we
safe environment as well as a hub for business and finance
can relate to each other on this quite deep level. This
throughout Asia.
self-sufficiency and resilience is a key element of engineering and technical services sectors. We’re known
Australia’s multicultural environment is also a great positive
for getting the job done.
From a business perspective, Australia offers strong
Australian companies’ success in the infrastructure,
Yet the demographics of our populations are different
a jurisdictional framework that is clear and relatively
and herein lies a good opportunity for Australia. In Saudi
easy to operate in. Australia has strong and stable business
Arabia there is a high percentage of people under 30.
and financial systems in which the processes are familiar
The process of “Saudisation” — introducing Saudis to
and barriers to entry relatively low. In addition, state
roles, professions and jobs that were previously undertaken
and federal governments are strong supporters of
by expatriates — is driving strong growth in education and
Saudi investment.
the training of Saudi youth. Education and training is an important foundation for national economic development. As well as helping to
Australians like to build strong relationships with the people and companies they work with and this fits in with the strong relationship-based nature of Saudi business. The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 23
Quest for common understanding Hon Robert J Hawke Former Prime Minister of Australia, Patron of the International Centre for Muslim and non-Muslim Understanding at the University of South Australia
Following my recent visit to Saudi Arabia as part of the Australian Gulf Council trade mission to the Middle East in December 2010, it was clear there are significant opportunities for Saudi Arabian and Australian trade and commerce. One key area is food security, both in terms of importing Australian produce and in terms of investment in Australia from Saudi Arabia. Food security is of fundamental importance to Saudi Arabia and an area where we in Australia have a natural competitive advantage. Another key area is educational services. The demographics of Saudi Arabia, with a high percentage of young people, and the commitment of the government to educating the next generation, means there are good opportunities for mutual advantage in the delivery of education for Saudi students both in Australia and in Saudi Arabia. The opening of the new co-educational university in Jeddah is a clear sign of this commitment and the growing engagement of women. Saudi business and government leaders have a strong and deep appreciation for Australians born out of Australia’s positive and important role during World War II. This provides a level of respect for Australians and an appreciation of the way in which we conduct our business and professional dealings. My travel around the world over the past 40 years has made me keen to bring together Muslim and non-Muslim people to create common understanding. The formation of the Centre for Muslim and non-Muslim Understanding at the University of South Australia is a key part of this. Led by Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia, the Centre will have a new focus on the triggers for prejudice that present barriers to dialogue and understanding and to transcending the divide between the Muslim and non-Muslim worlds.
24 |
Western Australian Trade Office Middle East Government of Western Australia Western Australia Western Australia is an ideal location for business, investment, study or a holiday. The largest state in Australia, it has a diverse landscape ranging from rugged outback areas to lush green forests, and a vibrant capital city.
Western Australia has it all Western Australia has a diverse and internationally competitive economy that, for the past 10 years, has led Australia in economic growth, productivity, investments and exports. It is well known for its world-class mineral, petroleum and agriculture sectors. Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, offers investment opportunities for
Expanding trade and tourism links
business and tourism.
Western Australia and its capital city, Perth, offer many exciting opportunities for holidays, business and tourism investment from Saudi Arabia. With the state’s booming economy leading Australia through a period of prosperity, Western Australia provides a buoyant investment climate, particularly within the tourism and agribusiness sectors. The people and government of Western Australia look forward to welcoming visitors and business investors from Saudi Arabia in the near future.
Western Australian agribusiness
barley, cattle, meat, canola and horticultural products.
The Department of Agriculture and Food is committed
In addition, there is increasing demand for high quality
to accelerating the success of Western Australia’s
processed food.
agriculture, food and fibre industries through the
There is a range of opportunities available for investors
provision of information, science and innovation, industry
in the agri-food industry in Western Australia, including
development, responsible management of natural
the production, processing and export of grain and fodder,
resources, policy development and regulation across all
meat and live animals, dairy and horticultural products.
elements of the supply chain.
AGWEST International, the consulting arm of the
Western Australia’s world-class agricultural and food
Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia,
industries provide premium quality food and beverage
offers worldwide consultancy services in agriculture and
products to customers throughout the world, including
agribusiness.
significant exports to the Middle East. The state’s major agricultural and food exports to the Middle East are sheep,
Western Australia is a land of opportunity for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 25
AACL
Australian grain industry Australia is a major player in the international grains industry, producing on average in excess of 30 million tonnes of wheat and barley each year. Australia’s reputation for world-leading infrastructure and farming practices, as well as its proximity to key markets in the Middle East and Asia, makes it an excellent destination for investment and long-term procurement of grain stocks.
AACL background AACL operates a unique production investment model through which it partners investors with experienced professional farmers to grow large-scale crops such as wheat, barley and canola.
2011 Grain Project The Grain Project model brings together investors and
Land investment
existing professional farmers to grow crops. The Project
In addition to the Grain Project, AACL has developed
provides the working capital, while the farmers provide
a land investment model under which it will acquire
the land, equipment and expertise required to grow and
Australian agricultural land primarily for large-scale
harvest the grain each year.
production of grains and oilseeds. Investors in the model
Farmers participate in the returns from the sale of grain above a performance benchmark, with AACL, farmers and investors sharing the risk and returns
co-invest with farmers, thereby ensuring the interests of both parties are aligned. The investment structure can be varied to suit the
associated with and generated by growing the crops
investor’s requirements. Similarly, long-term grain off-take
each season. Investors receive annual returns from
agreements can be negotiated if desired.
the production and sale of the grain and can negotiate grain off-take arrangements with AACL. AACL mitigates production risk by operating in multiple
AACL has developed a unique food security solution which
locations and pooling the crops to significantly reduce
combines an investment in quality agricultural land with
the production risk inherent in growing grain in a small
investment into annual grain production. A shortfall
number of locations.
agreement with a major commodity group can also be
In its capacity as manager of the project, AACL has entered a three-year agreement with leading international commodity trading group, Glencore, to market and provide price risk management strategies for the grain.
26 |
Food security solution
attached to the combined investment.
Australian World Trading Trade and investment
As long-standing advocates for developing closer trading relations with countries in the Middle East, the principals of Australian World Trading — Karl Kazal and his brother Tony Kazal — are very pleased to participate in this inaugural publication exploring the cooperation opportunities on offer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Advancing bilateral trade For some years, Australian World Trading has been actively involved in introducing both Australian federal and state government representatives to their counterparts in the Kingdom, with the goal of advancing bilateral trade and
The principals of Australian World Trading, Karl Kazal and his brother Tony Kazal.
investment between Australia and Saudi Arabia. Participating in the Saudi Arabia-Australia Joint
earmarked for the creation of a University for Science and
Ministerial Commission in Riyadh in 2006, Karl became
Technology. The King envisions the University being a place
acutely aware of the considerable advances in the
where the world’s leading scientists and scholars will gather
Kingdom since his last visit in 2003. This was apparent in
and mingle freely — men and women, from the East and
the proliferation of construction projects in the capital,
West, all united in their pursuit of learning.
blending ancient features with the modernity of a city with 5.8 million residents. The agenda of the Commission also highlighted common concerns of both countries, including agriculture, water
A future educational collaboration between Australia and the Kingdom could bring an inestimable mutual benefit to both our countries. On behalf of our company, we hope that you will find
and energy resources, health, education and training, oil/
this publication informative and it will encourage you
minerals, transport, tourism, science and technology, and
to further investigate the commercial and cultural
WTO cooperation.
opportunities in Saudi Arabia.
Growing young market Currently, Australia’s key exports to the Kingdom comprise passenger motor vehicles, barley and fresh, chilled or frozen meat (excluding beef). However, with the predominance of under-20-year-olds in the Kingdom (almost half of the Saudi population is in this age bracket) another viable export for Australia is the provision of expertise in educational and training services. Under the inventive leadership of King Abdullah, an endowment in the order of $US25 billion has been
The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 27
Glossary of terms
138 |
AACCI
Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry
GCC
Gulf Cooperation Council
ACCC
Australian Competition & Consumer Commission
GDP
Gross Domestic Product
ACCI
Australia Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc.
GFC
Global financial crisis
ACST
Australian Central Standard Time
GIRU
Griffith Islamic Research Unit
AEST
Australian Eastern Standard Time
GMH
General Motors Holden (Australia)
AFC
Asian Football Confederation
GOSI
General Organization for Social Insurance
ANZAC
Australian and New Zealand Army Corps
GSFMO
Grain Silos and Flour Mills Organisation (KSA)
APRA
Australian Prudential Regulation Authority
GST
Goods and Services Tax
AQIS
Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service
GUCCIAA General Union of Chambers of Commerce,
ASIC
Australian Securities & Investments Commission
ASX
Australian Securities Exchange
HIA
Housing Industry Association of Australia
ATO
Australian Taxation Office
ICAO
International Civil Aviation Organisation
AusAID
Australian Agency for International Development
ICRC
International Committee of the Red Cross
AWST
Australian Western Standard Time
IFC
International Finance Corporation
BOO build-own-operate
IMF
International Monetary Fund
BOOT build-own-operate-transfer
IWPP
independent water and power project
CAAR
Council for Australian-Arab Relations
KACST
King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KSA)
CBA
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
KAEC
King Abdullah Economic City (KSA)
CE
Christian era
KAUST
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
CIF
cost, insurance and freight
DFAT
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia)
km kilometres
ECRA
Electricity & Cogeneration Regulatory Authority (KSA)
KSA
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
FDI
Foreign direct investment
KSU
King Saud University
FFA
Football Federation of Australia
LCL
less than container load
FIRB
Foreign Investment Review Board
MEED
Middle East Economic Digest
FTA
Free Trade Agreement
MOH
Ministry of Health (KSA)
G20
Group of Twenty
MoU
memorandum of understanding
Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries
(KSA)
NAB
National Australia Bank
NBN
National Broadband Network
NWC
National Water Company
OECD
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
OEM
original equipment manufacturer
OEM
original equipment manufacturer
OIC
Organisation of the Islamic Conference
PIF
Public Investment Fund (KSA)
Qur’an
Koran — the holy book of Islam
R&D
Research and development
RTCC
Al-Rashid Trading and Construction Company
SABIC
Saudi Basic Industries Corporation
SACM
Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (KSA)
SAMA
Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority
SASO
Saudi Arabian Standards Organization
SDF
Saudi Development Fund
SEC
Saudi Electricity Company
SWF
Sovereign wealth fund
SWRO
seawater reverse osmosis
TMCA
Toyota Motor Corporation Australia
UAE
United Arab Emirates
UFC
United Feed Company (KSA)
WA
Western Australia
WEC
Water and Electricity Company (KSA)
WHO
World Health Organization
WTO
World Trade Organisation Glossary | 139
Business Directory
AACL AACL is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange as AACL Holdings Limited (ASX: AAY). AACL is a leading agricultural business which manages the largest grain production enterprises in the country. AACL brings together investors and professional farmers to produce grain and to manage and own agricultural land. Level 1, Suite 5, 12-20 Railway Road, Subiaco WA 6008, Australia PO Box 171, Subiaco WA 6904, Australia Tel: +61 8 9217 3777 Fax: +61 8 9217 3799 Email: info@aacl.com.au www.aacl.com.au
Academies Australasia Academies Australasia has arrangements with leading higher education institutions in Australia and overseas. Its graduates have successfully completed a broad range of degrees and other programs at institutions such as Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, Charles Sturt University, Curtin University, Griffith University, Macquarie University, Sydney University, University of Ballarat, University of New South Wales, University of Technology Sydney and Le Cordon Bleu. Level 6, 505 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Tel: +61 2 9224 5500 Fax: +61 2 9224 5560 Email: info@aca.nsw.edu.au www.aca.nsw.edu.au
The Australian Industrial Systems Institute (AISI) The Australian Industrial Systems Institute (AISI) is a well equipped, modern and highly progressive institution offering unique education and career opportunities to students from all over the globe. The main campus of AISI is located in Melbourne, Australia's education capital. The main language of instruction in all program areas is English. Level 2, 213-215 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia Tel: +61 3 9671 4400 Fax: +61 3 9671 4440 Email: roula@aisi.edu.au www.aisi.edu.au
Australian Industrial Systems Institute
140 |
The Australia Gulf Council The Australia Gulf Council brings together corporate, government and diplomatic representatives at the highest level to facilitate increased trade and investment flows. Level 7, 8 Spring St, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia Phone: Michael Yabsley +61 420 961 888 Georgie Skipper +61 404 666 924 Level 9, Jameel Square, Corner Tahlia and Al Andalus Street, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Tel +966 2 283 4516 Fax: +966 2 283 4517 Email: info@australiagulfcouncil.com www.australiagulfcouncil.com Michael Yabsley, Chief Executive myabsley@australiagulfcouncil.com Georgie Skipper, Corporate and Government Affairs gskipper@australiagulfcouncil.com
Australian World Trading Pty Ltd The Middle East is brimming with opportunities, however, the path to success can be complex. A speciality of our company is sourcing and connecting partner companies for the formation of long-lasting and fruitful relationships. Many successful Joint Ventures have been initiated for Australian businesses searching for market opportunities or to engage in other strategic investments. Suite 5, Opera Quays, 3b Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Tel: +61 2 9252 2566 Fax: +61 2 9247 5751 Email: reception@awtrading.biz www.awtrading.biz
CQUniversity Australia CQUniversity Australia has over 5,000 international students from more than 60 countries. Whether you are interested in Business, Creative and Performing Arts, Education, Engineering, Health and Exercise Science, Humanities, IT, Science and the Environment or Research Higher Degrees, there is a program that’s right for you. Kick start your career or push it higher with a qualification from CQUniversity Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Rockhampton or Sydney. Our experience in delivering education to Australian and international students means you will enjoy quality learning opportunities with extensive academic, personal and career support. Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sydney, Rockhampton Email: int-enquiries@cqu.edu.au www.cquni.edu.au
The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 141
Business Directory
Coffey International Limited Coffey is a leading global professional services consultancy focusing on both physical and social infrastructure. Coffey uses specialist knowledge to deliver extraordinary outcomes for its clients across the full lifecycle of a project, from concept to completion. Operating for more than 50 years, Coffey is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX:COF). Coffey has over 3000 people working in more than 80 countries around the globe and has permanent offices throughout the Americas, Europe the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. Eight specialist service lines operate across the infrastructure, resources, government and property sectors. Coffey International Ltd Tel: +61 8 8375 4400 M: +61 411 481 974 Fax: +61 8 8375 4499 Email: rod_reeve@coffey.com www.coffey.com
Curtin University Curtin University provides quality study programs to over 42,000 students in the Asia-Pacific region. The University offers a wide range of flexible, applied degrees through four main faculties: Business, Science and Engineering, Health Sciences and Humanities. Many courses are professionally accredited and include work placements to help students develop strong practical skills. Curtin International GPO Box S1512, Perth 6845 Western Australia Tel: +61 8 9266 7331 Fax: +61 8 9266 2605/4013 Email: international@curtin.edu.au www.international.curtin.edu.au
CRICOS Provider Code: 00301J
Equinox Minerals Limited Equinox Minerals Limited is an international mining company that is dual listed in Australia and Canada. It is currently focused on operating its 100 per cent-owned, large scale Lumwana copper mine in Zambia (one of the largest new copper mines developed in the world over the last decade) and the construction of the Jabal Sayid Copper-Gold project in Saudi Arabia. It acquired the Jabal Sayid project in 2010 as the project entered the construction phase, with first production scheduled for 2012. Jabal Sayid is located within the Arabian Shield minerals province, 350 kilometres northeast of the Red Sea port city of Jeddah. Ground Floor, 50 Kings Park Road, West Perth WA 6005, Australia Tel: +61 8 9322 3318 Fax: +61 8 9324 1195 Email: equinox@equinoxminerals.com www.equinoxminerals.com 142 |
Educational Testing Service Educational Testing Service (ETS) is the global leader in educational assessments, including developing and administering the most respected English-language proficiency test, the TOEFL® test. More than 8000 institutions in over 130 countries, including the top universities in the US, Canada, UK and Australia, use TOEFL scores to make decisions about their applicants’ English proficiency. Rosedale Road, Princeton, NJ 08540 Tel: +1 609 683 2008 Email: toeflnews@ets.org www.ets.org/toefl
Government of Victoria The government of the Australian state of Victoria is a leading developer of innovation and industry hubs designed to provide access to the benefits of the state’s outstanding research infrastructure and intellectual leadership. The 4 million inhabitants of the state capital, Melbourne, come from more than 130 nations – making the modern city one of the most multicultural in the world. The concentration of higher education students and research expertise has cemented Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s knowledge capital. Victorian Government Business Office — MENA Office 111, Emarat Atrium Building, Sheikh Zayed Rd. PO Box 58004, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +9714 321 2600 Fax: +9714 321 2700 Email: dubai@invest.vic.gov.au www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au
Griffith University Ranked in the top 4 per cent of universities worldwide (Times HES-QS World Ranking), Griffith has built a reputation for identifying emerging career fields and developing programs for tomorrow’s job market. With the incorporation of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) backed up by leading-edge research from 40 world-class research centres, Griffith delivers realworld experience relevant to your area of study. Degrees from Griffith don’t just open doors, they create them. Nathan Campus, Queensland 4111, Australia Tel: +61 (0)7 3735 6425 Fax: +61 (0)7 3735 6646 Email: international@griffith.edu.au www.grifffith.edu.au/international
The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 143
Business Directory
Meat & Livestock Australia Australia is one of the world's largest red meat and livestock exporters. Australian meat is recognised internationally as being free of all major epidemic diseases. To maintain Australia’s high product standards, the Australian livestock industry and all levels of government work together to develop stringent standards and systems to ensure the integrity and traceability of Australian meat. Level 1, 165 Walker Street,
PO Box 5622 Manama
North Sydney NSW 2060, Australia
Kingdom Of Bahrain
Tel: +61 2 9463 9333
Tel: +97 3 1722 3003
Fax: +61 2 9463 9393
Fax: +97 3 1722 5394
Email: info@mla.com.au www.mla.com.au
Monash University Monash University was established in 1958. In just half a century, it has grown to become Australia’s largest university, and one of its most prestigious. As a university with brave ambitions, Monash wants to be defined by its ability to change people’s lives for the better – not only the lives of its students, but the lives of people around the world. It will continue to do so through its education, its research and its global reach. Monash University, Clayton campus Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia Tel: +61 3 9902 6000 Fax: +61 3 9905 4007 Email: study@monash.edu www.monash.edu
National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies The University of Melbourne The National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies Australia is a three-university partnership between the University of Melbourne (where the Centre is based), Griffith University and the University of Western Sydney. It is funded by the Australian government to provide higher education courses in Islamic studies to Muslim and non-Muslim students. The Centre aims to advance knowledge and understanding of the rich traditions and modern complexities of Islam. It brings together expertise in teaching and research in Islamic studies and plays a leading role in public debates on contemporary Islam, particularly in the Australian context. National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies Australia University of Melbourne, Asia Institute Sidney Myer Asia Centre, Victoria, 3010 Australia Tel: +61 3 8344 3559 www.nceis.unimelb.edu.au 144 |
nib nib offers a range of health cover options suitable all overseas customers. Whether you are in Australia, from overseas or coming to Australia to live, work or study, nib has health insurance suitable for you. nib cover helps you pay for things like hospital, medical and everyday extras such as dental and optical. It’s easy to understand and easy to use. Plus, you can do everything online, including claiming your benefits. Tel: 13 14 63 (within Australia), if outside of Australia call +61 2 4914 1100 Fax: 02 49291900 Email: nib@nib.com.au www.nib.com.au
PwC From initial intelligence gathering and strategy development through to deal execution, tax and compliance, PwC is uniquely positioned to assist investors seeking opportunities in Australia and across the Gulf region. We provide a full range of assurance, tax and advisory services for both corporate and private clients. Darling Park Tower 2, 201 Sussex Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Tel: +61 2 8266 0000 Fax: +61 2 8266 9999 http://pwc.com.au
University of Ballarat The University of Ballarat (UB) is Australia’s only regional multi-sector university. We are the third-oldest site of higher learning in Australia, and offer secondary schooling, technical and further education (TAFE), higher education, and research opportunities. We have three campuses in Ballarat (Mt Helen, SMB and Camp Street), one in Horsham, one in Stawell and one in Ararat. We also work with a range of partner institutes across Australia and the world. Mt Helen Campus, University Drive, Mt Helen Victoria 3350, Australia Tel: 1300 225 527 or 03 5327 9018 Fax: 03 5327 9017 Email: international@ballarat.edu.au www.ballarat.edu.au
The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 145
Business Directory
University of Canberra University of Canberra degrees and qualifications are respected and accepted worldwide. There is an extensive portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate courses on offer from seven faculties, Applied Science, Arts and Design, Business and Government, Education, Health, Information Sciences and Engineering and Law. The university is home to a thriving research culture. Research in areas such as biometrics, ecology, economic modelling, forensics, governance, urban planning and virology deliver real-life solutions to real-world challenges. University of Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia Tel: 1800 864 226 Email: international@canberra.edu.au www.canberra.edu.au
University of Melbourne The University of Melbourne is the leading Australian research university that has helped shape Melbourne and Australia’s social, cultural and scientific life for more than 150 years. Students from over 100 countries, including the Saudi Arabia, are welcomed to the university. The university’s emphasis on innovation, critical thinking, research and the ongoing pursuit of new teaching methodologies has led to it being ranked 36th in the world and 9th for the employability of its graduates. (THE and QS World Rankings, 2010) Information Centre, University of Melbourne, Swanston St, Parkville 3052, Australia Tel: +61 3 8344 6543 Fax: +61 3 9349 1291 Email: admissions-info@unimelb.edu.au www.unimelb.edu.au
University of Western Sydney The University of Western Sydney (UWS) is a modern, progressive university committed to providing relevant courses for today’s rapidly changing world. With a student population of over 40,000, UWS is one of the largest universities in Australia. Its academics are leaders in their field and work hard to share their knowledge and passion with every student. UWS aims to bring knowledge to life by combining academic study with hands-on practical experience to ensure its students are career ready when they complete their degree. UWS International Office, Building ES, UWS Parramatta Campus, Corner James Ruse Drive & Victoria Road, Rydalmere NSW 2116, Australia Postal address: UWS International Office, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith NSW 2751 Tel: +61 2 9685 9526 or Fax: +61 2 9685 9520 Email: ea.int@uws.edu.au www.uws.edu.au/international 146 |
UWS CRICOS Provider Number: 00917K
Wellard Saudi Trading Co. Ltd Wellard Saudi Trading Co. Ltd is the first Saudi-Australian livestock and meat trading company established in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its primary activity is the import of quality Australian live sheep and cattle. Its long-term vision is to develop a state-of-the-art system to condition and deliver livestock for direct Saudi wholesale and retail sales. Mr Fawzi Ghandour, Managing Director F.Ghandour@wellard.com.au Tha’albeh Feedlot, Khomra District, Jeddah – Saudi Arabia 21544 PO Box 55703 - Jeddah – Saudi Arabia 21544 Tel: +966 2 236 1313 www.wellard.com.au
Western Australia Trade Office (WATO) Middle East Western Australia is an ideal location for business, investment, study or a holiday. It has a diverse and internationally competitive economy that, for the past 10 years, has led Australia in economic growth, productivity, investments and exports. Western Australia is well known for its world-class mineral, petroleum and agriculture sectors, which form the basis of a thriving business environment. Western Australian Trade Office Suite 106, Emarat Atrium Building, Sheikh Zayed Road PO Box 58007, Dubai, UAE Tel: +9714 343 3226 Fax: +9714 343 3238 Email: info@wato.ae www.dsd.wa.gov.au www.agric.wa.gov.au
WorleyParsons WorleyParsons is one of the world’s largest engineering and project delivery companies. It has successfully completed multi-billion dollar projects in the hydrocarbons, power, minerals and metals, and infrastructure markets across the world. WorleyParsons has been executing projects in Saudi Arabia for over 50 years and has a proud tradition of localisation. Ed Smith, Country Director Al Khobar, Al Jazirah Center, 3rd Floor, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 3 807 9004 Fax: +966 3 881 3781 Email: ed.smith@worleyparsons.com www.worleyparsons.com
The Saudi — Australian Relationship | 147
Index A AACCI 43, 111, 114, 116, 133 AACL 26, 140 Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, King 34, 44, 102 Academies Australasia 72–73, 140 ACCI 133 agents 117 background checklist 118–119 agribusiness investments 49, 52–55 feasibility and market analysis 53–54 AGWEST International 25 Ahluwalia, Pal, Professor 24 Al Arrab Contracting Co. Ltd 90 Al Habtoor Leighton Group 56 Al Haramain High Speed Rail link 88 Al-Alamy, Fawaz, Dr 44 Alireza, Abdulla Ahmed Zainal, (H.E.) 6 Alohaly, Abdul Rahman Nasser Abdula (H.E.) 18 Alwaleed Bin Talal Abdulaziz Alsaud, Prince 17, 135 animal welfare standards 58–59, 61 ANZ Bank 133 Arab Bank Australia 133 Arab students in Australia 64, 85 Arabian horses 100–102 Arabic language 36 financial and trading terms 120 Asia Pacific International College 73 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) 20 Associate degrees 63, 84 AusAID 21, 64, 85 Austrade 6, 111, 118 Australia air services to 135 business dress 135 business etiquette 136 civil aviation growth 88 commercial environment 127 company income tax 132 construction projects 86–87 cuisine 42 desert landscape 31 early historical Muslim contact 39 ease of doing business 128 economic reforms 40–41 economy 128–129 energy and water conservation development 91 financial sector 132–133 flora and fauna 37–78 football codes 20 foreign banks 133 foreign company registrations 134
148 |
foreign investments in 131–132 geography 37 heavy rail haulage 88 historical cultural context 29 horse breeding programs 101 indigenous culture 39 indigenous population 41 industrialisation 96–97 industry and business associations 133 investments in Saudi Arabia 17 Islamic schools 38 legal systems 130–131 major banks 133 major equine events 102 major export markets 14–15, 123, 128–129 major holiday periods 135 manufacturing sector 98–99 Medicare 94–95 merchandise exports 49 migrant intake post-World War II 41 mobile telecommunications providers 134 Muslim population in 19, 38–39 national broadband network (NBN) 134 popular styles of dress 41 population 38 preventative healthcare 95 private health insurance 95 privatisation of power industry 89 public healthcare 92, 93, 137 regulatory environment 129–130 road networks 88 Saudi Arabian embassy 18 seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) technology 90, 91 time zones 136–137 translation services 136 Australia Awards 64, 85 Australia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) 133 Australia Gulf Council 43, 56, 141 trade missions 24, 56 Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) 21, 64, 85 Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) 40 Australian Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (AACCI) 43, 111, 114, 116, 133 Australian Business Limited 133 Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) 130 Australian corporate investment opportunities 124–125 Australian Industrial Systems Institute (AISI) 70–71, 140 Australian Industry Group 133 Australian National University Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies 43
Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation 76 Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) 130 Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) 62, 84 Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) 60, 97 Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) 129–130 Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) 72, 135 Australian Synchroton 74 Australian World Trading (AWT) 27, 141
B Bachelor degrees 63, 84 Bariq Mining 17 barley as export 50 Bemax Resources Limited 17 BHP Billiton 76 Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School 73 Business Council of Australia 133 business processes in Saudi Arabia 22–23
C CAAR 43 camel racing 20–21 camels in Australian deserts 31 case law 130 See common law Charles Sturt University 73 ChemCentre 76 Citadel Resource Group 17, 122 Clarendon Business College 72 Coffey International Development 22–23, 47 Coffey International Limited 142 specialist services 46–47 common law 130 commonalities between Saudi Arabia and Australia 13–14, 16, 91 Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) 133 Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act 130–131 company income tax 132 construction and engineering projects 86–91 Corporations Act 130, 134 Corporations Act 2001 130 Costello, Peter (Hon) 56 Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR) 43 CQUniversity Australia 82, 141 Curtin English Language Centre (CELC) 77 Curtin Muslim Students Association 76 Curtin University 73, 76–77, 142 Gulf countries partnerships 76
D Dammam University 68, 74 Deakin University 74
Department of Agriculture and Food (WA) 25 Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry 117, 137 Department of Cultural Affairs (Saudi Arabia) 43 Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) 64,85 dry-land farming 16
E Ease of Doing Business surveys 107, 124, 128 education programs 62–85 Educational Testing Service 143 Emerson, Craig, Dr 7 Endeavour Awards 64, 85 English language programs 77 Equestrian Club of Riyadh 102 equine trade 100–102 Equinox Minerals Limited 142 Etihad 56
F face-to-face contact 111 Fahad International Specialist Training 46, 47 Fahour, Ahmed 10 family companies in Middle East 114–115 federal government Islamic studies funding 65 scholarship programs 64, 85 FIST (Fahad International Specialist Training) 46, 47 food security 24, 26, 52, 123 long term 49 Football Federation of Australia (FFA) 20 Foreign Exchange Program 8 Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) 131 full-fee international students 42
G G20 membership 18 General Motors Holden (GMH) 15, 123 General Trading Company (GTC) 17 General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries(GUCCIAA) 43 Ghazal 1 car 98 Glencore 26 global financial crisis and responses 13, 41 Gold Coast University Hospital 75 Good Universities Guide ratings 78, 79, 82 Goods and Services Tax (GST) 132 Government of Western Australia 25, 76 Graduate certificates 63, 84 Graduate diplomas 63, 84 Grain Project model 26 Grains Silos and Flour Mills Organisation (GSFMO) 50
INDEX | 149
Index greenfield projects 98, 104 grey water technologies 91 Griffith Islamic Research Unit (GIRU) 42 Griffith University 65, 73, 143 Islamic Research Unit 42 undergraduate and postgraduate programs 75 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) 75 GUCCIAA 43 Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) 18 Gulf countries’ taxi industry 15
H halal products 32–33 certification 51, 60, 116 freight 116–117, 137 meat production 50–51, 58 haram products 33 Harcourt, Tim 122–123 Hassana Investment Company 17 Hawke, Robert J., (Hon) 24, 56 healthcare and medical services market 92–95 Heraghty, Craig 52–55 holding companies 17 horse breeding programs 100–102 humanitarian assistance programs 21
I IBM 78 Id al-Adha 32, 110 Id al-Fitr 32, 110 Ingleson, John, Professor 83 International Centre for Muslim and non-Muslim Understanding 24, 43 International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) 88 International Finance Corporation (IFC) 107 International Students Strategy for Australia 63, 84 irrigation leases 54–55 Islam 19, 31–33, 108 Islamic banking 115, 125 Islamic law See Shari'ah law Islamic studies in tertiary institutions 42–43
J JB Hunter Technology 73 joint-venture companies 58–59
K Kavanagh, Mike 122–123 Kazal, Karl 27 Kazal, Tony 27 King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) 98
150 |
King Abdulaziz Medical City 93 King Abdulaziz University 68, 74 King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) 98 King Abdullah Scholarship Program 6, 16–17 King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) 27, 63, 85 research partnerships 16 King Fahad MIlitary Hospital 93 King Fahd Causeway 86, 88 King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre 93 King Faisal University 68, 74 King Saud University 68, 74 concept car development 98 Kingdom Holding Company 17, 135 Kingdom of Saudia Arabia accession to WTO 44–45, 107 agents and distribution contracts 117 agent background checks 118 Australian embassy 18 bilateral development assistance funding 21 business opportunities planning 110–112 business plan essentials 109–110 business strategies 109 business visa applications 111 Chambers of Commerce 114 civil aviation growth 88 creation of 34 cuisine 36 desalination plants 89–90 desert landscape 30–31 direct exports to Australia 15 distribution channels 120 diversification of industries 96, 97 ease of doing business ratings 107, 124 economic and legal reforms 44–45 electricity generation and demand 90–91 establishing business presence in 117 export documentation 115–116 family companies 114–115 food processing industry 51, 125 geography 30 getting around in 111–112 health and medical services 93–94 higher education reform 68 historical cultural context 29 history of 33–35 holy cities 32 import tariffs 115 independent water and power projects (IWPPs) 88–89 industrial logistics investment 125 infrastructure projects 122
investment diversification programs 17–18 investments in Australia 17 labelling standards 116 legal systems 114 major distribution and sales regions 119 major investment sectors 124–125 major religious festivities 110 meetings etiquette 112–113 mining code 124–125 national healthcare administration 92–93 national healthcare expenditure 94 negotiation styles 113–114 population 35 potential growth areas 104–105 price factors 114 private medical insurance 94 rail infrastructure 88, 122 real estate sector 87 regional growth markets 105 religious festive periods 32 road networks 88 shortage of health professionals 95 significant engineering and infrastructure projects 86 tendering process 114 traditional dress 35–36 translation services 114 understanding cultural context 108–109 youth population 35, 51 Koran See Qu'ran
Meat and Livestock Australia 60–61, 144 Medicare system 94–95 Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research 81 Memorandum of Higher Education Cooperation 7, 16, 84–85 Ministry of Health (MOH) 92–93 Monash University 66–69, 144 domestic campuses 68–69 international campuses 66, 69 pathway programs 66 Saudi higher education partners 68, 74 Saudi students support 68
N National Australia Bank (NAB) 133 National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies 42, 65, 144 National English Language 77 Teaching Accreditation Scheme (NEAS) 77 National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) 61 National Water Company (NWC) 89 Nazer, Hassan, (H.E.) 8, 10 News Corporation investors 17, 135 nib 145 North South Rail Project 88, 122
O Olayan Group 17 Omar Al-Mukhtar University 76 Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) 19
L
P
Laing O'Rourke 88, 122 land ownership laws 54 Le Cordon Bleu 73 Leighton Holdings 90 live sheep export 15, 50–51 diversification 60–61 humane 58–59 livestock joint-ventures 58–59 Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) 61
Parkinson, Duncan 104–105 passenger cars export market 14–15, 98–99, 123 pathway programs 66, 82 petrochemical market 15–16 Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) 95 PhD programs 81, 82 Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd University 76 privatisation of state-owned enterprises 45 Property Identification Code (PIC) 61 Prophet Muhammad 31, 33 Public Investment Funds (PIF) 17 PwC Australia 57, 145 PwC Saudi Arabia 57
M Ma'aden 98, 121 Macarthur, John 39 Macquarie Bank 133 Macquarie University 73 Madinah 32 Magee, Kevin 9, 10 Makkah 32 manufacturing and motoring markets 96–99 master agents 119 Master degrees 84
Q QS World University Rankings 66, 67, 80 Qu'ran 32, 34, 114
R Rabeeah, Abdullah Al, Dr 92 red meat exports 60–61
INDEX | 151
Index religious pilgrimages 19 Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia 17, 43
S Saeed, Abdullah, Dr 65 Saud, Muhammad ibn 34 Saud royalty, See Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, King; Alwaleed Bin Talal Abdulaziz Alsaud, Prince Saudi Arabia, See Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) 17, 43 Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority 124 Saudi Arabian Government Investment Authority (SAGIA) 58 Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) 17, 94 Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) 116 Saudi Aramco 74, 76, 121 Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) 15, 97–98 Saudi Binladin Group 91, 105 Saudi Development Fund (SDF) 21 Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) 90 Saudi Ministry of Higher Education 17, 43 Saudi Oger Limited 90, 105 Saudi students in Australia 16–17 seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) technology 90, 91 Shari'ah law 35, 114, 115, 116, 125 Shi'a Islam 32 Simpson, Glen, Dr 22–23 Sindi, Mohammad Abdul Wahed 58 Smith, Stephen (MP.) 17 Soccer Australia 20 sovereign wealth funds (SWF) 17 Specialist Training Australia (STA) 47 specialist workforce providers 46–47 sporting links between Australia and Saudi Arabia 20, 102 state governments and foreign investment 132 state governments health directives 93 Study Melbourne 74, 143 Sunni Islam 32 SunRice of Australia 17
T Taif University 68, 74 Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) 62, 84 Toyota Motor Corporation Australia (TCMA) 14–15, 123 trade documentation 115–116 training packages 64, 85 translators 114, 136 Tsiolas, Roula 70 Tsiolas, Stelios 70
U University of Bahrain 76 University of Ballarat 73, 78, 145
152 |
University of Canberra 79, 146 University of Melbourne 42–43, 65, 80–81, 144, 146 Centre for the Study of Contemporary Islam 80 University of New South Wales 73 University of South Australia International Centre for Muslim and non-Muslim Understanding 24, 43 University of Sydney 73 Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies 43 University of Technology Sydney 73 University of Western Australia Centre for Muslim States and Societies 43 University of Western Sydney 42–43, 65, 83, 146 University of Wollongong 16 University of Wollongong Dubai 56
V Victorian government 74, 143 vocational education and training (VET) systems 64, 74, 85
W Wahhab, Muhammad ibn Abd-al 32, 34 Walton, Alastair 56 Water and Electricity Company (WEC) 89 water and power projects Australian involvement 123 private sector development 89, 90 water entitlements 54–55 Wellard Group 58 Wellard Saudi Trading Co. Ltd 58–59, 147 Western Australia Trade Office (WATO) Middle East 147 Western Australian major export markets 25, 50 Western Australian government 25, 76 Westpac Bank 133 women interest in higher education 24 Saudi business context 23, 108 traditional dress 36 Woods Bagot 104–105 World Bank 107, 124, 128 World Trade Organization (WTO) 44, 107 Worley Parsons 90, 121, 122, 147
Y Yabsley, Michael (Hon) 56
INDEX | 153
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