The event brought together representatives of the Queensland government, business leaders, sponsors and members of the Italian community for a discussion on the forecast of the state’s economy.
Guest of honour was Ros Bates, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, who addressed several key issues shaping Queensland’s future, including international trade agreements, investment, the construction sector, vocational training and preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
Opening the event, Chamber President Allan Pidgeon reaffirmed the role of ICCI QLD & NT as a bridge between Italian businesses and Australian institutions, highlighting the contribution of Italian and Italo-Australian companies to the state’s economic development.
In her address, Minister Bates spoke at length about the progress of free trade negotiations between Australia and Europe, noting that stronger ties with the European Union could create new opportunities for bilateral investment.
She also discussed the construction sector, which will play a central role in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, with major infrastructure projects planned across transport, urban renewal and sporting facilities.
Vocational education and skills development were also highlighted as essential to sustaining Queensland’s economic growth.
At the conclusion of her speech, Santo Santoro delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of those present.
In his remarks, Santoro described Bates as one of the most genuine figures in state parliament, noting that she entered politics after a successful business career.
He spoke of her commitment to public service, her dedication to family and institutions, and her focus on the wellbeing of Queenslanders.
Santoro also highlighted the achievements already recorded in her role as Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, praising both the results delivered and the strategic vision shown early in her term.
A particularly meaningful moment of the morning was the presentation of a lifetime membership to Tino Arquilla, a former committee member of the Chamber, in recognition of his long-standing commitment and significant contribution to the growth of ICCI QLD & NT.
The tribute was made all the more significant by Santoro’s remarks, in which he stressed that the success of an organisation such as the Chamber of Commerce depends not only on strategy or events, but above all on the people who dedicate their time and energy to the community.
Santoro noted that Arquilla had embodied this spirit of service, helping strengthen economic ties between Italy and Australia and leaving a lasting mark on the Chamber’s development. His words were met with warm and sustained applause.
Among the officials in attendance were MPs Christian Rowan and Grace Grace (Ignazia Graziella), as well as Luna Angelini Marinucci, Consul of Italy for Queensland and the Northern Territory, underlining the institutional importance of the event.
A question-and-answer session followed, allowing for direct discussion on investment, opportunities linked to the Olympic Games, infrastructure development and the outlook for trade agreements with Europe.
The event concluded with a networking session, offering participants an opportunity to strengthen professional ties and reinforce the role of the Italian business community in Queensland’s economic landscape.
