“The best is yet to come in the strong trade relationship between Sweden and Australia.”, a positive message by Johan Forssell, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade at an event in conjunction with the European Australian Business Council’s (EABC) Business Mission to Europe 2023 on 29-30 June in Stockholm.
The Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce was delighted by the invitation to take part in the Stockholm program and was represented by SACC Board Directors Camilla Bullock and Carl Wallberg.
The 2 days included meetings, company visits and talks by impressive Swedish industry leaders and business icons such as Jacob Wallenberg, Marcus Wallenberg, Helene Hedblom, CEO at Epiroc and Anders Carp, CEO at Saab, all sharing insight to the commitment to the Australia-Sweden growing business and expanding bilateral relationships.
European Australian Business Council Business Mission to Europe 2023 Stockholm
Summary Day 1 – 29 June
“There is potential for so much more,” echoed from all the prominent speakers during the first day of the Swedish leg of the EABC trade mission.
Ambassador Bernard Philip, Austrade Briefing by Trade and Investment, did a great job describing the building blocks on which the more than 190-year-old trade relationship is built. It’s a relationship between like-minded countries that believe in open trade and long-term relationships built on trust.
Johan Forssell, Minister for Trade and International Development, started off his speech with some well-prepared notes but soon put down the prompt and spoke freely about current situations in Sweden and Europe, including the challenge of the ongoing Russia Crisis and the cost of living crisis. Mr Forssell highlighted how the EU has come together like never before, and other trading partners with shared values are also working closer together to build a strong and prosperous power through trade.
There were three themes that recurred throughout the day:
- The importance of R&D – “It’s not about staying relevant; it’s about being on the forefront”. Australia can learn from Sweden, which ranks at the top of R&D spending as a percentage of GDP at 4.7%, with the majority of the spending coming from the private sector.
- Sustainability and Green Technology – It’s in Sweden’s culture to think about sustainability. However, to achieve our climate and environmental goals, we need to reduce our environmental and climate footprints from the materials we use in our day-to-day lives and in industry. The most inspiring speaker of the day was Sara Mazur, Executive Director of Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, who shared insights on how the foundation supports researchers with long-term (5+5 years) projects to invent for the future.
- Sweden’s unwavering commitment to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Australia was emphasized by several speakers, highlighting that momentum should not be lost when we are so close.
“If you are small, you have to be generous with your technology” was one of the comments from Anders Carp CEO of Saab talking about Saab’s substantial productions in Australia that can also be compared to Cochlear’s productions in Sweden.
Johan Forssell, without giving any more details shared that this month, the biggest contract in history in any sector was signed between Australia and Sweden making his parting words ring true:
“The best is yet to come in the strong trade relationship between Sweden and Australia.”
Summary Day 2 – 30 June
The second day of the conference began with a breakfast discussion on economic, trade, and industrial policies in Sweden. Dr. Anna Breman, First Deputy Governor of the Swedish Riksbank, provided insights into the Monetary Policy in June 2023. Key points highlighted during the discussion included a 0.25 percentage point increase in the policy rate to reach 3.75 percent, the forecast of further rate hikes, and the accelerated pace of government bond sales. The primary focus of Sweden’s monetary policy is to drive the Consumer Price Index with a Fixed Interest Rate (CPIF) back to 2% to reduce inflation and maintain price stability.
Dr. Breman emphasized the commitment of the Monetary Policy to take timely measures to curb inflation, considering the current state of the Swedish economy. The economy is experiencing a slowdown after the post-pandemic rebound, with weak domestic demand but strong export performance. The pace and intensity of future monetary policy tightening will be determined by future development and its impact on the economic outlook and inflation.
The morning session continued with a discussion of Swedish trade, with a particular focus on trade opportunities between Sweden and Australia. Henrik Isakson, Director for Trade Policy at the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, expressed optimism about the strong trade relationship between the two countries. The discussion then shifted to the new political framework and how Sweden can leverage it in the context of the green transition. Key elements included subordinating trade policy to the Green Deal and broader sustainability agenda, addressing deforestation and forced labor, and promoting a circular economy.
The conference attendees visited KTH Royal Institute of Technology, where discussions revolved around Sweden’s green transition. Northvolt, a prominent company, shared insights on the topic of batteries and electrification. Scania Group also provided their opinion on how they are adapting to battery driven technology. Later, LKAB, the leading mining and minerals group, presented their efforts to form a completely new industry from mine waste, focusing on phosphorus for mineral fertilizers, rare earth elements for electric vehicles and wind turbines, and gypsum for construction.
SSAB, a steel company, discussed their plans to produce fossil-free steel and the potential for collaboration with Australia. Their transformation plan aims to save 4 million tons of CO2 per year by 2030 through the development of a fossil-free iron and steel making value chain using a hydrogen-based direct reduction process.
In the afternoon, Saab highlighted the importance of the strategic alliance with Australia, the value of having a Saab office in Australia, and the benefits of joining NATO for both countries. The day concluded at Ericsson, where insights were provided on how Ericsson has contributed to shaping Australia’s future in 5G technology. The role of mobile networks in enabling the mining industry with autonomous vehicles and enhancing safety was also discussed.
In conclusion, the conference served as a powerful platform to underscore the paramount importance of the trade relationship between Sweden and Australia. By showcasing the immense potential for future growth and cooperation, the event solidified the foundation for long-term collaboration in trade, green transition, and defence. The conference effectively highlighted the indispensable role of these sectors in fostering a mutually beneficial partnership between the two countries, setting the stage for a prosperous and sustainable future.
A big thank you to the European Australian Business Council (EABC), partners and industry representatives involved in the business mission.
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 – Join us for a Sweden Support Performance in Darling Harbour 2 August!
Swedes in Sydney are gathering for a supportive Sing-Along performance in Darling Harbour on 2 August!
The Swedish School in Sydney together with the Swedish Community in Sydney is in search of shower chanters, nightingales, Eurovision fans, Abba-enthusiasts and/or soccer fans to participate.
The Swedish Consulate received a request to participate in the FIFA Fan Festival™ in Sydney and has reached out to the Swedish School in Sydney for help in organising an event. Of course, the Swedish School in Sydney, with the support of the Swedish community in Sydney and the Swedish schools in Australia, wants to support the world’s largest female sports event!
We have been asked to perform (10 minutes) with something cultural, and our plan is to organise a ‘Sing-along in Darling Harbour’. The Vikings were reported howling while singing, one could easily say that this is in our genes. Therefore, the school and all Swedish associations in Sydney are now searching far and wide for all shower chanters, nightingales, Eurovision fans and Abba-enthusiast to participate in the ‘Sing-along in Darling Harbour’. Practice “Dancing Queen” by ABBA to perfection. However, at the FIFA Fan Festival™, there will be big screens displaying the song lyrics, similar to a typical sing-along session at Skansen.
How much we will perform, is unclear. It depends a lot on how the Swedish team performs and how they progress. We have been asked to come and perform on August 2nd at 5:55 pm (assembly before 5 pm, when the game starts). If we behave ourselves and the Swedish national team performs well, we might be invited on August 6th and 20th, mark those dates in your calendar as well.
Please note: The Swedish School in Sydney has NOT been allocated any match tickets and participating parents are responsible for their child/children during the event.
When: 2 August at 5.55 pm (assembly at 5.00 pm before the game starts)
Where: Darling Harbour, more details to be advised
Register here!
Attire: Blue and Yellow and/or Eurovision Song Contest (Mello)
Thank you for supporting Sweden in the world’s largest female sports event!
The Swedish School in Sydney
Find out more about the world cup in Au and NZ here: Women’s World Cup (FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™)
EABC’s Business Mission to Europe 2023, 29-30 June in Stockholm, Sweden
The Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce was delighted by the invitation to take part in the Stockholm program and was represented by SACC Board Directors Camilla Bullock and Carl Wallberg.
The 2 days included meetings, company visits and talks by impressive Swedish industry leaders and business icons such as Jacob Wallenberg, Marcus Wallenberg, Helene Hedblom, CEO at Epiroc and Anders Carp, CEO at Saab, all sharing insight to the commitment to the Australia-Sweden growing business and expanding bilateral relationships.
European Australian Business Council Business Mission to Europe 2023 Stockholm
Summary Day 1 – 29 June
“There is potential for so much more,” echoed from all the prominent speakers during the first day of the Swedish leg of the EABC trade mission.
Ambassador Bernard Philip, Austrade Briefing by Trade and Investment, did a great job describing the building blocks on which the more than 190-year-old trade relationship is built. It’s a relationship between like-minded countries that believe in open trade and long-term relationships built on trust.
Johan Forssell, Minister for Trade and International Development, started off his speech with some well-prepared notes but soon put down the prompt and spoke freely about current situations in Sweden and Europe, including the challenge of the ongoing Russia Crisis and the cost of living crisis. Mr Forssell highlighted how the EU has come together like never before, and other trading partners with shared values are also working closer together to build a strong and prosperous power through trade.
There were three themes that recurred throughout the day:
“If you are small, you have to be generous with your technology” was one of the comments from Anders Carp CEO of Saab talking about Saab’s substantial productions in Australia that can also be compared to Cochlear’s productions in Sweden.
Johan Forssell, without giving any more details shared that this month, the biggest contract in history in any sector was signed between Australia and Sweden making his parting words ring true:
“The best is yet to come in the strong trade relationship between Sweden and Australia.”
Summary Day 2 – 30 June
The second day of the conference began with a breakfast discussion on economic, trade, and industrial policies in Sweden. Dr. Anna Breman, First Deputy Governor of the Swedish Riksbank, provided insights into the Monetary Policy in June 2023. Key points highlighted during the discussion included a 0.25 percentage point increase in the policy rate to reach 3.75 percent, the forecast of further rate hikes, and the accelerated pace of government bond sales. The primary focus of Sweden’s monetary policy is to drive the Consumer Price Index with a Fixed Interest Rate (CPIF) back to 2% to reduce inflation and maintain price stability.
Dr. Breman emphasized the commitment of the Monetary Policy to take timely measures to curb inflation, considering the current state of the Swedish economy. The economy is experiencing a slowdown after the post-pandemic rebound, with weak domestic demand but strong export performance. The pace and intensity of future monetary policy tightening will be determined by future development and its impact on the economic outlook and inflation.
The morning session continued with a discussion of Swedish trade, with a particular focus on trade opportunities between Sweden and Australia. Henrik Isakson, Director for Trade Policy at the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, expressed optimism about the strong trade relationship between the two countries. The discussion then shifted to the new political framework and how Sweden can leverage it in the context of the green transition. Key elements included subordinating trade policy to the Green Deal and broader sustainability agenda, addressing deforestation and forced labor, and promoting a circular economy.
The conference attendees visited KTH Royal Institute of Technology, where discussions revolved around Sweden’s green transition. Northvolt, a prominent company, shared insights on the topic of batteries and electrification. Scania Group also provided their opinion on how they are adapting to battery driven technology. Later, LKAB, the leading mining and minerals group, presented their efforts to form a completely new industry from mine waste, focusing on phosphorus for mineral fertilizers, rare earth elements for electric vehicles and wind turbines, and gypsum for construction.
SSAB, a steel company, discussed their plans to produce fossil-free steel and the potential for collaboration with Australia. Their transformation plan aims to save 4 million tons of CO2 per year by 2030 through the development of a fossil-free iron and steel making value chain using a hydrogen-based direct reduction process.
In the afternoon, Saab highlighted the importance of the strategic alliance with Australia, the value of having a Saab office in Australia, and the benefits of joining NATO for both countries. The day concluded at Ericsson, where insights were provided on how Ericsson has contributed to shaping Australia’s future in 5G technology. The role of mobile networks in enabling the mining industry with autonomous vehicles and enhancing safety was also discussed.
In conclusion, the conference served as a powerful platform to underscore the paramount importance of the trade relationship between Sweden and Australia. By showcasing the immense potential for future growth and cooperation, the event solidified the foundation for long-term collaboration in trade, green transition, and defence. The conference effectively highlighted the indispensable role of these sectors in fostering a mutually beneficial partnership between the two countries, setting the stage for a prosperous and sustainable future.
A big thank you to the European Australian Business Council (EABC), partners and industry representatives involved in the business mission.
Scandinavian Film Festival 2023 – Dates, venues, session times and tickets
The 2023 Saxo Scandinavian Film Festival, now in its ninth year, showcases the best contemporary cinema from the Nordic region, selected from international film festivals and markets such as Göteborg, Cannes and Berlin.
A specially curated programme will be screening at Palace Cinemas, Luna Palace Cinemas and Palace Nova Cinemas from July to August, encompassing films from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
Opening the Festival is the Australian Premiere of LET THE RIVER FLOW, based on true events and starring magnetic newcomer Ella Marie Hætta Isaksen. Festival Centrepiece GODLAND is award-winning Icelandic writer/director Hlynur Pálmason’s follow-up to his breakout hit A White, White Day, and Special Presentation Aki Kaurismäki’s tragicomedy FALLEN LEAVES comes direct from the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
Exploring culture, history and life in the Nordic region, a host of Australian premieres bring high calibre and award-winning Scandinavian films to Australian cinema screens this July.
FESTIVAL DATES:
MELBOURNE: 13 July – 2 August
SYDNEY: 18 July – 9 August
CANBERRA: 19 July – 9 August
ADELAIDE: 19 July – 9 August
BRISBANE: 19 July – 9 August
PERTH: 20 July – 9 August
BYRON BAY: 20 July – 9 August
www.scandinavianfilmfestival.com
Sessions and Tickets
Programme
Online event with IKEA, Woolworths and the University of Sydney Business School – Explore the evolution of refugee workforce pilot initiatives
Half of Australian businesses want to hire refugees, but most don’t. Yet the mutual benefits of employing refugees and asylum seekers is significant, and ultimately prove that doing good is good for business.
Join us in conversation with IKEA, Woolworths and the University of Sydney Business School for an online panel discussion to explore the evolution of refugee workforce pilot initiatives to become permanent pillars of recruitment in both companies.
Panelists will unpack the challenges, opportunities, experiences and outcomes of the programs and the business case for embedding secure employment for refugee and asylum seekers into their operations.
The panel includes;
Wednesday 21 June 2023
Free online event, 1pm – 2pm
Click here to register Humanitix
NEW PREMIUM MEMBER – CDJ Equipment
Contact details:
CJD Equipment Pty Ltd
54 Great Eastern Hwy
South Guildford WA 6055
Email: enquiries@cjd.com.au
Web:www.cjd.com.au
Special screening of “Climate Changers” at the Sydney Film Festival – Documentary directed by Johan Gabrielsson
Climate Changers
Planet Ark reporting from Stockholm – Insights from the World Circular Economy Forum 2023 – Online Event 7 June 2023
Summary and recording
The SACC Sustainability Committee was excited to present this online event with a live report from Stockholm by Dr Nicole Garofano, Head of Circular Economy Development at Planet Ark Environmental Foundation. Dr Garofano shared nsights from the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) and circular economy solution news from the Nordics.
Key learnings presented by Dr Garofano
See Nicole’s full presentation here
Watch the video recording of the online event here
About the Speaker
Dr. Nicole T Garofano
Head of Circular Economy Development for Planet Ark Environmental Foundation
Dr Nicole Garofano is the Head of Circular Economy Development for Planet Ark. In her role, Nicole is leading the ongoing strategic development of the Australian Circular Economy (ACE) Hub. For more than 15 years, Nicole has worked in environmental education and action with a focus on waste management and more recently, circular economy. She has designed and managed community-based initiatives to increase sorting, collection and processing of a range of packaging materials, including plastic. Nicole has a PhD from research focused on the plastic food and beverage packaging value chain, identifying both local and global innovation to improve chain activities and outcomes. She is an Associate of the Australian Institute of Packaging. LinkedIn: Dr Nicole T Garofano
Planet Ark Environmental Foundation is an Australian non-profit environmental organisation founded in 1992. Planet Ark partners with organisations in the public and private sectors to help find ways to reduce the impact on the planet. Planet Ark’s Australian Circular Economy Hub is the national platform for circular economy knowledge and collaboration to facilitate the transition to a circular economy in Australia.
This event was organised by the SACC Sustainability Committee
National Day celebrations 6 June at the Swedish Church in Melbourne – Celebrating Sweden 500 years
What’s in a number?
Well, plenty as Sweden celebrates 500 years on the 6th of June, making 2023 a jubilee year.
At the heart of it is Sweden’s transition into a national state as Gustav Vasa was elected King of Sweden on the 6 June 1523 in the small town of Strängnäs. Shortly after that Sweden left the so-called Kalmar Union with Denmark and Norway and became independent again.
On the 6th of June 2023, in Melbourne at Toorak House, on an unusually warm winter’s day (almost like a northern summer’s day in Sweden). Ambassador Pontus Melander invited the Swedish community, Swedish companies, Swedish Church and friends of Sweden in Melbourne to an evening to celebrate the Swedish National Day and Sweden 500 years.
Starting with formalities, as one should on a National Day, toasts for Sweden and Australia were followed by the Swedish National Anthem and the Australian National Anthem, both sung a capella by talented singer Suzann Frisk.
Ambassador Melander opened his speech with an acknowledgement of country by paying his respect to the traditional owners of the Kulin land and welcoming everyone to the celebrations. He also thanked Katja Lin and the Swedish Church for the opportunity to host the National Day in the beautiful Toorak House.
“Depending on one’s perspective, 500 years of human history can be a long period or a very short one. We are humbled by the fact that this continent has been continuously inhabited by Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander people for over 60 000 years” the Ambassador said, then continued: “Sweden has changed over 500 years and today we take pride that Sweden, just like Australia, is a modern society where people can pursue their dreams and exercise their freedom of expression, regardless of gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation.”
Sweden’s excellent political and diplomatic relations with Australian were confirmed with the recent visit in February from the Crown Princess of Sweden, HRH Crown Princess Victoria, HRH Prince Daniel and the Minister of Trade, Johan Forssell.
The visit highlighted our shared values and interest and showcased the strong relationship between Swedish companies and relevant Australian partners. Many Swedish companies are well established in Australia, creating jobs and furthering the economic development, innovation and sustainability focus and many of them located in Melbourne.
We were delighted to have company representatives from Ericsson, ABB, Scania, Tetra Pak, Axis, Astra Zeneca, IKEA, Sinch, SAAB, Polestar, Husqvarna, Alfa Laval and many entrepreneurs celebrating Sweden together with us.
The evening was truly a success with many from the Swedish community and organisations in Melbourne coming out for the National Day celebration, for the first time properly since the pandemic. It is safe to say that the quiz about Sweden was the most popular thing of the evening, with almost all guests testing their knowledge of Sweden. 15 happy winners were selected and were given a goody bag from the Ambassador with information books about Sweden and chocolate from Mörk Chocolate.
Look out for more celebrations later in the year as this year we also celebrate His Majesty the Kings’ golden jubilee. It marks the 50th anniversary of his accession to the throne, His Majesty is currently the third longest serving head of state in the world.
Thank you, Melbourne, we are happy you all joined us in celebrating Sweden 500!
Embassy of Sweden in Canberra
SACC Executive Forum followed by Networking Event with the Ambassador of Sweden to Australia, 31 May Sydney
Did you know that the Sydney Opera House tiles are from Höganäs
How the Sydney Opera House tiles stay white
The self-cleaning tiles never get a scrub down by anything but the elements. Danish architect Jorn Utzon planned it that way, the spherical shape of the shells allowing for good drainage so that cleaning would not be necessary. He worked on the tiles, made from clay with a small percentage of crushed stone, for three years with Swedish company Höganäs.
In the early 1960s, more than 1 million “Sydney Tiles” were shipped from Höganäs in Sweden. Some 940,840 cover the building now and the remainder are in an off-site storage facility.
Read more about How the Sydney Opera House tiles stay white in this article from The Sydney Morning Herald, 24 May 2023