AUSTCHAM NEWS - TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE SERIES LAUNCH WITH CLP
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN HONG KONG Where Business, People and Ideas Connect
AUSTCHAM NEWS Issue 213 | Feb 2020
TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
SERIES LAUNCH WITH CLP
Thinking About Buying, Selling,
or Relocating to Australia?
Think about
Black Diamondz Property Concierge,
the award winning agency.
Scan the QR Code or
call +61 2 8280 8280
blackdiamondz.com.au
2 • February 2020
Chairman's Column
A ustralia has welcomed a new decade amid one of its
worst ever bushfires in history. AUSTCHAM NEWS - ISSUE 213
Australian expatriates, whether home for the Christmas
Managing through the Novel 5
break, or watching from afar, were in disbelief as the
Coronavirus
devastating flames raged across our country. On behalf
of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong,
Australia’s Consul-General, Michaela 6
I send my deepest condolences to those who have been
Browning farewells AustCham Hong Kong
impacted by the destruction.
In response to this catastrophic event, AustCham Hong Kong, together with the Towards a Sustainable Future 10
Australian community across the territory launched an appeal to support the
bushfire efforts, with funds going to the Australian Red Cross. The community Introducing Shannon Powell - 17
response has been extraordinary, and I sincerely thank everyone who has donated Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner
to the fund.
New Heights for Australia and 18
On 17 January we welcomed the commencement of the Australia-Hong Kong Hong Kong - Edward Yau
Free Trade Agreement (A-HKFTA). The FTA marks an important milestone in the
bilateral trade and investment relations between Australia and Hong Kong. The 25 Years of History in The Making 20
FTA, which focuses on driving innovation, technology, intellectual property, and
the collaboration of infrastructure, will also help stimulate the development of the Keys to Success in the Greater Bay Area 22
Greater Bay Area, an economy that boasts a combined GDP of USD1.56 trillion,
and is expected to grow faster than the whole of China over the next decade. The Power of a Multigenerational 24
Workforce
I would also like to take this opportunity to bid farewell to Michaela Browning,
Australia’s Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau. You can read more about Building Asia Capability 27
her departure in this issue. We are all very grateful for her extraordinary efforts
and commitment to serving the Australian business community in Hong Kong. Mentor Program 28
Since her appointment in 2017, Michaela has worked tirelessly towards building
closer and deeper ties between Australia and Hong Kong. I am looking forward Financial support for SMEs 28
to welcoming her successor in the next edition.
Emerging Leaders Unite in Guangzhou 29
Finally, as I write, the impact of the novel coronavirus is being felt right across the
community. We encourage you to follow the advice of our corporate member The Fullerton Hotel Sydney Debuts 30
Gleneagles Hospital (see page 5) and we all look forward to this highly challenging at No.1 Martin Place
situation turning a corner as soon as possible.
New Tax Changers affecting your 31
On behalf of AustCham, I would like to extend my best wishes to you, our members
Australian Home
and your families for the new Lunar Year.
Yours sincerely, New Members 32
Andrew Macintosh Mates Rates: Special Offers for Members 32
chairman@austcham.com.hk
The Season for Giving 34
Hong Kong Community for 36
Aussie Bushfire Relief
READ AUSTCHAM
NEWS ONLINE:
austcham news
Please email story ideas, corporate news or thought Online version
leadership to the editor: isabella.chan@austcham.com.hk
ISSUE 213 • 3
Chamber Chatter
What’s Trending Published By:
The Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
What a start to the year – both 2020 and the Year of the Rat. Room 301-302, 3/F, Lucky Building
Just as Hong Kong started to feel like the city was emerging 39 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
out of the challenges of seven months of protests, we’ve T: +852 2522 5054
been confronted with the novel coronavirus. The body E: austcham@austcham.com.hk
blow to an already bruised Hong Kong is the last thing the Editorial Committee:
business community needs as we were struggling with a Isabella Chan
decline into recession. For our members in the tourism, Tracy Hansen
retail and hospitality sector this has been devastating. Jacinta Reddan
And with each day that goes by and the number of events
cancelled increases (as I write news of the cancellation of Advertising:
Art Basel has become public), the blow to the economy Email: advertising@austcham.com.hk
becomes deeper – and the impact on the tourism sector becomes ever more painful.
The impact of the coronavirus knows no sector boundaries of course and Where Business, People and Ideas Connect
“work from home” has become commonplace across Hong Kong’s business The Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong
community; with corporate Hong Kong responding very quickly to the challenge Kong is Australia's largest international chamber
in the wake of the experience of SARS, the response has been swift, decisive and with about 1,400 members representing about
comprehensive. This stands Hong Kong in good stead to minimise the spread of
the virus and we encourage you to practice good personal and environmental 500 Australian and Hong Kong based companies.
hygiene – combined with a very strong dose of common-sense. It's the largest Australian business grouping
outside the country and the second largest
Of course, AustCham has not been spared the impact and we were very of 28 International Chambers of Commerce
disappointed to have had to postpone our sold-out Australia Day lunch featuring
multi-award winning journalist Kerry O’Brien. We are very grateful to Kerry for in Hong Kong. The AustCham mission is:
so quickly agreeing to a later date and you will be hearing more about this. We To promote & represent business & values while
will be running core events via webinar aiming to provide members with the most enabling members to connect, engage & grow bilateral
critical and relevant information at this time. I encourage you to join our webinar relationships.
on how changes introduced by the Federal Government to the Main Residence
Exemption for non-resident Australia could affect you with a looming end of financial Disclaimer:
year deadline. And we are also pleased to be partnering with Mayer Brown and The views expressed in this publication are not
International SOS to offer advice on how to manage through the coronavirus, necessarily those of the Australian Chamber of
providing highly sought after information. Commerce in Hong Kong, its members or officers.
The Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong
With schools closed, and children and parents confined to home, social interaction
Kong takes no responsibility for the contents of any
is at a minimum. We encourage you to be aware of the importance of looking after
article or advertisement, makes no representation
your mental health – go for long walks in the fresh air, dust off the board games,
as to its accuracy or completeness, and expressly
be kind to one another and don’t forget the power of a good laugh.
disclaims any liability for any loss however arising
On a far more positive note, the response of the Hong Kong community to from or in reliance upon the whole or any part of this
the devastating bushfires in Australia has been overwhelming with more than publication.
AUD120,000 raised – donations coming from individuals, large corporates, schools
and dedicated fundraisers (see back page for more). We must not lose sight of
the fact that in difficult times, the power of coming together as a community has
never been more compelling.
With that, stay well and look after one another. Copyright © 2020
Jacinta Reddan, The Australian Chamber
Chief Executive, AustCham of Commerce in Hong Kong Printed on environmentally-friendly paper
AUSTCHAM PLATINUM PATRONS
4 • February 2020
Managing through the Novel Coronavirus
With the World Health Organisation declaring
the coronavir us a global eme rgenc y, we
encourage you, your staff, families and friends to
take appropriate measures to stay healthy and
practise good personal hygiene.
We recommend you keep up to date with Hong
Kong Government anouncments (by scanning
the QR code) and follow the below advice
from AustCham HK Corporate
member, Gleneagles Hospital. We
are sharing regular updates with
our members.
How to Stay Healthy:
Protecting yourself from severe respiratory disease associated with the novel coronavirus
M
aintaining good personal and environmental hygiene • If you develop respiratory symptoms or a fever, put on a
is of utmost importance to protect ourselves from surgical mask and seek medical advice as soon as possible.
pneumonia and respiratory tract infection. Below
are some recommendations to note: Precautions to take when travelling outside Hong Kong
• Hand hygiene is one of the most important measures • Do not travel to countries or areas where community
of reducing spread of diseases. Always perform hand transmission of novel coronavirus is occurring. Perform
hygiene, especially before touching the mouth, nose or personal and hand hygiene at all times.
eyes; after touching public installations; or when hands • Avoid close contact with persons with fever or respiratory
are contaminated by respiratory secretions. symptoms in countries or areas with possible community
• Wash hands with liquid soap and water, and rub for at transmission of novel coronavirus infection.
least 20 seconds. Rinse with water and dry them with a • Do not visit wet markets, live poultry markets or farms.
disposable paper towel. • Refrain from touching animals, poultry, birds or their
• If hand washing facilities are not available, rub hands with droppings.
70 to 80% alcohol-based handrub. Use sufficient amount • Do not consume game meat and do not patronise food
of handrub to rub our palms, back of hands, finger webs, premises where game meat is served.
back of fingers, thumbs, finger tips, and then wrists. Rub • Avoiding consuming raw or undercooked animal products
for at least 20 seconds until your hands are dry. Let the which may be contaminated by animal secretions or
alcohol dry on your hands, do not wipe it off with paper excretions.
towel. It is wise to check the expiry date of the handrub • If you develop respiratory symptoms or a fever, wear a
before using it. surgical mask and seek medical advice at once as soon as
• It is important to wear a mask properly before wearing possible.
and after removing a mask. Wear a surgical mask when • Upon returning to Hong Kong, consult a doctor promptly
taking public transport or staying in crowded places. and inform the doctor of your recent travel history and
• Cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper when other relevant details to facilitate effective diagnosis and
sneezing or coughing and dispose of soiled tissues into a treatment.
lidded rubbish bin, then wash hands thoroughly.
• Refrain from visiting hospitals. If you must visit a hospital,
put on a surgical mask. Observe strict personal and hand
hygiene before and after visiting the hospital.
• Maintain drainage pipes properly and pour about half a Also st ay up to date with Australian
litre of water into drain outlets regularly. Government announcements with the Smart
• As far as possible, avoid crowded places and minimise Traveller app:
social contact.
ISSUE 213 • 5
Australia’s Consul-General,
Michaela Browning farewells
AustCham Hong Kong
As 2019 drew to a close, AustCham farewelled one of its staunchest supporters Michaela Browning,
Australian Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau, whose tenure spanned a momentous period in
the city’s history.
I
t was a full house as AustCham members and friends
formally acknowledged the extraordinary support of
Australian Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau,
Michaela Browning. Jacinta Reddan, AustCham Chief
Executive, described Michaela’s tenure in Hong Kong as
outstanding, in terms of achievements and her support for
the Chamber’s activities.
As Jacinta pointed out, the Consul-General’s role
dramatically altered over the three year timeframe,
becoming remarkably different from when she began
official duties in April 2017. At that time, Hong Kong’s
Chief Executive was CY Leung, and regional instability
created by the US-China trade war was not even on the
horizon. Michaela’s initial focus was Australia’s interests in
digital transformation, trade, healthcare, cyber security, and
opportunities arising from the Belt and Road and Greater
Bay Area initiatives.
Since then, much has changed. AustCham members and
their businesses have experienced months of instability
and uncertainty, and millions of Hongkongers have taken to
We know Hong Kong is not just
city streets in pro-democracy protests. All of this, against
a function of what China says it a backdrop where Australia’s leaders are reassessing our
is, it is also a function of what the nation’s decades-long relationship, both politically and
international community and attitudinally, with our major trading partner – China.
business says it is
Opportunities and challenges
- Michaela Browning
One of Michaela’s key commitments before her tenure
ended was to drive the Australia – Hong Kong Free
Trade Agreement (A-HKFTA) over the finish line. As an
experienced trade negotiator, she oversaw the official signing
of the A-HKFTA last March – a milestone not achieved by
any of her predecessors.
6 • February 2020
The A-HKFTA agreement carries many benefits to Australian Keeping Australia’s government, business and investment
businesses and investors, providing certainty and confidence. interests informed about the real issues affecting Hong
Key points include: Kong, and cutting through the public perceptions created by
• Zero tariffs on goods media, became a key driver in Michaela’s final year in office.
• Market access guaranteed for service suppliers In spite of the serious challenges faced by the city, she has
• Better two-way investment endeavoured to relay a clear picture of the situation back
• Greater regulator y cer taint y for e- commerce, home to key stakeholders – in an effort to better inform
specifically for data flows and storage, financial services, their attitudes and decision-making processes.
telecommunications and IP
“There is bifurcation in Hong Kong’s economy – the financial
The new agreement means Australia now has goods and centre is still robust, and institutional money is not leaving.
services agreements in place for seven of its top eight Some of the advantages of Hong Kong in terms of soft and
export markets, covering roughly 70 per cent of the nation’s hard infrastructure are not easily replaced, and there is a lot
trade. The importance of having such country to country to be quite confident about. Obviously, this is different from
agreements cannot be underestimated, at a time when the the retail and consumer sectors which are really suffering.”
World Trade Organisation (WTO) rulings, on which many
FTA’s are based, are seen to be losing their enforcement Events over the past months have led the international
powers (i.e. both the US and China have moved outside community to question the vitality of the one country, two
WTO rules in their trade dispute). (See page 18 for more on system of governance. “The one country, two systems has
the FTA which came into effect last month.) been shaken and I don’t think it’s controversial to say that.
When I came here (to Hong Kong), I would have said I
Going Forward was 100 per cent certain that this system was an enduring
Despite ongoing political and economic turbulence, Michaela advantage, now I think its 75 per cent, depending on whether
remains optimistic that the city will remain central to your business is retail or financial.” This changing international
Australian and international interests in the region. “We perception has in turn led to international pressure, namely
know Hong Kong is not just a function of what China says it by the US with its 2019 Hong Kong Human Rights and
is, it is also a function of what the international community Democracy Act,and has been raised in both the UK and
and business says it is, and confidence is significant. It does Australian parliaments. But Michaela said Hong Kong still
matter, and it can significantly influence what happens to this retains key advantages including an independent judiciary.
place,” she said.
ISSUE 213 • 7
Although Australia has one of the closest relationships with China in the western world, and holds an extraordinary privileged position, as the number one destination for Chinese investment globally, our relationship is maturing. Due to differing governance and value systems, these changes are a challenge to institutional and policy arrangements in both Australia and China, at a time when the world is undergoing massive digital transformation. “Australia has had a real evolution about policy thinking over China in the past five years,” said Michaela, “and we are all learning to have a more mature and sophisticated relationship.” Learning to adjust to this ‘new normal’, she believes, had led to an evolution in policy in Australia. “China is a great power, it has now asserted itself, and it is saying what it thinks and demanding respect in all institutions and partnerships. I think we are settling into a new normal, and in a more sophisticated way, safeguarding our own sovereignty and identity – so that we can confidently engage and manage the risks,” Michaela said. Unprecedented change After reflecting on shifts in policies and attitudes over the past three years, Michaela congratulated AustCham’s board for their role in transforming the chamber’s activities during her posting. “AustCham has conducted itself extraordinarily well and stood up for Australian values, both diplomatically and ably. It has advocated strongly for its members and I can assure you that the Hong Kong authorities do pay regard, and listen, to its views,” she said. She said her decision to lead the Australian government’s diplomatic service in Hong Kong, and exit her Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) role in Sydney, was based on the same decisions as AustCham members – the rise of China and the region. “A lot of governments don’t really think first and foremost about commercial issues but you (AustCham members) know that so much about the Australia-China relationship is about our commercial relationship, and there is nowhere better to experience it, and the world shift to Asia than in Hong Kong,” Michaela said. A staunch supporter of AustCham’s Women in Business Network, Michaela Browning’s farewell was the final network event for 2019, for this innovative series sponsored by Ambition. 8 • February 2020
Hong Kong Highlights
• November 2017: Michaela Browning is the first Consul-General
to bring a sitting Australian Prime Minister (Malcolm Turnbull)
to visit the city, in AustCham’s 30-year history
• March 2019: Australia and Hong Kong sign a free trade agreement
(A-HKFTA) and associated investment agreement
Career Highlights
• 23-year career with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
• Trade negotiator in the World Trade Organisation
• Trade negotiator Australia – US FTA
• Trade negotiator, Australia – Singapore FTA
• Missions include Singapore and Thailand
• Senior government policy advisor – Asia, trade and international
security issues
• Assistant Director-General, AusAid
• Austrade-General Manager, Head of Investment
ISSUE 213 • 9
Cover story
I
n 2007, the same year that then-Australian PM Kevin
Towards a
Rudd commissioned Professor Ross Garnaut to produce
a report on climate change, the CLP Group became the
first Asia-headquartered power company to set targets
to reduce its carbon intensity. Back in Australia, Garnaut’s
Sustainable
ground-breaking report, released in 2008, recommended
medium to long-term policies and frameworks for the nation’s
progression towards a more sustainable future. Over the
following two decades, the Hong Kong energy sector has
Future made significant inroads; Australia, in comparison, seems to
have become incapable of moving forward. It is poignant that
the debilitating fires across the country may prove to be the
catalyst for Australia to agree to (and implement) a clear and
The Chief Executive Officer predictable sustainable energy policy.
of CLP Holdings Limited,
Richard Lancaster, headlined
the Chamber’s launch of our
highly anticipated CLP Towards
a Sustainable Future series,
addressing questions around
energy policy, and helping to
debunk myths and barriers
towards a de-carbonised
future. The five-part series,
sponsored by CLP, focuses on
the global impacts of climate
change, which is particularly
relevant to Australia right now,
where devastating bushfires and
massive flooding have caused
unprecedented destruction.
10 • February 2020The science is irrefutable science has proven is largely responsible for the one-degree rise
Leading scientists expect the most recent bushfires in in average temperatures we are now experiencing across the
Australia likely to unleash around 900 million tons of carbon globe. While one degree doesn’t seem like much, we are already
dioxide into the atmosphere, equivalent to nearly double the experiencing catastrophic consequences to our environment.
country's total yearly fossil fuel emissions. Imagine what a global increase of 2-3 degrees would look like?
““If Australia continues to release greenhouse gases into the While Australia is naturally primed to burn, global warming has
atmosphere, we can view the current bushfire catastrophe as exacerbated the problem by creating hotter days, more powerful
just a harbinger of things to come,” Richard Lancaster warns. storms, less predictable rainfall and unprecedented drought
reducing our bushlands to kindling. As the Times reported:
Australia has one of the highest per capita emissions of carbon “It’s not really possible to say whether global warming ’caused’
dioxide in the world. In 2019, Energy Quarterly reported a given extreme weather event, since weather can have several
Australia uses coal power for 70% of its electricity. The causes. But the influence of climate change on extreme weather
burning of fossil fuels contributes to global warming, which in general, from fires to floods, is increasingly clear”.
ISSUE 213 • 11Why is Australia still on the fence?
We can’t turn back the clock, but if we don’t take immediate action on fossil
fuels, then we can expect temperatures to rise two degrees by 2050. More
optimistically, if we act now, we can potentially stabilise it to 1.5 degrees, which
might be a little more manageable.
As CLP’s Richard Lancaster observes, much of Asia is lagging in tackling climate
change, but he is optimistic that if more cohesive policy is in place, many countries
can potentially act faster compared to places like Australia and the US.
“Unfortunately, energy policy in Australia is unpredictable and lacks clarity.
Appetite tends to vary depending on which party is in government and even
which politician is leading that particular party at any one time”.
With no less than 60 industry regulators in Australia, Richard says that it is
“difficult, almost impossible” to reach a consensus around sustainable energy
policy. To overcome the gridlock, people and governments of different levels
need to address the MYTHS about the energy transition, including:
MYTH #1 business is not ready
Governments often use the excuse that “the economy will not survive, or business
is not ready” to fend off the transition to renewable energy. Richard suggests the
business community approach climate change as just another inevitable disruption
that they need to manage. When planning their approach, businesses need to
trust the experts, consider the commercial impacts, assess the long-term risks
and envisage what the future will be like in 50-100 years.
MYTH #2 transition will be too costly
With limited natural and land resources, high property prices and increasing
infrastructure costs, Hong Kong’s transition to sustainable energy could be very
costly. In fact, CLP’s tariff level in its Hong Kong service area is only around half
that of Sydney. With Australia’s abundance of land for solar and wind farms
and a population committed to contributing towards the energy transition -
ABC’s Australia Talks National Survey in 2019 revealed that on average, most
Australians are willing to chip in at least $200 a year to halt climate change - the
costs in Australia are expected to be manageable.
PROGRESS TOWARDS ENERGY POLICY
AUSTRALIA HONG KONG
Has limited space but sees opportunities, as well as
Has an abundance of space to house new power plants, plenty
challenges, of increasing zero-carbon energy through regional
of sunshine and wind to power sustainable energy farms
cooperation in the long term
Has 60 energy regulators Has just one energy regulator
Has a clear, industry-backed decarbonisation strategy and is
Lacks a clear, predictable energy policy
on track to meet its fuel mix target in 2020
Has limited the potential social and economic impacts of
Without a plan, Australia risks poor reliability, unnecessary
the transition on energy users with detailed planning and
costs and community disruption
carefully considered tariff adjustments
12 • February 2020“The key question is, when and how can we stop releasing damaging
pollutants into our atmosphere, while continuing to power our
economy and our lives?”
- Richard Lancaster
ISSUE 213 • 13Cover story 14 • February 2020
MYTH #3 community backlash
There is strong appetite for a sustainable energy policy in
Australia. Of more than 54,000 Australians who participated in
the ABC’s survey, most - 72 per cent - said climate change was
their leading concern.
Richard expresses confidence that Australia’s transition to
renewable power can be both economically and socially viable.
“The impact on people and the economy can be managed if the
transition is implemented in a well-planned and coordinated way”, he
says. If stakeholders are kept well informed about the when, where
and why of the necessary changes and seek tailored/appropriate
consulting, then any negative impacts could possibly be offset by
outlining the longer-term benefits to Australia’s future generations.
MYTH #4 countless job losses
To switch to sustainable power, including wind, solar and
potentially nuclear, one first need to create the necessary
infrastructure. This includes determining potential power sites,
setting up the transmission systems, building the wind and solar
farms, and connecting them with the grid. This is a massive
undertaking, creating many more new jobs in advance of any
impacts on the mines.
MYTH #5 unreliable energy
A seamless transition towards sustainable energy is possible with
meticulous planning and as technologies advance. The chance
of disruption could be minimised if there is a clearly defined
strategy, supported by well-coordinated implementation. Most
importantly, the transition strategy should include timely, concise
communications explaining to stakeholders when the plants
concerned are scheduled to be shut down, and when and where
more sustainable power sources will become available. Energy
providers should also develop back-up plans in the event of major
disruptions, such as unscheduled outages, accidents and other
“worst case” scenarios.
It’s time to say yes, we are ready!
Governments often use the excuse that “the economy will not
survive, or business is not ready” for the transition to renewable
energy, however Richard Lancaster urges that it is time for
individuals and business to say yes, we are ready. This important
and necessary undertaking may involve risks, but with careful
planning we will be in a better position to manage and adapt.
AustCham urges businesses, governments and industry to rise
to the challenge and agree on an actionable strategy and timeline
on carbon emission reduction for Australia with utmost urgency.
Don’t miss our next speaker in the CLP Towards a Sustainable
Future series. On 7th May we will hear from Dr Geraldine
Buckingham, Senior Managing Director, Chair and Head of Asia
Pacific at Black
Page 13 images from AustCham’s CLP Towards a Sustainable Future series launch event
Page 10, 12, 15 images courtesy of CLP
ISSUE 213 • 15We
specialise in
exceptional
We understand the Greater Melbourne area intimately. Its elite postcodes
are where we operate and succeed every day. We’re fiercely specialised
and recognised for our performance and understanding of
exceptional, high-end property.
Our comprehensive knowledge and our contemporary approach ensure
we deliver rewarding residential sales experiences to all our clients.
Whether a campaign that concludes with a public auction is preferred or
an entirely discreet ‘off market’ sale is desired, we respond and perform to
the highest standards of professionalism.
For personalised service, please contact Jock Langley
Mobile: + 61 419 530 008 | Email: jockl@abercrombys.com.au
www.abercrombys.com.au
Residential, New Projects, Coast & Country, Property Management, Advocacy
Proud members of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong KongIntroducing Shannon Powell
Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner
W
e welcome Shannon Powell to Hong Kong, who commenced as
Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner Hong Kong and Macau
in January. We look forward to our engagement with Shannon and
together strengthening the Australia-Hong Kong trade and investment relationship.
From 2015-2019, Shannon was the Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner
for Andean Latin America, leading a team of 20 staff across Chile, Argentina,
Colombia and Peru, based in Santiago. Her work focused on the promotion of
Australian trade and education exports and managing commercial relationships
and issues within a growing bilateral relationship.
Shannon started her career in law, working within large Australian law firms
before joining an Australian non-profit organisation, The Global Foundation
where she led domestic and global teams facilitating trade and investment and
policy development in the areas of mining, renewable energy, financial services,
education, agribusiness and manufacturing. Prior to joining Austrade, she was
Director of her own consultancy company, with clients across Australia, Brazil and
the United States specialising in governance, leadership, community engagement
and communications for large organisations. Shannon continues to sit on the
Advisory Board of The Global Foundation.
Shannon holds a Bachelor of Law (Hons.) and Bachelor of Commerce from Deakin
University and speaks Portuguese and Spanish.
AustCham Hong Kong welcomed Shannon on
her first day in Hong Kong as Senior Trade and
Investment Commissioner at the recent Towards
a Sustainable Future series launch. Shannon is
pictured (right) with CLP's Austin Bryan.
ISSUE 213 • 17(From left) the Australian Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau, Ms Michaela Browning; Mr Yau; chief negotiator of the FTA and Investment
Agreement negotiations of Australia, Ms Elizabeth Ward; the Australian Minster for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Mr Simon Birmingham; and
Director of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney, Mr Raymond Fan.
New Heights for Australia and Hong Kong
By Edward Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, HKSAR Government
I
t gives me great pleasure to author this article in the as an important trading partner especially in the Asia-Pacific
first edition of this year’s AustCham News, as January region. In 2017, Australia was Hong Kong’s 7th largest
2020 marks a special time for Hong Kong and Australia’s services trading partner, with total trade between the two
bilateral trade relationship: The Hong Kong-Australia Free sides amounting to HK$44 billion. Among the top three
Trade Agreement (FTA) and Investment Agreement (IA) services sectors, travel services is one of our main trading
came into effect on 17 January. areas. This is not only a testimony to our strong trade
relations, it also bears out the close people-to-people ties
I cannot emphasise enough my deep appreciation of between the two places, as Australia has always been one
the Australian Chamber’s sustained efforts in fostering of Hong Kong people’s favourite travel destinations. As for
exchanges and forging ties between the local and Australian merchandise trade, Australia was Hong Kong’s 20th largest
business communities by providing a great platform for all to partner in 2018, with nearly 40% of the trade contributed
get connected. I would continue to rely on this important by trades in agricultural and fishery products such as meat,
platform to inter-alia promote the tremendous business seafood, and dairy products, which are Hong Kong people’s
opportunities brought about by the coming into force of all-time favourites.
the Hong Kong-Australia FTA and IA.
Underpinning our close trading relations is the common
Indeed, Hong Kong and Australia have always enjoyed aspiration of Hong Kong and Australia in the pursuit of a
harmonious bilateral trade relations, and we value Australia free and open trade regime. We are strong advocates and
18 • February 2020staunch supporters of a rule-based and predictable trading in market access embodied in the FTA and IA. The FTA
system. To this end, both sides have joined hands to fortify further includes other commitments to facilitate trade in
our efforts in both regional and multilateral fora. With the services, such as tariff-free undertaking for all electronic
expeditious actions of the Australian Government in its transmissions. Likewise in the area of investment, investors
ratification work, for which we are very grateful, the Hong can benefit from the more favourable market access and
Kong-Australia FTA and IA have come into force. The two treatment of investments under the FTA, while enjoying
Agreements mark an important milestone in the ever- comprehensive protection of their investments provided
growing bilateral trade relations between the two sides. by the IA.
They are manifestation of our mutual commitments to
further promoting free and open trade against the prevailing We have been embarking on promotional events for the
uncertainties in the global economic environment and the Agreements to encourage traders and investors to make
headwind of rising protectionism. good use of the two new platforms to capitalise on the
untapped business opportunities and further expand their
Businesses and professionals of both sides stand to benefit businesses in the respective regions. I am confident that the
from the comprehensive coverage of the FTA and the high bilateral trade relations between Hong Kong and Australia
quality commitments therein. For example, exporters and will be brought to new heights.
manufacturers of originating products of Hong Kong or
Australia can now enjoy tariff-free treatment; and service I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a
providers in a wide spectrum of services sectors will enjoy prosperous and happy Year of the Rat.
better business opportunities brought by the legal certainty
ISSUE 213 • 1925 Years of History in The Making
- By the Australian International School Hong Kong
2020 marks the 25th Anniversary of Australian International School Hong Kong. AISHK is today
recognised as one of the leading international schools in Hong Kong and one of the most successful
Australian schools offshore. Founded with a vision, tireless work and support of so many, including
AustCham Hong Kong, we invite you to join us on a trip down memory lane – from the early days
of our school to where we are today.
1996
AISHK moves to Kowloon Tong,
previously the St. George’s school,
sharing the site with the Canadian
Overseas International School, from
1997 to 1998.
1997
Aus tr alian Inte r national S chool
Foundation Limited, the governing
body for AISHK, is granted a parcel of
land (around 6,000 square metres) for
a new campus in Kowloon Tong.
1999
During construction, AISHK makes its
Malcolm Turnbull at AISHK in 2017 final temporary move, to Tonkin Street,
Cheung Sha Wan. The School’s first
1994 group of Year 10 students are awarded
In mid-1994, the concept of an women, affectionately termed “The their NSW School Certificate.
Aus tr alian Inte r national S chool Magnificent Seven” guided this project
Hong Kong began to blossom. Brian to fruition. They were Brian Davies 2001
Davies, who would go on to become (previously of Chinese International The school’s new permanent home
Founding Principal, had a vision for School and Canadian International in Kowloon Tong opens its doors on
a “not-for-profit” school offering an School), Meena Blesing, Dr Jocelyn Chey 4 September, with over 500 students.
Australian education alternative to the (Australian Consul-General), Joseph This year, the School’s first Year 12 class
community. Like all good ideas, there Kwan (The Federation of Australian prepared to sit for the NSW Higher
were challenges. Questions needed Alumni Associations Hong Kong), School Certificate.
answering, not least surrounding where Tom Corkhill (Australian Association
funding, students, teachers, campus, of Hong Kong) and Terence Ma (The 2005
books and curriculum would come Australian Chinese Association of Hong A I S H K’s 10 th A nni ve r s a r y w a s
from to bring this dream to fruition. Kong). celebrated with the Welcome BBQ,
Brian and Meena Blesing (then based in made all the more memorable with
Sydney) presented their ideas to Philip 1995 a visit by none other than Mr Jackie
Day and Alfred Croucher (both then of The School is incorporated and Chan himself. AISHK was granted
the Australian Chamber of Commerce AISHK’s doors open for the first time authorisation to offer the International
in Hong Kong). to 25 students in Boundary Street, Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP)
Kowloon Tong. Later this year, AISHK in September, with the first group of
Led by then Chair of AustCham, Philip moves to the Gun Club School in Tsim graduate IBDP students completing
Day, a group of like-minded men and Sha Tsui. their studies at the end of 2007.
20 • February 20202017
On Sunday 12 November, then Prime
Minister of Australia, The Hon. Malcolm
Turnbull MP arrived to a lively and warm
welcome by some 900 community
members when he visited AISHK in an
event, co-hosted with the Australian
Consulate (pictured left).
Today
25 years later, in its home address
of 3A Norfolk Rd, Kowloon Tong,
AISHK continues to thrive, welcoming
1,10 0 s tudent s representing 25
different nationalities. AISHK is the
only school in Hong Kong to offer the
Australian Curriculum and International
Baccalaureate Diploma, providing
seamless pathways to universities in
Australia and around the globe.
ISSUE 213 • 21Greater Bay Area
Keys to success in
the Greater Bay Area
T
he Greater Bay Area (GBA) initiative Shenzhen will leverage on its status as a
is an ambitious scheme to link the nine special economic zone and innovation city to
cities in Guangdong’s Pearl River Delta, become a global innovation and creativity hub.
Hong Kong and Macau into an integrated
economy and world-class business hub. Macau will focus on tourism and leisure, as
Leveraging each city’s individual strengths, well as acting as a trade platform between
the project will oversee improved transport China and Lusophone countries.
infrastructure, the creation of an international
innovation and technology centre, and Guangzhou will build on its current function
the development of a globally competitive as a national core city, and act as an
modern industrial system, while promoting international commerce and industry centre
the free flow of people, goods, capital and and integrated transport hub in the GBA.
information within the region. In addition, an industrial belt for advanced
equipment manufacturing will be developed
The main focus of development between on the west bank of the Pearl River, centred
now and 2022 will be increasing cooperation around the cities of Zhuhai and Foshan. A
between the GBA cities through improving cluster of high-end manufacturing industries,
infrastructure and having each city adopt a such as electronic communications, will be
complementary role. To leverage the existing located on the east bank with Shenzhen and
strengths of the four core cities of Hong Kong, Dongguan at its core.
Macau, Shenzhen and Guangzhou, each city
has been assigned focus areas: Sector highlights
The greatest opportunities are likely in
Hong Kong will act as an international technology and innovation and financial
financial, transportation and trade centre, services, particularly sustainable finance. The
developing its role as an aviation hub, offshore GBA initiative also places a strong focus
renminbi centre and international asset trade & logistics and the environment,
management and risk management centre. It with a particular emphasis on ecological
will also be involved in the development of conservation and green and low-carbon
innovation and technology industries, and act development models.
as a centre for international legal and dispute
resolution services.
22 • February 2020Terence Chiu, Head of Commercial Banking, Hong Kong, HSBC,
notes there are opportunities for different businesses as the
region expands and disposable income grows. “The scale of
the Greater Bay Area initiatives, the increased connectivity
and the region’s growing population will create opportunities
for different sized companies across a range of sectors. The
clustering of talents, capital and industries will drive high value-
added productions and business developments.”
To attract talent from Hong Kong and overseas, there are
subsidies to offset higher individual income tax rates and customs
reforms as well as measures to facilitate Hong Kong residents’
purchase of property in the nine mainland cities.
Ayesha Lau, Managing Partner, Hong Kong, KPMG China, says: “To
fully capitalise on the opportunities the GBA offers, it is important
that businesses put in place the right strategy and adopt a GBA
mindset. This involves factoring in the increased connectivity and
flow of goods, services, talent and information, and embracing
the region holistically. It is tantamount to economic globalisation
at a local level,” she says.
With the economy expected to grow faster than the rest of
mainland China within the next three years, gaining access to
the GBA market of more than 71 million is a key motivation for
companies to invest in the region.
Pang-Chun Yu, Convenor of the GBA Working Group, HKGCC,
concludes: “Despite the keys to success in the Greater Bay Area,
regulatory differences that still exist, we urge companies not to
delay entering the GBA market. Instead, they should proactively
identify the key tax policies and incentives that impact their
industry, as well as look at the key development priorities of
each city within the GBA, so that they can select the one that
best fits their profile.”
Reproduced from KPMG, HSBC & HKGCC
Keys to success in the Greater Bay Area
ISSUE 213 • 23The Power of a Multigenerational
Workforce
- By Fyiona Yong, Director, Wholistic Coachsulting
E
mbarking on the digital generational workforce will be integral My preference is to harness the
transformation journey can be to business success. common traits rather than focus on
challenging. When you add the the generational differences. I believe
multigenerational aspects of your team While every individual is different, there are generational commonalities
into the mix, the transformation can generations have similar preferences and in relation to meaningful work:
seem even more daunting. characteristics because they share similar • We all want to feel empowered,
experiences during the same life stages. respected and trusted
With younger generations continuing • We all want to contribute to business
to enter the workforce and older ones Different generations often work and success
staying longer, the bridge between the use technology differently. But there • We all have similar values - we just
preferences and habits of your team will is no right or wrong way—only the define these differently
continue to expand. It’s unprecedented, method that works best for each
for the first time in modern history, our individual in the performance of his There are four key success factors for
workforce consists of four different or her job. Accepting the fact that driving a multigenerational team
generations working side by side - and there are differences, then educating
the differences among them are one of employees about those differences, and 1. A Culture of Inclusion
the greatest challenges managers need respecting, recognizing, and playing to Intentionally building a culture that
to face today. each generation’s strengths, validate each values and includes employees’
worker’s value and enhances the quality knowledge, strengths, and experience
We should recognise that belonging of work and collaborative team spirit. will help all employees feel happier at
to a specific generational cohort is not work and will help you move your
one-dimensional. What is defined as Comparing generations is an easy way company’s mission forward. This
“generation” can be influenced by the to create arguments and sometimes could mean making more conscious
individuals’ life phase, other life events unconscious biases get in the way of decisions to involve Baby Boomers
and experiences as well as tenure successful cross-generational collaboration. or Gen X-ers in projects that may
organisation. Creating an inclusive multi- But are we really all so different? typically be taken over by their more
outspoken Millennial counterparts.
Why not pair mature with young
generation colleagues on projects
where experience and skillsets
complement each other?
2. Acknowledging Differences
Managers need to openly address
differences and stereotypes to avoid
unconscious biases when it comes to
generations. It’s important to have a
platform for sharing and to understand
that there is more that connects us
even though we are from different
generations. Even if you belong to
the same generational cohort, you
are still a unique individual shaped by
24 • February 2020your upbringing, culture and current fear of negative consequences will be Legendary management consultant,
life phase. the key to continuously innovate and Peter Drucker, was absolutely spot on
stay relevant for the consumers of your when he coined the phrase: “Culture
3. Embracing Thoughtful Transparency products and services. eats Strategy for Breakfast.”
Millennials love transparency. In fact,
who doesn’t? Leaders have to be
more transparent, consistent and
regular with their communication
especially when it comes to business
decisions and changes that impact the
individuals’ role. Managing ambiguity
and uncertainty is a key leadership
attribute that will require focus.
4. Promoting peer-to-peer learning
In addition to traditional mentoring
programs that involve older, more
experienced employees passing
on insights to their juniors, peer-
Fyiona Yong as guest panellist at AustCham's recent event, Technology and the Future of Work
to-peer learning programs can
promote respect, understanding
and collaboration across teams
and generations. Perhaps “mutual
mentoring” should become the norm.
Great leaders recognise the value and
expertise a multigenerational workforce
brings, encouraging all employees to
respect other work styles and to actively
seek to learn from each other.
When leaders respect generational
differences and embrace diversity
and inclusion, they will surely see
improvements in productivity and job
satisfaction. Every employee brings
unique insights and knowledge to the
table. So it’s a win for everyone.
Digital Transformation might be the
reason for change in your organization
now, but most importantly it’s another
change and change management requires
a strong corporate culture and a growth
mindset, transparent and consistent
communication and leaders who are
willing to listen and incorporate their
team’s ideas and concerns.
Businesses will continue to evolve, so
creating a work environment where
people feel free to speak up without
ISSUE 213 • 25Building Asia Capability
The AustCham Intern Program is flagship program
of the Chamber. Aiming to build Asia capability
in our future industries, the Program connects
Australia’s brightest university students with
AustCham member companies through valuable
international internship experiences. AustCham
ensures a streamlined end-to-end service for both
students and host companies, providing exceptional
learning and development for the students, and
enhancement to existing recruitment for host
organisations. We put the spotlight on a recent
host and intern from the 2019 winter intake.
Matthew McKenzie, General Marketing Alice Kumar, Master of Business, International Business
Manager-Bright Food Asia Ltd.
I t was a pleasure hosting Alice Kumar
at Bright Foods Asia over November
and December. Whilst exposing Alice
M y internship was an enriching experience and I really valued gaining practical
insights into the Asian work environment. I am very grateful to have had
Matthew as my supervisor who was an exceptional guide. I have gained a lot of
to various areas of our business, it knowledge and practical tactics out of this internship experience, but of course, the
was just as valuable for me to listen to meeting with the Japanese client is the highlight. I was witness to a highly sophisticated
her perspective on how we approach business meeting and learnt a lot from it. Matthew was constantly involving me in
some of the day to day challenges in different ongoing projects and his efforts to make the internship an all-rounded
our business. I feel that not only did enriching experience for me were beyond amazing. He assured I received vast
we contribute to Alice’s learning, but exposure to the company and key markets.
we received a lot of insight in return,
which will be applied to our future AustCham has been a constant companion in the journey from Brisbane to Hong
operations. We look for ward to Kong - matching the perfect placement, taking care of visa applications, preparing for
hosting more Australian students in the interviews and introducing us to Hong Kong culture. AustCham’s in-country support
future and being an ongoing participant and services were remarkable and included two full days of orientation and a series
in the program in partnership with of events including government and company talks. Going global was one of the best
AustCham Hong Kong. decisions I have ever made and with the companionship of AustCham, I am proud
to have achieved an international internship through the Griffith University’s Global
Mobility Program.
Other highlights:
• The warm welcome by AustCham with airport pick-up, pre-loaded Octopus
card and mobile sim
• Delicious dim sum lunch and scavenger hunt across all of Hong Kong (complete
fun!)
• Sessions by Austrade, Trade and Investment Queensland and industry leaders
Visit our website for more information about the AustCham Hong Kong Intern Program or contact
julian.finlayson@austcham.com.hk
ISSUE 213 • 27Mentor Program
T
he AustCham UOW Mentor Program kicked off 2020 Sponsor:
with a session on EQ and working across cultures.
Facilitated by Deirdre Lander (Willis Towers Watson)
mentors and mentees took part in interactive activities designed
to bring about self-awareness. Mentors and mentees explored
their own personality traits and how they perform best in the
workplace, as well as how cultures can impact the way people
may think and interact in the workplace and society.
Financial support for SMEs
B
ank of China (Hong Kong) is offering a new flexible
lending scheme for SMEs. The SME Financing Guarantee
Scheme aims to help non-listed SMEs receive financing
to facilitate business growth and spur productivity and
competitiveness. Under the Scheme launched by the HKMC
Insurance Limited, eligible SMEs may receive a loan guarantee
of 50% to 90%. The Bank of China (Hong Kong) is committed
to further supporting successful applications by offering waived
handling charges and account opening fees, guaranteed fee
subsidisation, deferred principal repayment and more.
For more information visit:
28 • February 2020Emerging leaders unite in Guangzhou
- By Han Tang, Intern, AustCham Hong Kong
E
ach year the Australia-China Emerging Leaders Delegates and industry leaders discussed topics that
Summit (ACELS) unites a new generation of leaders, included; charting the future of the Australia-China
educating delegates on the contemporary Australia- relationship, disruptors in education, technology and
China landscape and fostering lasting connections. In its innovation, trade and investment in the GBA and the role of
tenth year running, ACELS, sponsored by the Department arts and culture. Panelists and speakers included experts and
of Foreign Affairs and Trade, was held for the first time leaders and represented private and public sectors across
in South China, in Guangzhou. The four day conference various industries. Key points were thoroughly discussed,
saw 90 delegates come together from Australia and China including cultural and educational differences between the
for discussions lead by several key note speakers including two regions, the development of the GBA’s prominence
Australian Deputy Consul-General to Guangzhou, Chris and the role media plays in shaping the relationship. During
Halford and Consul, Geoff Matthews. panel discussions, challenging questions were posed to the
experts, regarding the changing role government institutions
ACELS educate students on the contemporary Australia- have in country relations, changing perceptions about both
China landscape, and foster lasting people-to-people regions, and how Australia should engage with the GBA to
connections. The theme in focus was 2020 Vision: Ushering form a mutually beneficial relationship.
in a New Decade of Australia-China Relations. Guangzhou
was the ideal location for the conference, given its status Key takeaways from the conference ensured that even
as a tech hub, its proximity to Hong Kong and significance with the uncertainty of the future, the strength of
in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). the Australia-China relationship will be influenced by
individuals, organisations and government institutions.
Mutual understanding and respect for cultural similarities
Han (right) at ACELS
and differences will be vital for the relationship to flourish,
which can begin with a simple conversation and an open
mind. It is up to us as individuals and business leaders to
strengthen the relationship so both regions can prosper.
ACELS is a yearly conference run by the Australia-China
Youth Association (ACYA), an organisation aimed to
facilitate and develop bilateral relationships between
Australia and China.
Images courtesy of ACYA National
ISSUE 213 • 29The Fullerton Hotel Sydney Debuts
at No.1 Martin Place
a combined stonemasonry experience of 334 years, to carry
out a 38,000-hour laborious, chemical-free cleaning process
to restore the building’s façades to its former glory.
"We are committed to conserving the Sydney GPO building
for the enjoyment of generations to come; and the heritage
façade revitalisation programme is just the first step in a
multi-phase revitalisation programme. We encourage our
guests to embark on memorable journeys that are deeper,
more colourful and more rewarding when they stay in our
landmark luxury hotels that are destinations unto themselves,"
says Cavaliere Giovanni Viterale, General Manager of The
Fullerton Hotels and Resorts.
Opening special offer
S
ince the 19th century, Sydney’s General Post Office To celebrate the opening, guests booking a stay at The
(GPO) building has played a central role in the city’s Fullerton Hotel Sydney, a Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend
development. Today, the heritage-listed landmark, Collection partner, will enjoy special launch benefits including
completed in 1866, has become home to The Fullerton an AUD50 dining credit and triple points from the I Prefer
Hotel Sydney, seamlessly blending culture, timeless elegance Hotel Rewards programme. The offer is valid until 17 March
and contemporary hospitality at the heart of the vibrant 2020.
Australian city.
Debuted on 18 October last year, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
breathes new life into the much-loved landmark at No. 1
Martin Place. It is the latest addition to growing portfolio of
The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts under Sino Group. Find out more:
Dedicated to preserving the integrity of the heritage building
and its stories, The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts strives to
retain and restore the fine façades, sculptures and motifs.
It has engaged Stone Mason & Artist, an expert team with
Fundraising for Bushfire Relief
Earlier this month Castelo Concepts held a community
fundraiser at Wagyu Restaurant raising funds for the
AustCham HK Bushfire Appeal. The generosity and
strength of the Hong Kong and overseas Australian
community showed throughout the Sunday afternoon
event, with over HKD100,000 worth of lucky draw
prizes won, donated by various local and Australian
businesses. To read more about the AustCham HK
Bushfire Appeal and the extraordinary support from
the Hong Kong community to Australian bushfire
relief efforts, see page 36 (back cover).
30 • February 2020You can also read
