The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government, led by Chief Minister Andrew Barr, has launched an ASEAN trade mission to Thailand and Singapore, with the Thailand leg taking place October 8–9, 2025. The mission is designed to strengthen investment, tourism, and higher education connections between Canberra and key Thai stakeholders.
The delegation is focusing on attracting direct investment into Canberra, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, while promoting Canberra’s higher education programs to Thai students and educational agents. Officials say the visit is a hands-on opportunity to showcase Canberra’s opportunities and build stronger links with Southeast Asia.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr Photo Courtesy The Australian
In Bangkok, Chief Minister Barr delivered a keynote at a reception hosted by the Australian Ambassador and met with government and tourism officials, including the Minister of Commerce and representatives from the Thailand Board of Investment. A roundtable with Thai higher education agents highlighted Canberra’s universities and academic offerings, aiming to encourage more Thai students to consider studying in the ACT.
The mission aligns with the Australian Government’s “Invested: Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040,” which identifies education, skills, and services as critical drivers for long-term investment and regional growth. The ACT Government confirmed that the Chief Minister’s participation costs approximately $9,500, funded from the existing executive budget.
Officials believe the mission could result in increased student exchanges, new tourism revenue, and investment in Canberra’s hospitality sector. While the specific projects and investments that may materialize remain to be seen, the visit represents a direct opportunity for Thai students and investors to engage with Canberra’s offerings.
