WA–Asia Business Forum 2026: Shaping Western Australia's Future with Asia
The Western Australian Chinese Chamber of Commerce (WACCC) was proud to welcome almost 200 business leaders, industry executives, government representatives, investors and international stakeholders to the WA–Asia Business Forum 2026: WA’s Role in Asia’s Energy Transition and Economic Future.
As WACCC’s flagship annual business forum, the event brought together leaders from across government and industry to examine the opportunities and challenges shaping Western Australia’s long-term economic relationship with Asia. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions and meaningful networking, delegates explored how Western Australia can continue to strengthen its position as a trusted trading partner while remaining globally competitive in an increasingly dynamic economic and geopolitical environment.
A Shared Vision for Western Australia's Future
The Forum was honoured to welcome The Hon. Roger Cook MLA, Premier of Western Australia, who officially opened the event and reaffirmed the importance of Western Australia’s enduring trade and investment relationships across the Asia-Pacific region.
The day also featured an exclusive Breakfast Roundtable with The Hon. David Michael MLA, providing senior business leaders with the opportunity to discuss Western Australia’s economic outlook and investment priorities, while The Hon. Amber-Jade Sanderson MLA opened the afternoon Energy Session, highlighting the role of government in supporting the State’s ongoing energy transition and economic development.
Looking Beyond Today's Markets
A highlight of the Forum was the keynote address delivered by Peter Coleman, who encouraged delegates to look beyond short-term market cycles and consider the long-term conditions required for Western Australia to remain an attractive destination for investment.
Drawing on decades of leadership across the global energy sector, Peter explored the importance of remaining competitive for capital, leveraging Western Australia’s world-class capabilities and strengthening partnerships with Asia. His address challenged delegates to think strategically about where Western Australia can create enduring value and how the State can continue to build on its position as one of the region’s most trusted and reliable economic partners.
Collaboration Driving Opportunity
The Mining & Resources and Energy sessions brought together an outstanding panel of industry leaders who shared practical insights into the opportunities and challenges facing their sectors.
Discussions explored investment attraction, critical minerals, LNG, renewable energy, energy security, downstream processing and the evolving expectations of international investors. While each speaker brought a unique perspective, there was broad agreement that Western Australia’s long-term success will rely on continued collaboration between government, industry and international partners, supported by policy certainty, innovation and sustained investment.
Building Stronger Connections with Asia
Throughout the Forum, one theme consistently emerged: Western Australia’s relationship with Asia has never been more important.
As global markets continue to evolve, the State is uniquely positioned to support Asia’s growing demand for resources, energy and innovation. Equally important is the opportunity to deepen partnerships, share expertise and strengthen the relationships that underpin long-term economic growth across the region.
By bringing together leaders from business, government and industry, the Forum reinforced WACCC’s ongoing commitment to facilitating meaningful dialogue, fostering collaboration and creating opportunities that strengthen Western Australia’s engagement with Asia.
Thank You
WACCC extends its sincere thanks to our keynote speaker, moderators and panellists for sharing their expertise so generously, and to every delegate whose participation, questions and insights contributed to the quality of discussion throughout the day.
We also acknowledge our valued sponsors – Autoleague, Axiom Edge Solutions and Archisolar, and partners, whose continued support enables WACCC to deliver events that connect leaders, encourage collaboration and contribute to important conversations about Western Australia’s future.
Forum Videos & Speaker Resources
Opening & Welcome Remarks
Dr Stephen Choo (Chair of Organising Committee, Vice-President of WA Chinese Chamber of Commerce)
Mr Tony Chong (President, WA Chinese Chamber of Commerce)
Hon Roger Cook MLA (Premier of Western Australia; Minister for Defence Industries; Tourism, Trade and Investment; Economic Diversification at Government of Western Australia)
Keynote Remarks
Mr Peter Coleman (Non-Executive Director of SLB, Former CEO & Managing Director of Woodside)
Mining & Resources Session
Ms Apple Paget (Group CFO, Fortescue)
Dr Zeng Qingtao (Non-executive Director, Stelar Metals)
Mr Daniel Hoghton (Executive Chairman, Rocktivity)
Opening remarks for the Energy Session
Hon Amber-Jade Sanderson MLA (Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation; Manufacturing; Skills and TAFE; Pilbara; Assisting the Minister for Defence Industries at WA Government)
Energy Session
Ms Kirsten Rose (Executive GM – Western Australia & Strategy, AEMO)
Ms Samantha Buchanan (VP Commercial, Shell Australia)
Mr Nigel Baker (CEO, Atmos Renewables)
