On 30th June 2026, the Australia-Japan Business Co-operation Committee (AJBCC) and the National Federation of Australia-Japan Societies (NATFED) co-hosted a Gala Dinner in the Great Hall at Parliament House to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the NARA Treaty.
The aim of the Gala Dinner was to bring together representatives from government, business, industry, education, cultural organisations and the many contributors to the people-to-people relationship between Australia and Japan. What began as a simple conversation between me, as Acting President of NATFED, and Mr Richard Andrews, CEO of AJBCC, grew into a landmark event attended by more than 600 guests from across Australia.
We were honoured to receive video messages from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Sakae Takaichi. This was followed by an address from the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs. Mr Horii Iwao, Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, also spoke about the enduring strength of the bilateral relationship. Mr David Smith MP, Chair of the Australian Parliamentary Friendship Group, then proposed a toast celebrating the achievements of the past 50 years.
The significance of this anniversary was underscored by the strong bipartisan representation at the event. Guests included the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Sue Lines, and the Deputy President, Senator Slade Brockman. Also in attendance were the Treasurer, the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP; Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell; Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, the Hon Madeleine King MP; Shadow Foreign Minister, the Hon Ted O’Brien MP, representing the Leader of the Opposition; Leader of The Nationals, Senator the Hon Matthew Canavan; and Senator the Hon Susan McDonald, Shadow Minister for Resources. They were joined by Australian Ambassador to Japan Andrew Shearer, Japanese Ambassador to Australia Suzuki Kazuhiro, and many individuals who have contributed to all aspects of the Australia-Japan relationship over several decades.
In my role with NATFED, one of my key aims was to ensure strong representation of the “soft diplomacy” that has helped shape the relationship over the past 50 years. It was clear of the significance of the role of the National Federation of Australia Japan Societies across Australia, with representation from: Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia, NSW, ACT, Coffs Harbour and Tasmania. All of those represented gave recognition to the role of the people-to people soft diplomacy, which has brought the relationship between Australia and Japan to life over the last 50 years. Hats off to all the AJS Societies across Australia, we can be proud of our ongoing achievements.
Over six months of planning, emails travelled across the country inviting those who have dedicated part of their lives, whether large or small, to building the friendship between Australia and Japan. I would like to sincerely thank those who made considerable sacrifices to attend, travelling from places as far apart as Broome in Western Australia and Thursday Island in Queensland. The evening showcased the tireless efforts of volunteers who have strengthened the bilateral relationship over many years, as well as young people who are embarking on the journey of shaping the next 50 years.
The entertainment was a highlight of the evening. Performers included Sanshi from Western Australia on didgeridoo, the Byron Bay Taiko Drummers, and Melbourne-based shakuhachi player Anne Norman. Together, they created a unique musical experience that reflected the rich cultural traditions of both Australia and Japan.
Midway through the evening, guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between Melanie Brock and one of Australia’s favourite advocates of Japanese culture, Adam Liaw. Their discussion explored culinary journeys, cultural exchange and Adam’s deep connection to Japan.
No celebration of Australia-Japan friendship would be complete without recognising some of Japan’s finest beverages. A special thank you goes to Yoi Yoi Sake for providing sake, particularly Prince Nagaya from Nara; Kanbay providing Shochu from Iki Island; and Asahi Beverages for Nikka Whisky.
The beautiful floral arrangements, provided by Poetry Flowers, found a second life the following day when they were donated to a local aged care facility. The residents and staff were delighted to receive them, bringing colour and brightness to their reception and dining areas.
When this journey began, I had little appreciation for the intricacies involved in delivering an event of this scale. Weekly meetings with Urban Event Management and fortnightly meetings with the Steering Committee soon became a regular part of life.
I would like to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Mr Richard Andrews (AJBCC), Mr Ben Wholagan (President, Australia-Japan Society of Western Australia), Mr Isamu Yamaguchi (Embassy of Japan), Ms Melanie Brock (Adviser), Ms Natsuko Ogawa (Ashurst, Perkins, Cole), and Ms Christina Ishizuka (AJBCC). Each brought valuable expertise, insight and support throughout the planning and delivery of the event, and their collective efforts were instrumental to its success.
I would also like to thank the AJBCC team, including Yuki Tejima, Mariko Green and Toshiki Nakamoto, for their dedication and assistance throughout the process.
The Steering Committee’s guidance, ideas and ongoing support were invaluable, helping to shape the event at every stage. I am also grateful for the support provided by the Embassy of Japan through the assistance of Mr Yamaguchi and Mr Wholagan in facilitating engagement with parliamentary and political representatives, ensuring strong representation at the event. I also sincerely appreciate the advice, encouragement and practical support provided by Melanie Brock, Natsuko Ogawa and Christina Ishizuka, all of whom played an important role in the smooth delivery of the event.
I would like to make special mention of Richard Andrews, whose thoughtful advice, attention to detail and steady guidance were invaluable throughout the planning process. Richard was an exceptional sounding board for both ideas and challenges, consistently bringing a considered and strategic perspective to discussions. His willingness to share his experience and offer constructive feedback helped provide direction and confidence at key stages of the journey.
Thanks also to the DFAT team for their assistance in producing the video message and for their thoughtful guidance and support throughout the planning process.
This event was very much a collaborative effort, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed their time, expertise and commitment to making it a success.
Throughout the process, I found myself serving as marketing, accounting, secretariat and procurement departments all rolled into one. Balancing this volunteer role alongside my work as a teacher and President of the Canberra Australia-Japan Society was challenging but immensely rewarding. I am especially grateful for the support of my Canberra AJS committee and, in particular, Mr Ben Raven, who designed the backdrop artwork for the event.
We are deeply grateful to our major event partner, the Australia-Japan Foundation, which is also celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
We also thank our Platinum Sponsors: Chevron Australia, INPEX Corporation, JERA Australia, Mitsubishi Australia Ltd, Mitsui & Co. (Australia) Ltd, TAL Australia, Tianqi Lithium and Woodside Energy.
Our sincere thanks also go to our Gold Sponsors: Gilbert + Tobin, Hancock Iron Ore, Marubeni Corporation, M Resources, MUFG and the Port of Newcastle.
I hope everyone who attended had a wonderful evening. For those who were unable to join us, I encourage you to take a moment to celebrate this milestone with a toast to the past 50 years. In some way, each of us has contributed a piece to the remarkable Australia-Japan story, helping to assemble a jigsaw that continues to grow and evolve.
It was both a privilege and an honour, as Acting President of NATFED, to be involved in such a monumental and significant celebration of the Australia-Japan relationship.
Dianne Fitzpatrick
Acting President
National Federation of Australia Japan Societies