As the world emerges from the global pandemic, Western Australia (WA) is ready to seize the opportunities created by a shifting economic and geopolitical landscape.

Our new Agent General and Investment and Trade Commissioners are key to the WA Government’s international strategy to attract investment and promote trade for the State.

A hub and spoke model will expand our presence in new markets, making WA more competitive, especially in emerging industries such as renewable energy.

In August, John Langoulant AO was appointed Agent General for WA in the United Kingdom/ Europe, following decades of experience in executive and non-executive roles across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.

He replaced Commodore Mike Deeks CSC RAN (Rtd) who completed his three-year term in June.

Premier Mark McGowan welcomed our new Agent General: “John Langoulant AO is an outstanding choice as the new Agent General for WA in the United Kingdom and Europe region.

“His extensive experience across a range of sectors has led him to be one of the most highly respected business leaders in the State.”

Our new Agent General took up his role in October and arrived in London in November to begin a three-year term.

“The real activity is around investment attraction, but it’s also about market diversification,” he said.

“It’s a broad remit - finding new markets for new and established industries, both in WA and offshore, to develop our State.

“The UK has been a source of significant investment throughout our State’s history and remains very important to Western Australia and Australia.

“Developing what we already have in WA, bringing individuals and businesses out of the UK and Europe - that will be my focus.”

John aims to promote the State as an investment destination and optimise trade opportunities for WA businesses.

“In the last 100 years, economic growth has defined our economy,” he said. “It provides opportunities for new jobs.

“Part of my role is convincing people to invest in WA and to come and live here, as new opportunities emerge from population growth.”

What does our new Agent General hope to achieve in the next three years?

“I am an incessant engager, I enjoy meeting new people and I’m hungry for success,” he said.

“When my term ends, no one in WA or Europe who wanted to do business in these two markets will say they missed an opportunity to work with me or say hello.

“That’s my first criteria, to get out and let people know what WA offers and that there’s an open door for engagement.”

And what will he miss most about living in WA?

“I have three children and seven grandchildren,” he said. “I’ll really miss them.

“WA is a magnificent place to live. I’ll miss the seasonal differences, the fresh air, the beaches and Rottnest Island!

“I’m looking forward to seeing London in full swing. Also getting into Europe and seeing the big cities, the economic drivers and social diversification.

“I’ll see you in London!"

Published on: 30 November 2021