Western Australia's (WA) strong and growing relationship with Indonesia was highlighted at our recent Welcome to WA event for delegates attending the Australia Indonesia Business Council Conference 2026 in Perth. 

We brought together business leaders, investors and government representatives to explore opportunities for trade, investment and collaboration between the two regions.

Emceed by Simone Spencer, Deputy Director General for Strategy, Performance and International Engagement at the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification, the event showcased how WA businesses are building commercial success in Indonesia, while highlighting the important role that our Jakarta office continues to play in supporting businesses to enter and grow in Indonesia and beyond. 

WA Premier, Hon Roger Cook MLA, reflected on the importance of Indonesia as a key partner for WA, currently the State’s 11th largest trading partner, and the opportunities that exist to strengthen economic ties between the two regions.

A highlight of the program was two fireside chats hosted by Bryce Green, Investment and Trade Commissioner for ASEAN (Indonesia), featuring two WA businesses that have successfully expanded into Indonesia with support from our in-market team. 

The first discussion featured Perth-based biotechnology company Uluu, which is developing sustainable seaweed-based alternatives to conventional plastics. The conversation with Dian Kurniawati, CEO of Uluu Indonesia, explored how WA innovation is helping address global sustainability challenges, while creating new opportunities in advanced manufacturing and the circular economy.

The second fireside chat featured Juicebox, a Perth-based digital innovation and transformation agency with operations in Australia and Indonesia. Drawing on its experience working across both markets, Chris Nelson, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Juicebox, shared practical insights into digital transformation, artificial intelligence adoption and the opportunities available for businesses looking to build commercial partnerships in Southeast Asia.

Together, the discussions provided delegates with real-world perspectives on entering and operating in Indonesia, while demonstrating the breadth of WA capability across emerging industries.

We were pleased to also be joined by Australia Indonesia Business Council Chairperson, Vera Saragih, and Lord Mayor of Perth, Bruce Reynolds, who each delivered a closing address. Both speakers reflected on the enduring partnership between WA and Indonesia and encouraged delegates to continue building connections throughout the conference.

The program highlighted the strong foundations underpinning the WA-Indonesia relationship and the growing opportunities for collaboration across trade, investment, innovation and technology as both economies continue to strengthen ties.

Is your business looking to expand its presence across Southeast Asia? Connect with our ASEAN Hub for tailored advice and support. 

Published on: 08 October 2026

Energy, Health and Medical Technology, International Education, Mining & METS, Primary Industries, Technology & Advanced Manufacturing, Tourism & Creative Industries