VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA & TÜRKİYE: BUILDING A STRATEGIC BRIDGE FOR TRADE AND INNOVATION

Victoria’s trade and investment relationship with Türkiye is deepening, supported by strong cultural connections, long-standing people-to-people links, and new commercial pathways

As a proud Turkish-Australian, it is a pleasure to contribute and reflect on the growing opportunities for collaboration between Türkiye and Australia, particularly in the dynamic State of Victoria.

Victoria is a leading contributor to Australia’s economic success, and it is the most rapidly growing State in Australia in terms of population, jobs growth, and the economy more broadly. Home to Melbourne, our state capital and a global city consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities, Victoria is renowned for its world-class education system, enviable lifestyle, being a sports, major events and cultural capital, and a state that builds and makes things.

Our economy is built on diversity, with strengths in industries such as agriculture, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, health and life sciences, sport, and now a strong renewable energy sector. Türkiye and Victoria share natural synergies in many of these sectors. Victoria’s trade and investment relationship with Türkiye is deepening, supported by strong cultural connections, long-standing people-to-people links, and new commercial pathways.

The potential for sectoral expansion is significant. Turkish businesses are engaging with Victorian firms in manufacturing, mining technology, tourism, wellness and retail. Victorian companies such as Speed3D, Gekko, Duratray are already working with Turkish counterparts, with support from the Victorian Government Trade and Investment office in the region.

Aviation is also boosting bilateral links. In March 2024, Turkish Airlines launched its first-ever Australian route, choosing Melbourne as the inaugural destination for its tri-weekly Istanbul–Melbourne service. This new connection, expected to bring over A$132 million in annual economic benefit to Victoria, not only strengthens trade and tourism flows, but deepens cultural ties, with Turkish Airlines also serving as Principal Partner of Melbourne Victory Football Club and sponsor of the upcoming World Chambers Congress, a bien nial event that will take place in Melbourne in September 2025.

Education is another pillar of the partnership. Türkiye is Victoria’s largest source of international students from the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa region. In 2024, more than 3,250 Turkish students chose Victoria, 44% of all Turkish enrolments in Australia, with strong demand in English language, vocational training and higher education programs.

Victoria’s relationship with Türkiye is also built on strong personal and diplomatic connections. Melbourne hosts the largest Turkish-born community in Australia, and Türkiye has maintained a Consulate in the city since 1973. High-level visits to Gallipoli by Victorian leaders, including the (former) Governor of Victoria and members of Parliament reflect the deep historical and cultural ties between our peoples.

With 23 trade and investment offices strategically located in key markets across the globe, Victoria boasts the most effective international network of trade and investment offices of any state or territory. With the Victorian Government actively represented across Europe, the Middle East, Türkiye and Africa via its offices in Paris, Dubai and Frankfurt, the state is well-positioned to support Turkish investors and entrepreneurs looking to engage with Australia.

Victoria stands ready as a strategic, reliable and welcoming partner for Türkiye, offering opportunity, innovation and connection at every level.