WA Eyes Europe for Future Economic Boost
Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti will lead an official mission to Europe this week to strengthen Western Australia’s economic and cultural opportunities, as part of the State Government plans to diversify the economy.
The mission will showcase WA as a secure, competitive and innovative destination for investment, with a focus on economic infrastructure, renewable energy, manufacturing, transport and sport.
In Italy, the Deputy Premier will meet with senior executives from leading companies, including large-infrastructure builders Webuild Group who will build WA’s new Women and Babies Hospital Confindustria, NHOA Energy, Saipem and Energy Dome to explore opportunities in energy storage, battery systems, engineering and chemical supply.
Following the successful AC Milan pre-season tour in Perth last month, the Deputy Premier will also meet with officials from the Serie A to discuss potential future opportunities in WA.
The program will also include meetings with the Australian Ambassador to Italy and members of the Italian Parliament to further cement WA’s long-standing economic and cultural relationship with Italy.
In Sweden, the Deputy Premier will visit one of the biggest European commercial ports, as well as Volvo’s headquarters in Gothenburg to gain insights into world-leading electric vehicle manufacturing technologies as Western Australia advances its program to locally-build and maintain electrified buses and ferries.
The mission builds on WA’s established ties with both Italy and Sweden, while highlighting the State’s capability to deliver clean energy projects, advanced manufacturing and major economic infrastructure.
It also follows former Premier Mark McGowan’s 2022 mission to Italy, UK and Ireland, which marked the establishment of the first direct RomePerth flight.
By promoting WA’s expertise and competitive advantages, the mission aims to attract new investment, create local jobs and strengthen the State’s position as a global leader in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
As stated by Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti:
“This mission is about strengthening our economic relationships and showcasing WA as a world-class destination for investment and innovation, to further investment opportunities and create more local jobs for our State.
“Western Australia is an incredible place to live in, study, visit, host events and do business, and this is something I will be promoting as part of the upcoming mission.
“WA is leading the way in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and major infrastructure, and this visit will help attract the partnerships and investment needed to create more local jobs.
“By engaging directly with global industry leaders, we can secure new opportunities that deliver benefits for our economy and position WA as a leader on the world stage.”
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook Labor Government/WA-looks-to-Europe-to-strengthen-future-economic-opportunities–20250824