The Australian Government is now operating in line with Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.

Carolyn Patteson (second from left) with Australian High Commissioner to the UK, Stephen Smith (centre left), Dr Gaynor Jeffery OBE (UK Co-Chair, centre right) and delegates at the inaugural Australia-UK Strategic Innovation Dialogue

Carolyn Patteson (second from left) with Australian High Commissioner to the UK, His Excellency The Honourable Stephen Smith (centre left), Dr Gaynor Jeffery OBE (UK Co-Chair, centre right) and delegates at the inaugural Australia-UK Strategic Innovation Dialogue.

Australia and the United Kingdom held the inaugural Strategic Innovation Dialogue in London on 8-9 April 2024.  

The dialogue is part of the Innovation chapter of the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). It supports trade between two of the world’s most pioneering economies in innovative goods and services.  

A joint statement from meeting co-chairs points to mutual innovation priorities and highlights collaboration opportunities in:

  • future health advancements, including exploring the potential for a ‘biobridge’ to advance new and innovative medicines, diagnostics and therapeutics
  • deepening cooperation on battery manufacturing
  • identifying collaborative opportunities for offshore wind
  • harmonising standards and interoperability of emerging technologies, including safe and responsible AI. 

The joint statement comes at a significant time when both countries are looking to:

  • strengthen and diversify global supply chains 
  • manage a transition to net zero emissions 
  • ensure the responsible and safe use of critical technologies. 

The next Strategic Innovation Dialogue will be in Australia in 2026.