Profile And History Of ABCD
Profile of The Australian Business Council
The Australian Business Council, Dubai (ABCD) is a non-profit organisation with a broad objective: to build connections within and to the Australian Community, both in Dubai and further afield.
The remit is to provide a platform that inspires community, develops business activities, promotes trade and enhances beneficial relationships between Australia and the region. Together, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of all members and attendees at ABCD-organised events.
Equality is a core value for the Australian Business Council Dubai (ABCD), and the ABCD welcomes people of all genders, nationalities, cultures and backgrounds as we strive to create an environment that reflects the communities we serve. We believe that the combination of different backgrounds, skills and experiences creates a stronger organisation. Our commitment to celebrating and giving a voice to a diverse range of individuals, businesses and government representatives fuels not only stronger ties between Australia and the Gulf region but connects you more closely with your customers and their communities.
Membership is open to local branches of Australian companies, agents of Australian companies, companies or individuals who have business relationships with Australia, Australian citizens working in the Gulf, Alumni of Australian Universities in Dubai and Emirati companies.
History of The Australian Business Council
Australian Business in the Gulf (ABIG), was the was original name of the ABCD and was originally conceived in 1993 by the then Australian Consul General and senior Trade Commissioner, Robert Sheppard, as an outcome of gathering together various Australian businessmen at informal lunches and networking events. In August 1994, Robert’s successor, Peter Deacon, suggested that a committee be formed, and the inaugural meeting took place on 31st August 1994.
In June of 2007 ABIG took the decision to change the name of the association to the Australian Business Council Dubai, a move designed to raise the profile of the group and to focus more upon the networking outcomes of the members. A further amendment to the constitution in February of 2019 changed the name to the Australian Business Council and facilitated the inclusion of Australian Community organisations to further support not just Australian businesses and businesspeople but also their families and the wider Australian community living and working in Dubai and surrounding regions.