The third annual Vietnam–Australia Forum convened 11 September 2025 in Hanoi, co-hosted by the Australian Embassy and the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics (HCMA). The event marked a special occasion—the official visit to Vietnam by Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia.
Under the theme “Building Public Service Excellence in a New Era of Growth,” the Forum brought together more than 500 senior leaders, policymakers, academics, and innovators from both nations. Participants represented a wide spectrum of sectors—from government ministries and research institutions to international organisations and private enterprises.
Opening the Forum, Prof Dr Nguyen Xuan Thang, Politburo member and President of HCMA, highlighted the growing depth and trust in the bilateral relationship: “This Forum reflects our shared vision for a future where public institutions are not only more effective, but also more inclusive, innovative, and resilient.”
Prof Dr Nguyen Xuan Thang, Politburo member and President of HCMA delivers opening remarks.
Governor-General Mostyn echoed this sentiment, stating: “The theme of this year’s Forum has resonance for both our countries, and relevance to our plans for the future, both as sovereign nations, and as regional partners. The reason we are here today, to exchange ideas and learn from each other about public sector reform, is that our countries are longstanding friends.”
H.E. the Hon Sam Mostyn, Govenor-General of Australia, delivers opening remarks.
The Forum served as a milestone to reflect on progress since the elevation of the partnership in 2024, and to reaffirm a joint vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient region. Discussions aligned closely with Vietnam’s reform priorities, including legal development, digital transformation, international integration, and private sector growth. The event also celebrated Australia’s enduring support for Vietnam’s public sector capacity building and human resource development.
Three top Australian public sector leaders brought fresh energy to the Forum, sharing bold ideas and practical strategies for smarter, more responsive governance. Barry Sterland (Productivity Commissioner), Jo Talbot (First Assistant Commissioner, Australian Public Service Commission), and Marcel Van Kints (General Manager, Australian Bureau of Statistics) led dynamic sessions on digital innovation, data-driven policymaking, and institutional capacity building—highlighting how Vietnam and Australia are tackling shared challenges and building future-ready public institutions together.
Panel discussion between Vietnamese and Australian experts
The forum gathered more than 500 delegates.
The Forum is a flagship initiative of the Vietnam–Australia Centre (VAC), supported by the Australian Government. As an annual dialogue, it fosters open exchange, knowledge sharing, and the generation of bold ideas to drive long-term cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Established in 2019 through a joint Prime Ministers’ statement, VAC stands as a testament to the trust and collaboration between Australia and Vietnam.
