Chamber of Commerce & Industry Australia-Philippines

26/04/2026

Celebrating your success Miguelitos Ice Cream Australia and inviting all our friends and followers to experience swirls of happiness with unique Filipino flavours.

Priyanka Chopra
Connie da Cunha

Miguelitos Ice Cream has officially opened its 10th branch in Australia at Westfield Mt Gravatt, Brisbane.

This milestone strengthens the brand’s growing international presence, bringing its signature soft serve and less-sugar, modern Filipino desserts to more customers.

Miguelitos extends its heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support of our VIPs:
Ms. Priya Jagnathan, President of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin;
Ms. Connie De Cunha, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Australia Philippines;
Mr. Jason Cordi, Editor in Chief of The Philippine Times;
Mr. Nelson Zapanta, franchisee of Miguelitos Diner Blacktown and Campbelltown, Sydney, Australia;
Ms. Dixie Morante, President of FAB’s; and
Mr. Jun Licera, Administrator for Filipinos in Queensland.

Miguelitos Westfield Mt. Gravatt is now open and serving - reflecting Miguelitos’ continued commitment to global expansion and delivering enjoyable treats worldwide.

Miguelitos Ice Cream Philippines
Miguelitos Ice Cream Australia

02/04/2026

Australia ramps up trade, education push in PH

Australia is stepping up efforts to expand trade, education, and investment ties with the Philippines, as bilateral relations hit a “historic high” and two-way trade reaches record levels, an Australian lawmaker said.

28/03/2026

Serving swirls of happiness at Mt Gravatt and Chermside — and soon in suburbs across Australia.

27/03/2026

2026 Lord Mayor's Multicultural Scholarship Program - Applications now open!

Applications for the 2026 Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Business Scholarship Program are now open.

Key highlights:
👉 More than 50 scholarship placements are available for Brisbane residents from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are committed to growing their business skills.
👉 This year’s course offerings include leadership, cyber security, AI, exporting, fashion, entrepreneurship and more.
👉Applications close on Monday 20 April 2026 (details available via Council website 🔗 https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/business/business-support/multicultural-business-and-awards)

26/03/2026

STOP PRESS: Brisbane City Council's Visual Merchandising Training Program

Sharing this new opportunity from Brisbane’s economic development team specifically designed for independent local retailers who are looking to refresh their shopfronts and improve in‑store customer experience.

Please see below for more details:

In 2026, Council will deliver a fully funded Visual Merchandising Training Program to help eligible small retailers elevate their visual presentation, attract more customers and increase sales.

Whether retailers want to improve window displays, update store layouts or create a more cohesive brand experience, this program provides practical, expert guidance.

Delivered in partnership with industry specialists Mon + Co Agency, participating businesses will receive:
• tailored visual merchandising insights specific to their store
• a mix of online learning modules and face‑to‑face masterclasses
• practical tools, templates and resources to support consistent brand presentation
• personalised follow‑up coaching to help implement improvements

Registration are now open.

This program builds on Council’s Shops that Shine – Guide to Visual Merchandising, offering hands‑on skills to create attractive shopfronts, improve customer flow, increase foot traffic and strengthen in‑store engagement.

Who can apply?
Independent retailers located within Brisbane’s Local Government Area are encouraged to register, with preference given to small, locally owned businesses.

How to register
Applications can be submitted online now on this link 🔗 https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/business/business-support/business-services/visual-merchandising-training-program and will close at 12 noon on 15 April 2026.

Please share this opportunity widely within your networks to help strengthen and uplift Brisbane’s retail sector.

For any questions, please contact the Economic Development team at:[email protected].

Council offers a fully funded visual merchandising program for eligible Brisbane retailers, with tailored insights and practical ways to improve your store.

07/03/2026

STOP PRESS: On this International Women’s Day let’s Give to Gain

Today (8 March), the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Australia Philippines proudly joins the global celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, embracing this year’s inspiring theme: Give to Gain.

Across our communities, industries, and nations, women continue to demonstrate that when we give — our time, our talent, our leadership, our compassion — we gain stronger economies, more resilient societies, and a future shaped by shared prosperity.

At CCIAP, we honour the women who give boldly: the entrepreneurs who innovate, the professionals who lead with integrity, the community builders who open doors for others, and the trailblazers who show that progress is a collective achievement.

Big thumbs up 👍 👍 to the Honourable Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Women, and the Honourable David Crisafulli MP, Queensland Premier for championing the vital role women play in building thriving communities and economies.

To every woman across Australia, the Philippines and the world — Your contributions enrich our communities. Your leadership strengthens our future. Your giving creates our shared gain.

Happy International Women’s Day 2026.
Together, we rise by lifting others.

20/02/2026

Share. Learn. Connect.

Every so often, you step into a room and feel the energy shift—the kind of room where people arrive as professionals but leave as a community. That was the atmosphere on Thursday, 19 February 2026, when our Chamber members joined local business leaders in Brisbane for Eric Bailey’s High Performance and Leadership Workshop.

More than 50 participants came together with a shared intention: to grow, to lead with purpose, and to elevate the standard of service we bring to our customers and communities. Eric delivered a powerful reminder that leadership is not a title—it is a daily practice of courage, clarity, and connection. The conversations in the room reflected that. People weren’t just taking notes; they were rethinking how they show up for their teams, their clients, and themselves.

Following the workshop, we were pleased to formally present Certificates of Membership to our newest Chamber members—each one contributing their own story, expertise, and commitment to community:

• New Life Restoration (NRL) Group
• Michelle Costin
• Raymond Caparas
• Jeane Mayne (not present)

Moments like these remind us why our work matters. Behind every individual is a business owner who has taken risks, created jobs, and chosen to be part of something bigger than themselves.

We also celebrated another milestone—the official opening of the NRL Agile Equipment Facility. This achievement reflects not only business growth but the resilience, innovation, and determination that define our community.

In our Chamber we hold and participate in, events like this to reinforce our belief that when we create spaces to learn, connect, and uplift one another, we strengthen the fabric of our local economy and the wellbeing of the people we serve.

29/12/2025

Looking forward to collaborating with you Minister John-Paul Langbroek MP and the Crisafulli Government in 2026 and beyond to achieve our common goals: long term peace and sustainable growth and prosperity! 🇦🇺 🇵🇭

14/12/2025

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Australia Philippines condemns the horrific antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach that claimed innocent lives and injured many. We extend our deepest condolences to the Jewish community and all affected families.

Violence and hatred have no place in Australia or anywhere in the world. As a Chamber, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering multi-faith harmony, multicultural unity, and resilient partnerships between nations. Together, we stand stronger, united against division and in pursuit of peace and dignity for all.

08/12/2025

Celebrating Growth, Resilience, and Filipino Excellence in Australia

On Sunday, 7 December 2025, Skinsentials ClinicalSkincare marked an important milestone with the opening of its expanded Gold Coast Cosmetics Clinic in Parkwood. This achievement reflects not only business growth but also the dedication and vision that drive entrepreneurial success.

The event was honoured by the presence of Honourary Philippine Consul for Queensland, Attorney Sheryll Gabutero, and the President of the Chamber of Commerce Australia Philippines Inc Connie da Cunha, underscoring the strong ties between our communities and the Chamber’s commitment to supporting members in their journeys.

At the heart of this milestone is Ms. Irene Loríco, an Australian Registered Nurse whose perseverance and hard work exemplify the migrant spirit. Irene’s journey is a powerful reminder that with resilience and determination, Australia is a country where dreams can be achieved and possibilities are endless.

As a proud member of the Chamber of Commerce Australia Philippines Inc., Skinsentials embodies the values of multicultural enterprise and community pride.

The Chamber and its Executive Committee extend its warmest congratulations to Irene. May this new chapter bring continued success, innovation, and inspiration to all who walk through Skinsentials’ doors.

07/12/2025

Stop press.
Thank you Jason Cordi and The Philippine Times (Australia)

04/12/2025

The Power of Conversation 💫
It opens doors, sparks ideas, achieves breakthroughs, and builds bridges for collaboration.

At last night’s Chamber’s End-of-Year and Christmas Celebration, this power was alive and thriving!

In partnership with Ace Tamayo and Littles Lawyers, The Legal Tech Company and The Legal Tech Company - Philippines, our Chamber was honoured to host local businesses, professionals and community leaders, and deeply grateful for the presence of Honourable John-Paul Langbroek MP, Minister for Education and the Arts, Member for Surfers Paradise representing the Queensland Government and, Honourary Philippine Consul for Queensland, Attorney Sheryll Gabutero a.h.

Minister Langbroek and Consul Sheryll joined our Executive Committee in presenting our new Chamber members with their respective Certificate of Membership:
⭐️ Global Process Manager Inc
⭐️ Heidi Davie
⭐️ Keilah Reyes
⭐️ Skinsentials

As Australia and the Philippines prepare to mark 80 years of bilateral relations in May 2026, we are reminded that people-to-people connections and practical initiatives are the true engines of economic prosperity and lasting peace — not only between our two nations, but across ASEAN.

From our Chamber family to yours: Merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous New Year! 🎄✨