Today marks the official commencement of Australia’s Presidency of the G20.

Hosting the G20 in 2014 is a big opportunity and a big responsibility for Australia.

It allows us to help shape the global economic agenda for the benefit of all countries, and provides the opportunity to showcase the best of our nation.

The G20’s membership includes most of Australia’s largest trading partners – particularly those in the Asia-Pacific with whom we already have close and valued relationships.

Australia’s G20 Presidency in 2014 will focus on:

• Promoting stronger economic growth and more jobs; and
• Making the global economy more resilient to deal with future shocks.

As this year’s host, Australia has invited Singapore and New Zealand to join the G20 table in 2014. Both will bring much expertise to the G20’s work.

The G20 Summit will be the most significant meeting of world leaders Australia has ever hosted.

With 4,000 international delegates and 3,000 media anticipated to attend, it will bring global exposure to Brisbane in a way not experienced since the Commonwealth Games and World Expo of the 1980s.

There will also be a dedicated Trade Ministers Meeting and a dedicated Employment Ministers Meeting as part of the G20 2014 agenda.

I thank Premier Newman and the Queensland Government for working closely with the Commonwealth to support a successful Leaders Summit in November 2014.

Premier Campbell Newman said Queensland was looking forward to hosting both the G20 Finance Ministers’ Meeting and Leaders’ Summit.

“Queensland is Australia’s most diverse and beautiful state and is known worldwide for its beautiful beaches and stunning outback, but there is so much more to offer,” Mr Newman said.

“We are leading Australia in economic growth, business investment is up, tourism is undergoing a revival and confidence is high.

“There has never been a better time to invest, employ and grow in Queensland.

“We look forward to having Brisbane and the entire state in the world spotlight and the economic benefits that will follow from holding the G20 Summit here.”