In honor of the International Day of Potato May 30th 2024!

Thank you for joining us at the "Meet the Members" event on May 30th! It was an evening filled with vibrant conversations, new connections, and plenty of fun.

In honor of the International Day of Potato, we had a unique twist with a special prize for the last member to arrive—a bunch of potatoes! 🎉🥔

Congratulations to our winner, and thank you to everyone who participated with such enthusiasm.

The event was a perfect opportunity for our community's members to mix, mingle, and connect. We were thrilled to see so many of you making new friends, finding potential collaborators, and simply enjoying the evening.

BABC Celebrates Anzac Day on April 25, 2024

On April 25, 2024, the Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) proudly celebrated Anzac Day, a day of significant historical importance. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants who joined us in commemorating this solemn occasion.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I. It is a day of remembrance for the soldiers who served and sacrificed their lives in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. The spirit of Anzac, with its qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice, continues to resonate deeply within our communities.

The event brought together members and friends of BABC for a meaningful evening of reflection and camaraderie. Through this gathering, we honored the legacy of the ANZACs and reaffirmed our commitment to fostering strong ties between Bulgaria, Australia, and New Zealand.

Insightful Talk at Business Lady Excellence '24 on Australia’s Market Dynamics

The Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) is thrilled to reflect on the outstanding participation of Joana Kehlibarova at the Business Lady Excellence '24. Joana represented BABC and shared profound insights on "Australia Business Insights and Market Entry Strategy," underscoring the dynamic nature of the Australian market and opportunities for businesses.

We are immensely grateful to the organizers for inviting BABC to be a part of such an impactful platform, with a heartfelt thanks to Daniel Dimitrov for facilitating this opportunity. The attentive and engaging audience, even in the absence of a Q&A segment, displayed an invigorating level of interest and engagement, speaking volumes about the value of international business knowledge exchange.

Joana's presentation has not only contributed to the depth of the discourse on the Australia-Bulgaria business axis but has also been a testament to the expertise and dedication within the BABC community. We look forward to the lasting impacts of her contributions and the continued growth of our collective business endeavors.

Our deepest appreciation goes out to everyone involved in making Business Lady Excellence '24 a hallmark event for knowledge sharing and professional development. We are eager to witness and support the ripple effects of Joana's presentation in your future business ventures and collaborations.

Thank you, Joana, and thank you to all who participated.

 Heartfelt Thanks for a Memorable Australia Day Celebration

We at the Bulgarian Australian Business Council are filled with gratitude and joy as we reflect on the recent Australia Day celebration held in Sofia. This event was not just another gathering; it turned into a memorable evening where friends, colleagues, and new acquaintances came together to celebrate the spirit of Australia.

We were privileged to welcome over 70 guests, including esteemed dignitaries such as Alison Duncan, the Australian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania, and Encho Dimitrov, the Bulgarian Ambassador to Australia. Their presence added a significant level of depth and perspective to our discussions and festivities.

A highlight of the evening was our Australian-style raffle. The enthusiasm and generosity shown by everyone contributed to its success, with the proceeds set to support the kangaroo at Sofia Zoo. This effort was a beautiful demonstration of our community's spirit and commitment to making a positive impact.

We're excited to share with you a collection of photographs from the event. Capturing the laughter, conversations, and moments of connection, these images are a testament to the wonderful atmosphere of the evening.

To relive these memories, please click here

We extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you who joined us. Your participation made this celebration not just successful but truly special. As we look through these photographs, we're reminded of the joy and camaraderie that define our community.

Thank you once again for being a part of this extraordinary event. We eagerly await the next opportunity to gather and create more unforgettable memories together.

📢 Event Recap: "Meet the Members" Evening at Bar ME, Sofia

On November 30, 2023, the Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) hosted a successful "Meet the Members" event at Bar ME in Sofia. The evening was marked by lively conversations, networking, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Members and friends gathered to strengthen professional connections and explore new opportunities within the BABC community. Bar ME provided the perfect backdrop for an engaging and enjoyable experience.

A special thanks to all attendees for making the event a success, and to Bar ME for their hospitality.

Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming events and initiatives from BABC! #BABC #NetworkingEvent #BusinessCommunity

Australian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania, HE Ms Alison Duncan, Strengthens Ties with Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC)

Sofia, Bulgaria - October 14, 2023 - The Australian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania, HE Ms Alison Duncan, embarked on an official visit to Sofia on October 13th, 2023. During her visit, Ambassador Duncan presented her credentials to the President of Bulgaria, Rumen Radev, and engaged in a series of official engagements, marking a significant step in strengthening diplomatic relations between the nations.

As part of her official program, Ambassador Duncan made an essential stop to connect with the Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) and its esteemed members. The special gathering, which took place on Friday, October 13th, provided a unique opportunity for BABC members to meet and interact with Ambassador Duncan in an informal and convivial setting.

A distinguished career diplomat, Ambassador Duncan's wealth of experience and insights is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing bilateral relations between Australia and Bulgaria. Her mission aligns seamlessly with BABC's vision of fostering robust business ties and collaborations between the two nations.

The gathering was marked by fruitful discussions, productive networking, and a commitment to building bridges between the business communities of both countries. The event also saw the gracious offer of complimentary drinks, courtesy of Ambassador HE Ms. Alison Duncan, further symbolizing the strong bonds of friendship and collaboration between the two nations.

BABC members expressed their eagerness to welcome Ambassador Duncan to their vibrant community, recognizing her as a key partner in their ongoing mission to promote business relations and opportunities between Australia and Bulgaria.

Annual General Meeting 2023

Members Only

The Annual General Meeting of 2023 held by the Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) was a remarkable gathering of our esteemed members. It provided a pivotal platform for reflection, discussion, and decisive actions. During this event, we had the privilege of reviewing our notable achievements, presenting crucial financial reports, and electing new board members who will help steer our organization into the future.

As always, the AGM fostered an environment for networking and engagement among our valued members, allowing them to share insights and experiences. The agenda covered essential topics, from the CEO's report to discussions and resolutions. We also welcomed new board members who bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the council.

After the meeting, we had a delightful happy hour, where informal networking and conversations took place, reinforcing the bonds within our community.

The success of this AGM wouldn't have been possible without the active participation of our dedicated members. We greatly appreciate your continued support, enthusiasm, and dedication to the BABC. Your presence and insights at the AGM have been invaluable, shaping the future of our organization as we move forward together. Thank you for being an integral part of our community.

🌟 Thank You for Making the Aussie BBQ Event an Incredible Success! 🌟

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us at the Aussie BBQ and Networking Event. Your presence and enthusiasm made the evening truly remarkable! 🎉🙌

It was a pleasure to see familiar faces and meet new members of the BABC community. The energy and positive vibes throughout the event were infectious, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. 😊🤝

We extend our special thanks to MobiSystems Inc. for their sponsorship and for sharing their inspiring success story. Their valuable insights and experiences added great value to the event. 👏📈

The mouthwatering BBQ feast, accompanied by Dandelion Vineyards wine 🍖🍷 and Bulgarian beer 🍻, was a delightful culinary experience. We hope you enjoyed the delicious food, lively conversations, and the breathtaking view of Vitosha Mountain from the rooftop venue. 🍽️🗻

We are truly grateful for your continued support and participation in BABC events. Your presence contributes to the growth and success of our community. 🙏💼

Once again, thank you for being part of this unforgettable evening. We look forward to welcoming you to our future events as we continue to foster collaboration, networking, and mutual growth within the Bulgarian-Australian business community. 🌐✨

Stay connected, stay inspired, and let's create more amazing memories together! 🤝💪

On the 25th of May 2023, members and associates of the Bulgarian-Australian Business Council (BABC) gathered at Bar Me for an unforgettable evening of networking.

The gathering provided a platform for professionals from diverse industries to connect, exchange ideas, and forge meaningful relationships. It exemplified BABC's commitment to fostering collaboration and facilitating connections between Bulgarian and Australian businesses.

As BABC continues to grow, we extend a warm invitation to new members to join our dynamic community. Stay tuned for more exciting events and opportunities to come together and build a stronger business network.

BABC Holds Successful Meet and Drink Event 27th of April 2023

Last night, members and associates of the Bulgarian-Australian Business Council (BABC) gathered at Bar Me for a casual meet and drink event. Despite the lack of photos to capture the moment, the evening was a great success and enjoyed by all in attendance.

"It was truly wonderful to spend time with each and every one of you, and we hope you all had a great time," said the BABC board in a statement of gratitude to the participants.

The event provided an opportunity for members and associates to network and engage in conversations with like-minded professionals from various industries.

BABC holds regular events throughout the year to facilitate connections and foster collaboration between Bulgarian and Australian businesses. The council continues to welcome new members and looks forward to the next opportunity to gather with its community.

Australian Business in Europe (ABIE) heads in Luxembourg April 2023.

We are thrilled to share that the Australian Business in Europe (ABIE) heads recently gathered for a highly productive meeting in Luxembourg at the end of April 2023. The meeting served as an excellent platform to discuss various topics, including our network strategy, and showcased the remarkable collaboration among our 19 networks.

During this gathering, our ABIE heads engaged in insightful discussions about the ongoing efforts to strengthen business networking between Australia and Europe. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore new avenues for enhancing our collective impact.

We are immensely proud of the commitment and dedication demonstrated by our 19 networks, as they consistently work together to foster meaningful connections and facilitate business opportunities. Their collaboration is vital in promoting trade relations, expanding knowledge-sharing platforms, and supporting the growth of Australian businesses in Europe.

The meeting in Luxembourg not only reinforced the importance of these connections but also highlighted the positive outcomes that arise when diverse perspectives come together. By harnessing the collective expertise and experiences of our ABIE networks, we can drive impactful change and promote the interests of Australian businesses on the European stage.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the ABIE heads who participated in the meeting and contributed to the success of this gathering. Your commitment to advancing Australian-European business relations is truly commendable.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to nurturing our networks, fostering collaboration, and creating even more opportunities for business growth and development. Together, we can continue to build bridges between Australia and Europe and drive economic prosperity for all.

1st International Australian rules football tournament on March 4, 2023, in Sofia, Bulgaria,

AFL Bulgaria, in cooperation with Bulgarian-Australian Business Council, presents the 2023 International Australian rules football Tournament in Sofia.

4 Teams from 3 countries competed for The Cup With The Martenitsa. The one-day tournament has a similar format to the AFL Europe’s EURO Cup and Champions League and offered excellent pre-season experience for some of the top clubs in the continent.

The participating teams include the current AFL London runner-up Wandsworth Demons and the top Israeli side Tel Aviv Cheetahs.

The hosting country was represented by the newly formed Bulgarian Bombers.

New Member Announcement: Welcome Rodina-Haskovo Joint Stock Company to BABC!

We are excited to announce that Rodina-Haskovo Joint Stock Company has joined the Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) as our newest member.

With over 70 years of experience, Rodina-Haskovo is a leading manufacturer of machinery and equipment for the food, wine, brewing, and dairy industries. The company is renowned for providing customized production solutions and comprehensive technological services that cover every stage of a project—from initial design to commissioning, and through to warranty and post-warranty support.

Rodina-Haskovo adheres to the highest global standards in productivity, innovation, and quality. Their products are exported to over 20 countries worldwide, including Germany, France, Italy, and the UK. As they continue to grow, Rodina-Haskovo has identified Australia as a key region for expansion, particularly due to its agricultural potential and rich winemaking traditions.

Rodina-Haskovo is eager to connect with partners in Australia who can represent their interests in this promising market. We encourage our members to explore potential collaboration opportunities with Rodina-Haskovo.

For more information about Rodina-Haskovo, please visit their website at www.rodinahaskovo.com

Please join us in welcoming Rodina-Haskovo to the BABC community. We look forward to the valuable connections and collaborations that will emerge from their involvement with our network.

The admission to the Master's program "Economics and Management of Public Resources", Faculty of Economics of Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohriski", which attracts representatives of the state and local public administration, has started. It will help the exchange of knowledge and transfer of experience gained from our relations related to EU membership - public finances and the control of European funds, as well as presentation of the current institutional, legal framework and accumulated judicial practice.

See here: 

The program started in 2021 with a team of established experts from practice and academia. The leader is Associate Professor Dr. Savina Mihailova-Goleminova, and the coordinator is Ch. assistant Dr. Desislava Kalcheva. One of the main criteria for the development of both this and all new programs in the Faculty of Economics is the interest of employers. Representatives of the partner institutions are also members of the team of the "Economics and Management of Public Resources" program. The goal is to build bridges between theory and practice.

The master's program builds on the bachelor's degree in all majors from all professional fields and deepens the knowledge gained in the bachelor's degrees in economics, management and finance for student economists. A key focus is improving and building functional skills and building for work in the modern public finance system. The program is conducted entirely in Bulgarian, and the duration of the study is two semesters. Admission is for economists and non-economists, with non-economists attending three additional courses - microeconomics, macroeconomics and finance. The subjects studied are compulsory and optional. Among the mandatory disciplines are "Public Finance and Taxation", "Constitutional Foundations of State Power", "Development Planning and Territorial Planning", "Property Management in the Public Sphere", "Management of Public Procurement and Public-Private Partnerships" , "Economic Policy".

News Release: BABC Appointed as Co-Chair of ABIE, Collaborates with AFBA

1st of July 2024 – The Bulgaria Australian Business Council (BABC) is honored to announce our new leadership role within the Australian Business in Europe (ABIE) network. As of July 1, BABC has taken on the role of Co-Chair, alongside the Australia France Business Association (AFBA), who has commenced its term as Chair.

This marks a pivotal chapter in our mission to enhance Australia-Europe business relations. Our joint efforts aim to foster strategic partnerships and drive initiatives that will significantly benefit economic growth and development across both continents.

Support for AFBA: As AFBA steps into the Chair position, BABC extends its best wishes and offers full support. We are committed to assisting them in every way as they lead ABIE, confident that their leadership will bring forth innovative solutions and greater cooperation among members.

Looking Forward: The BABC team is enthusiastic about our collaboration with AFBA. We believe that together, we can achieve substantial progress, introducing new initiatives that will elevate the network to new heights. Our shared vision for the future includes enhancing business diplomacy, promoting economic development, and creating lasting impacts through international cooperation.

We invite all members and stakeholders to join us on this exciting journey as we work together to transform international business relations and achieve remarkable success.

Ambassador Alison Duncan's Visit to Bulgarian Parliament Strengthens Bilateral Ties

Sofia, January 25, 2024 - In a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic relations and collaboration between Bulgaria and Australia, Ambassador Alison Duncan, the Australian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania, visited the Bulgarian Parliament on January 25, 2024. During her visit, Ambassador Duncan had the honor of meeting with the parliamentary group for friendship with Australia.

The meeting was marked by discussions focused on strengthening the already robust ties between the two nations. Topics included exploring opportunities for increased economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and initiatives to foster a deeper understanding between the people of Bulgaria and Australia.

Ambassador Duncan's visit to the Bulgarian Parliament underscored the importance of diplomacy in promoting bilateral relations and forging partnerships in various fields. Her discussions with the parliamentary group highlighted the mutual interest in expanding collaboration and building a stronger foundation for the future.

The Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) played a pivotal role in facilitating this visit and continues to actively support initiatives aimed at strengthening the bonds between Bulgaria and Australia.

As both countries look ahead to a future of increased cooperation, Ambassador Alison Duncan's visit to the Bulgarian Parliament marks a significant milestone in the journey towards closer diplomatic and economic relations.

🌟 Honoring Excellence: Australian Ambassador, HE Ms Alison Duncan, Joins BABC as Honorary Board Member 🌟

We are thrilled to announce that Australian Ambassador, HE Ms Alison Duncan, has accepted our invitation to become an Honorary Board Member of the Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC). HE Ms Alison Duncan, a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our organization.

Ms Duncan's remarkable career has seen her serve overseas in Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Solomon Islands, contributing to her deep understanding of international relations. In her most recent role as Assistant Secretary of the Consular Communications and Policy Branch, she has demonstrated her commitment to diplomacy and public service.

Ms Duncan's decision to join our Honorary Board is a testament to her dedication to fostering strong relations between our nations. We are honored to welcome her to the BABC family, and we look forward to her valuable insights and contributions.

📣 Exciting News Announcement! 📣
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Ambassador-Designate Alison Duncan as the new Head of Mission for Australia! 🥳🌟 BABC extends a warm welcome! 🎉🌟

With her wealth of experience and expertise, Ambassador Duncan brings a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Bulgaria 🇧🇬 and Australia 🇦🇺.

Under Ambassador Duncan's leadership, we are confident in achieving significant milestones and fostering greater cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, culture, and more. Her vision and dedication will guide us towards building stronger ties and creating valuable opportunities for our members.

Stay tuned for updates on the exciting projects that lie ahead. Ambassador Duncan's vision and guidance will steer us towards success, and we can't wait to share our progress with all of you. 📈✨

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Ambassador-Designate Alison Duncan. 🤝💫

Australia and the European Union (EU) are making significant progress in their negotiations for an ambitious trade agreement.

The 15th round of negotiations was highly constructive, with several chapters provisionally closed, including Technical Barriers to Trade, Intellectual Property Rights (excluding Geographical Indications), Rules of Origin, Digital Trade, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, Sustainable Food Systems, Financial Services, and more. Outstanding issues include trade in sensitive agricultural products, services and investment, subsidies and state-owned enterprises, trade and sustainable development, and energy and resources. Both sides are actively working towards a win-win deal, with important discussions scheduled between EU Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis and Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell in early June.

For more details, please refer to the official reports from the EU and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

This update was kindly provided by European Australian Business Council (EABC)

"The Bulgarian-Australian Business Council and Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski forge a partnership to enhance academic exchange and foster the development of highly skilled professionals"

In a significant stride towards academic collaboration, the Bulgarian-Australian Business Council and the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" have recently inked a groundbreaking agreement. This partnership opens up a multitude of opportunities to nurture the training of highly qualified specialists through both short-term and long-term partnerships with esteemed higher education institutions in Australia and New Zealand.

The agreement encompasses a wide range of domains, including economics, management, finance, accounting, auditing, and the emerging field of big data analysis and modeling in business. Its primary objective is to augment theoretical knowledge and cultivate practical skills among students, empowering them for success in their professional journeys.

This pivotal agreement paves the way for enriching the curricula of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Real-world case studies and practical examples in the realm of foreign trade relations between Bulgaria and Australia, as well as New Zealand, will be integrated into the educational programs. By incorporating these practical insights, students will gain invaluable exposure to the dynamics of international business.

The partnership aims to provide students with immersive learning experiences by facilitating internships and lecture visits to higher education institutions in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, it seeks to offer career guidance and motivation to both lecturers and students of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. Within this collaborative framework, various activities such as joint lectures, specialized training sessions, round table discussions, conferences, and other engaging events will be organized. Moreover, the agreement will align with postgraduate qualification programs at Sofia University, fostering continuous professional development.

This transformative agreement between the Bulgarian-Australian Business Council and the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration opens up new academic horizons for students and lecturers alike, who possess a keen interest in the realms of finance and investment in Australia and New Zealand. It heralds a promising era of cross-cultural exchange and educational advancement.

Together, we embark on an exciting journey of knowledge sharing, innovation, and the development of skilled professionals who will contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of global business.

#BulgarianAustralianBusinessCouncil #SofiaUniversity #AcademicExchange #Partnership #HigherEducation #SkillsDevelopment #Finance #Investment #Australia #NewZealand

Donation to Sofia Zoo

On 17th of February 2024, Bulgarian Australian Business Council (BABC) members and friends visited Sofia Zoo to present a donation of 1040 BGN, a sum collected at the Australia Day Event, aimed at enhancing the exhibit featuring the rusty kangaroo. This contribution underscores our commitment to supporting local initiatives and fostering connections between Bulgarian and Australian communities. 🦘
During our visit, we had the opportunity to interact with various species of Australian fauna residing in Sofia Zoo, including the emu, Bennett's wallaby, laughing kookaburra, lorikeets, and cockatiels. Discussions flourished regarding potential collaborations to develop mixed exhibits featuring Australian animal species. These endeavors, once realized, are poised to enrich the educational experience of zoo visitors and deepen their appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts. 🐦🌿
The event also saw the presence of Ms. Nadezhda Bobcheva, Deputy Mayor for Green System, Ecology, and Land Use at Sofia Municipality, further highlighting the significance of this partnership between the BABC and Sofia Zoo. 🏛️
The timing of this benevolent gesture is particularly poignant, as it coincides with February 17th, recognized globally as Random Acts of Kindness Day. By choosing this day for our donation, we underscore our commitment to spreading kindness and making a positive impact on our community and beyond. 💫
In extending our thanks to Sofia Zoo, we, the BABC, reaffirm our dedication to fostering meaningful connections and contributing to the welfare of both local and international communities. 🤝

Marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Australia, the Bulgarian-Australian Business Council (BABC) hosted a momentous gathering in Sofia, bringing together diplomats and companies dedicated to fostering bilateral ties. The event witnessed the participation of esteemed members from the council, business representatives, officials from key ministries and directorates, as well as esteemed delegates from other chambers of commerce in Bulgaria.

The occasion, held in Sofia in 2022, served as a remarkable platform for dialogue and collaboration, highlighting the longstanding and evolving relationship between Bulgaria and Australia. With half a century of diplomatic ties, the event showcased the depth of cooperation and the shared commitment to further strengthen economic, cultural, and social connections.

Representatives from both countries exchanged insights, explored opportunities, and fostered new partnerships to drive mutual growth and prosperity. The gathering facilitated meaningful discussions on trade, investment, innovation, and cultural exchange, providing a fertile ground for collaboration between Bulgarian and Australian businesses.

As the Bulgarian-Australian Business Council, we are proud to have facilitated this momentous event that celebrates the milestones achieved in our bilateral relations. We remain steadfast in our dedication to nurturing and expanding these ties, creating avenues for mutual benefits and sustainable growth for both nations.

The Sofia event of 2022 will be remembered as a significant milestone in the ongoing journey of friendship and cooperation between Bulgaria and Australia. It serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of partnership and the shared vision of a prosperous future.

#BulgarianAustralianBusinessCouncil #50YearsOfDiplomaticRelations #Sofia2022 #FriendshipAndCooperation #BilateralTies #Trade #Investment #Innovation #CulturalExchange #MutualGrowth #Prosperity

 Sofia 2022

ABIEs - Meeting of Heads took place at the Australian Embassy in Paris on the 4th and 5th of November, reuniting ABIE leaders across Europe to explore the best strategies to better help Australian businesses thrive throughout Europe and beyond.

Australian Trade and Investment Commission General Manager for Europe, UK and Israel, Jennifer Mackinlay joined the Australian Business in Europe (ABIE) network to discuss how they are supporting European investors to tap into Australia’s booming sectors - like advanced tech and space – and help connect Australian exporters to new partners in Europe.

 Paris 2022

News and Events | Bulgarian Australian Business Council

Annual General Meeting 2023

Members Only