The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Melbourne hosted a reception on 9 October to celebrate the 115th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan), welcoming more than 200 guests from Australia’s political, business, academic, cultural and Taiwanese communities. More than half of those attending represented Australia’s government, business and academic sectors, reflecting the growing depth of bilateral engagement.
In his remarks, Director-General Ray Ming-Tse Lu highlighted Taiwan’s expanding presence in Australian society, from cultural and community engagement to stronger partnerships in government, industry, academia and scientific research.
“Taiwan is not simply a security issue. Taiwan is a practical partner for Australia,” he said.
Reflecting on recent achievements, Director-General Lu highlighted Taiwanese cultural festivals across Melbourne, film screenings at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), and the Taiwan Night Market in Colac, which attracted nearly 4,000 visitors.
TECO Melbourne has also strengthened engagement across Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania through initiatives including the Taiwan Showcase at the Victorian Parliament, expanded political and business connections in South Australia, the establishment of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce in South Australia, and growing academic and scientific cooperation with Tasmania.
Director-General Lu emphasised the complementary strengths of the two economies. Taiwan accounts for more than 90 per cent of global AI server production and plays a critical role in semiconductor supply chains, while Australia is a major supplier of energy and natural resources to Taiwan. Closer cooperation supports economic growth and supply chain resilience for both partners.
Addressing Taiwan’s history and international status, Director-General Lu referred to three key historical markers: 1911, 1949 and United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758.
He explained that Resolution 2758 addressed China’s representation at the United Nations. It did not determine Taiwan’s sovereignty or authorise the People’s Republic of China to represent Taiwan. He reaffirmed that the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other, and that Taiwan’s 23 million people have the right to determine their own future.
“History matters, but Taiwan’s future belongs to the people of Taiwan,” he said.
Director-General Lu stressed that Taiwan respects the policies and national interests of its international partners and seeks to be recognised through its actions and contributions.
“See Taiwan clearly. Treat Taiwan fairly.”
He reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and to practical cooperation with Australia and other like-minded partners.
Reflecting on more than two decades in diplomacy, Director-General Lu said, “Trust cannot be demanded. It has to be earned.”
He thanked Australia’s political, business, academic and community leaders for their friendship and cooperation, as well as Taiwanese Australians for their longstanding contributions to Australian society. He concluded with a simple message: “Taiwan is not alone.”
TECO Melbourne will continue working with government, industry, academia and community partners to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, education, research and people-to-people exchanges.
The reception also featured Taiwan’s 2026 National Day video, The Nation’s Photo Album, celebrating Taiwan’s people, shared memories and democratic journey.
Distinguished guests included Natalie Hutchins, Chair of the Victorian Parliamentary Friends of Taiwan; Brad Rowswell, Co-Chair; Victorian Legislative Council Member Renee Heath; Whitehorse Mayor Kirsten Langford; and Colac Otway Mayor Jason Schram.
Representatives of Senator James Paterson, Federal MP Cassandra Fernando and Victorian MP Kat Theophanous also attended, alongside Taiwanese community leaders and representatives.
