Judy Anderson, Vice President

Tell us about your connection to Indonesia

My strong connection to Indonesia goes back 15 years. It started while working for a large multinational corporate and I was asked to support a senior global team strengthen its Indonesian business. Travelling to Indonesia numerous times a year, utilising my business-focused government and policy expertise, I became immersed in understanding Indonesians, their country and the influence of their government in strengthening their country. This journey continues today through AIBC finding ways to strengthen ties and engagement to create opportunities for both our countries.

What is your "day job"?

A senior consultant to business about government policy, how political systems work and how to best engage with government. This highly complements AIBC’s engagement between business and government in key policy and regulatory issues. Understanding business and how it operates enables me to contribute to supporting it achieve its strategic objectives.

Do you speak Indonesian?

Not very well. I'm still on a learning curve – Duolingo is my friend!

Why are you a member of AIBC?

Because I firmly believe Australia and Indonesia as close neighbours are stronger together. We can learn and achieve so much as partners working towards the common goal of creating opportunities for improving the lives of our citizens.

In your experience with trade and investment between Australia and Indonesia - what advice do you have for someone contemplating starting up/expanding into Indonesia?

Look at Indonesia, see the opportunities in this large and vibrant society, learn about it, its culture, economy and aspirations. Start conversations with other Indonesian and Australian businesses and build partnerships. Engage with the Indonesian Embassy and Austrade, understand the risks, work on how they can be managed and be flexible and adapt as entry strategies are planned. Then go for it! The rewards are there!

What Australian govt policies and support do you consider to be particularly helpful in relation to trade between Australia and Indonesia.

Where to start! Australia and Indonesia have worked very hard to create extraordinary avenues including supporting programs for businesses to trade and invest between Australia and Indonesia. Engaging with Austrade and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the Embassy can help explore how to partner, where and what advantages the Indonesian governments are offering, through for example, special economic zones and Katalis. Understand where Australian businesses have opportunities through lower tariffs, and potential regulatory hurdles. Explore business partnerships seeking a ‘good fit’ and keep engaged with Austrade and the Embassy for support.

Are there policy areas that you think need to be reviewed?

Both Australia and Indonesia need to keep active in addressing what are called ‘behind the border’ barriers,
including particular regulations, professional recognition and making sure standards and training requirements are suitable.

What do you love most about Indonesia (just three things!)

There is only one. Indonesian people first and foremost, their optimism, willingness to engage across different cultures and adaptability. These are key traits Australians and Indonesians have in common, a foundation for great friendship and partnerships.