G’Day USA 2017

On Friday 9 December 2016, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon Steve Ciobo MP and Qantas CEO Alan Joyce launched the 2017 G'Day USA program, the premiere public, cultural and economic diplomacy initiative promoting Australia in the United States.

Now in its 14th year, the program is being expanded with new events across the United States, including New York, Los Angeles and – for the first time in Austin, Texas - one of the world's largest economies, with growing trade and investment links with Australia.

At the launch, Minister Bishop announced the new G'Day USA Champions initiative, bringing together prominent individuals with the reach, experience and profile to help promote Australia in the United States.

One of the key events for the 2017 G'Day US program is the Gala being held in Los Angeles on 28 January presented by Qantas. The Gala will highlight Australia's highly talented creative industries across film, entertainment, the arts, music, fashion, food, wine and tourism.

The 2017 Gala will honour three Australians from the entertainment and creative industries. Ben Mendelsohn, Excellence in Film and Television Award; Catherine Martin, Lifetime Achievement in Film and Design Award; David Hill, Lifetime Achievement Award in Television and Entertainment.

In another milestone for 2017, G'Day USA will enter into a partnership with the Australia Recording Industry Association (ARIA) to showcase the talents of Australian recording artists and their music. Each year an ARIA Award winner will be selected to perform at the G'Day USA LA Gala, and bring our talented people to the attention of the American public. In 2017 this honour will go to ARIA award winner Vance Joy (James Keogh).

The United States is Australia's fourth largest source market for international visitors, worth more than $3.7 billion annually. As part of G'Day USA, Tourism Australia will use their program of events to showcase Australia to Americans, with a particular focus on premium Australian experiences.

Since its establishment in 2004, G'Day USA has grown to become an important platform for bilateral dialogue with the United States. The 2017 program will continue to promote and highlight bilateral cooperation across foreign policy, defence, innovation, the arts and pursue a strong economic diplomacy agenda by promoting Australia as an important trade and investment partner.