Our Origins
Established in 1977, AustCham Thailand was the first Australian chamber in the ASEAN region. From early beginnings as an Australian business group, the Chamber formalised links with Thai ministries, the Australian Embassy and Austrade—laying the foundations for a trusted bilateral business community.
Over time, the Chamber’s role expanded from networking and information-sharing to structured connection, advocacy and knowledge—supporting members to trade, invest and grow across the Australia–Thailand corridor.
Milestones & Highlights
Selected moments that shaped the Chamber
1977 – Foundation
Formally established as ASEAN’s first Australian chamber; first President: Adrian L. Gundlach.
1990s – Community Impact
Member-led community projects expand—education support and local initiatives near key historical sites.
2004–05 – TAFTA Era
Thailand–Australia Free Trade Agreement comes into effect (2005), lifting interest in bilateral trade and engagement.
Sundowners Grows
Monthly Sundowners becomes Thailand’s premier business networking series—drawing hundreds and expanding to regional hubs.
Regional Collaboration
Active in the wider AustCham ASEAN network to share insights and amplify advocacy across Southeast Asia.
Signature Events
Bangkok Sundowners is widely regarded as Thailand’s premier monthly networking event, routinely attracting large executive audiences and extending to the Eastern Seaboard and Phuket through the year. Beyond Sundowners, the Chamber delivers targeted briefings and joint-chamber activities aligned to member interests.
Advocacy & Committees
Through member committees and structured engagement with Thai and Australian stakeholders, the Chamber advances practical recommendations on the business environment—using member surveys, forums, roundtables and policy submissions. Advocacy activity has grown steadily, complementing programmes that translate strategy into outcomes for members.
Community Impact
AustCham’s community engagement has included support for education and heritage initiatives and a formal CSR program. Funds from marquee events and a portion of Sundowners ticket sales are pooled and distributed annually to causes connected to the Australia–Thailand community, as recommended by the CSR Committee and approved by the Board.
Regional Links
AustCham Thailand collaborates within the broader AustCham ASEAN network—sharing regional insights and coordinating advocacy on issues that affect Australian business across Southeast Asia.
Past Presidents
Explore the full list of Chamber leaders who have guided AustCham Thailand since 1977.
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