G'Day USA 2016

Today I am pleased to launch the 2016 G'DAY USA program, the premier public and economic diplomacy program promoting Australia in the United States.

The 2016 program showcases Australia as an innovative, high growth and sophisticated economy.

The program provides an important platform for bilateral dialogue with the United States and will highlight cooperation in the Asia Pacific, defence industries and water and drought management.

One of the key events is the 2016 G'DAY USA Gala in Los Angeles, presented by Qantas on 28 January. It will highlight Australia's highly talented creative industries across film, entertainment, the arts, music, fashion, food, wine and tourism.

The 2016 Gala will honour Dr George Miller with a G'DAY USA Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Australian creative arts sector and acclaimed global success, particularly through the Mad Max franchise.

I am also pleased to announce that Mr Joel Edgerton will be honoured with the G'DAY USA Excellence in Film award in recognition of his critical success as a writer, actor and director, most recently with his film "The Gift".

Since its establishment in 2004, G'DAY USA has provided an important platform for bilateral dialogue with the United States. The 2016 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.