Politicians from both sides of the aisle acknowledge Greek business community for their contributions to the economic and cultural life of Western Australia.The contributions of the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia (HACCI WA) were celebrated at the WA’s parliament house.

On Tuesday, March 12, the HACCI WA event drew politicians from both sides of the aisle, including the state’s premier, Roger Cook. They all praised the Greek business community for contributing to the economic and cultural life of Western Australia.

The event was hosted by Michelle Roberts, the speaker of the legislative assembly, and Alanna Clohesy, the legislative council president; Roberts commended the Greek business community for “their dynamic role and significant contributions to the state’s diverse business ecosystem.”

Dr. Elena Limnios, the organisation’s president, said she was “excited and looking forward to a year of growth and prosperity for our Chamber in 2024”.

She then spoke about the chamber’s plans, which include collaborations with the HACCI National Federation “to fortify the bonds between HACCI members, the Chambers of Commerce in Greece, and the Greek Exporters Association.”

“The Hellenic National Federation plays a crucial role in amplifying the voice of the Hellenic business community in Australia,

“We are dedicated to leveraging this unified platform to foster better connections and growth opportunities for our members, both within Australia and in their business endeavours with Greece,” Dr. Limnios said.

The event was also addressed by HACCI WA Patron and consul of Greece in Perth, Georgia Karasiotou, who talked of the Diaspora’s role in shaping policies through feedback to the Greek government and the importance of postal voting in the upcoming European Parliament Elections.

There was a blessing of the traditional vasilopita by Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea, who represented Archbishop Makarios as a way of securing prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.

Other guests included various parliamentarians such as Minister Dr Tony Buti, deputy Premier Rita Saffioti, Margaret Quirk, Klara Andric, and Steve Thomas MLC.