23 September 2025
CPA Australia and the Australia India Business Council today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a sign of future collaboration to deepen professional and business ties between Australia and India.
The MoU signing ceremony took place at ECTA Unleashed – a one-day conference hosted by CPA Australia and the Australian (Sydney) chapter of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) exploring the opportunities created by the recent India-Australia free trade agreement.
Speakers included NSW Industry and Trade Minister Anoulack Chanthivong, Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, Orica CEO and Managing Director Sanjeev Gandhi, HSBC Chief Economist Paul Blaxham, Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon, and President Global Markets at HCL Tech, Swapan Johri. Senior representatives from Austrade, Export Finance Australia and India’s International Financial Services Centres Authority also addressed delegates.
The MoU was signed on behalf of CPA Australia by President and Chair of the Board, John Curtin Distinguished Professor Dale Pinto FCPA, and on behalf of
Australia India Business Council by National Chair, Mr Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM.
Prof. Pinto said the signing of the MoU acknowledges the shared objectives of the two organisations, including promoting the benefits of bilateral engagement.
“The focus on deepening professional and business ties between Australia and India is a priority for both CPA Australia and the Australia India Business Council,” he said.
“We’re very pleased to sign this MoU to formalise our intent for future collaboration through our policy and advocacy endeavours and thought leadership activities that support initiatives to enhance economic growth in Australia and India.”
The two organisations intend to collaborate on future research projects, joint events and seminars focused on finance, accounting and business leadership.
Mr Gupta said: “This MoU opens new opportunities for Australian and Indian businesses. With CPA Australia’s expertise and AIBC’s networks, we will drive
initiatives that support growth, innovation and stronger professional ties.”
Prof. Pinto said the ECTA Unleashed conference was a sign of further political and professional engagement between Australia and India, and CPA Australia and ICAI.
“We are very pleased to be able to connect CPA Australia and ICAI members, business leaders, policymakers and government agencies to gain practical insights on the Australian and Indian markets, explore cross-border opportunities and strengthen professional networks,” he said.
“The conference featured impressive keynote addresses from distinguished speakers and expert panel sessions on trade relations and the emerging opportunities between our two nations.
“Sincere thanks to ICAI and its Australian Board for collaborating on delivering a successful conference and to all attendees and guest speakers.”
About CPA Australia
CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 175,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at cpaaustralia.com.au