The Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry National Federation (HACCI NF) has announced the appointment of former Ambassador to the United States and cabinet minister, The Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO, as its inaugural Patron.
The appointment comes at a time when the Federation is sharpening its national footprint and enhancing its influence across Australia’s multicultural business ecosystem.
Mr Sinodinos is expected to bring strategic gravitas to the organisation’s next phase of growth, leveraging his experience in government, international diplomacy and commercial sectors.
As Patron, Mr Sinodinos will provide high-level guidance and public endorsement of the HACCI NF mission and vision, to connect Greek Australian enterprise across the country and abroad.
“We are honoured to have Arthur Sinodinos as the inaugural Patron of HACCI National Federation,” Dr Elena Limnios, Chair of the HACCI NF Council, said. “His leadership and international experience will help us further unify the Greek Australian business community and strengthen our voice nationally and abroad.”
HACCI NF is a coalition of the Hellenic Australian chambers across Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. With a remit to foster national cohesion and open global commercial channels, the Federation’s strategic agenda includes:
- Building a unified national Hellenic business community.
- Expanding bilateral trade and cultural ties with Greece via formal chamber partnerships.
- Delivering digital and in-person events with leading business voices.
- Supporting the establishment of new state-based HACCI chapters.
Mr Sinodinos joins the Federation at a critical inflection point as it looks to cement its role as a national leader in diaspora economic engagement, business advocacy, and international collaboration.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be asked to be HACCI’s inaugural patron,” Mr Sinodinos said.
“HACCI has rejuvenated in recent years under the energetic guidance of its impressive new leaders. There is much potential in the economic and trade relationship between Greece and Australia and HACCI has a vital role to play in realising that potential. I am keen to support those efforts through my networks and experience in politics, diplomacy and international trade and investment.”
Throughout his political career, Mr Sinodinos has been acknowledged as a voice of reason and an acute strategist. He is a champion for progress and growth, and an advocate for the role of business and entrepreneurship in cementing social cohesion and strengthening diplomatic relations.
Being one of the very few Greek Australians to rise through the ranks of federal politics, Mr Sinodinos was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia in 2008, in recognition of his service to politics through the executive function of government, to the development of economic policy and reform, and to the Greek community.
“This appointment comes at a pivotal time as we expand our reach and build deeper connections with Hellenic organisations globally. With Arthur’s support, we are confident we can elevate HACCI NF to new heights and ensure its sustainability for generations to come,” Dr Limnios said.