About Us
Who We Are
The Australian American Chamber of Commerce Pacific Northwest (AACC PNW) is based in the state of Washington. It was founded in 2022, rebranding from the existing Australian New Zealand American Society (ANZAS).
The organization aims to cater to Australian expats through social events, and will also be looking to grow business and economic relations between Australia and the Pacific Northwest. AACC PNW is incorporated in Washington State as a not-for-profit corporation.
AACC PNW is managed by a voluntary board of directors, and although it functions independently of the Australian Government, it enjoys the patronage and support of the Australian Consulate in San Francisco.
Our History
The Australia New Zealand America Society (ANZAS) was founded over 40 years ago by a small group of individuals, to provide a forum for people from the three nations with likeminded interests and a desire to enrich business and cultural exchanges. ANZAS hosted luncheons, dinners, member meetings, and other engagements in celebration of specific national events and interests.
In the 1990s, ANZAS became a volunteer organization, reducing government interactions and focusing primarily on social events.
In 2022, volunteers decided to disband ANZAS but incorporate its rich heritage back into a not-for-profit chamber of commerce organization, as part of the national Australian American Chamber of Commerce (AACC), in association with other chapters nationally. This became the AACC Pacific Northwest.
AACC PNW still maintains close ties with New Zealand organizations in Washington, but with a stronger and more collaborative bond with other Australian associations in the US.
Our Mission
The Australian American Chamber of Commerce is made up of individuals from all over the world representing companies from across a variety of industries including oil & gas, renewable energy, healthcare, government, real estate, finance, logistics, hospitality, travel, sports, and more.
We are committed to fostering business relations between Australia and the United States, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and enhancing the quality of life of Australian expatriates who live and work in the US. In light of AACC’s mission, the chamber arranges a wide range of programs and events throughout the year that focus on the close relationship between Australia and the US including business speaker events, conferences, networking events, cultural events, family gatherings, and collaborative events with our sponsors and partner organizations.
These events, and all of the AACC events held throughout the year, could not take place without the generous support of our sponsors, volunteers and committee members who spend countless hours making them a success.
What We Offer
A pre-eminent social hub in greater Washington for Australians abroad, celebrating social events and occasions, such as Australia Day and ANZAC Day;
A forum for the discussion of US-Australian trade and investment and understanding of related opportunities;
A networking vehicle for Australians and Americans;
Meetings with speakers of interest to the Australian-American business community;
Access to the chamber’s extensive membership directory;
A means for contributing to improved understanding and goodwill between Australia and the United States.
