AU/NZ relationship a winner

The Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand have already held talks about creating a trans-Tasman ‘bubble’. Our success in curtailing the virus and the ability to return soon to something resembling normal is a testament to the swift action and decisive leadership both countries have shown in response to the COVID-19 crisis. 

ANZAC Day 2020 will be remembered not for the fact that we couldn’t attend dawn services and parades, but for the solidarity and pride shown by Kiwis and Aussies who remembered the fallen by Standing at Dawn/Lighting up the Dawn. The ANZAC ties and the strong sense of camaraderie between our two nations will stand us in good stead as we re-open our businesses and (in time) our borders to each other.

Recently I had the honour of hosting former Australian Prime Minister John Howard via video conference with key colleagues, customers and supply partners. John shared some insights gained from a long career in politics (he served as PM from 1996 to 2007) and said our trans-Tasman teams in Australia and New Zealand should feel reassured by the actions of both our governments. Although the steps taken on each side weren’t identical, he noted both nations made the critical decision to shut their borders early. The good results so far have set both countries up to be able to resume closer ties with each other. 

As a leader with teams in Australia and New Zealand, that is heartening news, and it also confirms something I have long thought: despite our rivalries in sport, the arts and business, our similarities, the humour and the ‘mateship’ that our two nations share, are the most important elements of our relationship.

John cautioned against panic over what the future holds, saying both New Zealand and Australia will continue to be desirable and attractive places to live, work, study and invest. His belief is that if the goal is to re-start the economy, business confidence is better than government spending, and that while short-term problem-solving is important, longer term decision-making is crucial. I am taking his advice on board by thinking about our organisational strengths and how to leverage them in the face of the hill we have ahead of us.

As an Aussie who has lived in New Zealand and who is a fan of both the All Blacks and Aussie Rules, I was able to share with the former PM what I see as OCS’ keys to success through this crisis: great people, fantastic customer support and amazing suppliers. This combination has put us ahead of the pack in terms of commitment, responsiveness and logistics. The fact that we operate strong teams across Australasia is another element that gives me optimism. 

I am thankful for the strength of character OCS teams in Australia and New Zealand have shown during the past few weeks and I am confident we can weather this storm together.