Africa represents one of the most significant economic opportunities of the 21st century, yet Australia's engagement remains constrained by outdated risk perceptions and a modest institutional presence. With two-way trade valued at $12.7 billion as of late 2024, considerable potential remains untapped across a continent of 54 distinct markets.

This submission recommends establishing an Africa Risk Differentiation and Priority Engagement Framework to signal opportunity and support private sector entry; expanding diplomatic presence in high-growth Francophone markets; leveraging the June 2025 AfCFTA Memorandum of Understanding to position Australia as a technical bridge for standards alignment; and coordinating education sector engagement to capture emerging demographic shifts.

Without strategic action, Australia risks challenges in maintaining competitive parity in critical minerals value chains and losing influence over the standards that will shape these markets for decades.