Australia is home to more than 150 Swedish companies, collectively employing around 77,000 people nationwide, nearly 46,000 directly, with thousands more supported through local supply chains.
Sweden and Australia share a close bilateral relationship built on common values, innovation, and historical ties. This connection dates back to 1770, when botanist Daniel Solander became the first Swede to set foot in Australia. Since then, the bond between our countries has continued to deepen.
Swedish goods began reaching Australia as early as the late 1820s, arriving on British ships. By the 1890s, Sweden was exporting a growing range of products, including agricultural equipment, chemicals, telephone materials, glassware, machinery, matches, and electrical appliances.
These early exchanges marked the beginning of a long and meaningful alignment between Swedish engineering and Australia’s development.
Fast forward to 2026, and Sweden’s footprint in Australia has expanded significantly. With over 150 Swedish companies established ‘Down Under’, our countries have built a strong and mutually beneficial investment and trade relationship that continues to support economic security and innovation.
Swedish companies do more than operate here, they become part of the local fabric. Many invest locally, employ locally, manufacture locally, and grow together with Australia’s regions, industries, and communities.
Several Swedish companies have a long and proud history in Australia. Alfa Laval and Ericsson, for example, have operated in Australia for more than 100 years, contributing to industrial development and technological advancement.
IKEA, another globally recognised Swedish brand, opened its first Australian store in 1975. Today, it operates ten stores across the country, but Sweden’s furniture exports to Australia date back to 1842.
These examples will further expand as Australia recently finalised the free trade agreement negotiations with the European Union. The agreement, valued at around AUD 10 billion, will offer greater market access for Australian and European producers and connect businesses to a marketplace of 450 million consumers.
It will also create new opportunities for companies on both sides, including Swedish firms renowned for their innovative and climate‑friendly solutions. Many of these companies are already strengthening Australia’s capabilities in key sectors such as clean energy, electrified transport, mining technology, automation, professional services, and advanced manufacturing.
The Sweden–Australia partnership is built on the principle that real value, whether innovation, jobs, sustainability solutions, or research breakthroughs, is created when we build together.
Every day, the collaboration between Swedish companies and Australian partners demonstrates how long-term commitment can drive progress and prosperity.
