Australia has appointed Tennealle O’Shannessy, Chief Executive Officer of IDP Education, as its new Business Champion for Cambodia, part of a broader push to strengthen economic engagement across Southeast Asia.
In her new role, O’Shannessy will focus on promoting trade and investment opportunities in Cambodia, building on Australia’s long-standing economic ties with the Kingdom.
Expanding Trade Through Education and Investment
The appointment falls under Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which identifies Cambodia as a key partner in sectors including education, agriculture, green energy, and infrastructure. The strategy emphasizes collaboration between governments and businesses to unlock two-way trade and investment opportunities.
O’Shannessy said she was honored to be selected, pointing to IDP Education’s decades-long presence in Cambodia. “Over the past three decades, IDP has seen first-hand the immense benefits that come from creating strong cultural and economic ties with Cambodia,” she noted.
Education as a Driver of Growth
Australia and Cambodia share particularly deep ties in education, with IDP contributing to Cambodia’s development for more than 30 years. The organization has provided international study placements, English-language training, and testing services such as IELTS to help build a skilled workforce ready for global opportunities.
“Through education and skills, we are helping shape Cambodia’s next generation of leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs,” O’Shannessy said.
Looking Ahead
As Business Champion, O’Shannessy is expected to leverage her experience leading a global education company to help Australian firms explore new opportunities in Cambodia’s fast-evolving economy. Officials said her role will support ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral ties and deliver shared prosperity for both countries.
