- The Crisafulli Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Japanese representatives to deliver the Japan-Australia Sports & Health Innovation Exchange (JASHIE).
- Developed in partnership with JA Network, Mizuno Corporation and Nakanoshima Qross, JASHIE aims to connect, grow and sustain an innovation ecosystem across both countries.
- The MOU will explore delivering the JASHIE program in Queensland as part of a two-year partnership.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a new partnership designed to accelerate innovation, strengthen international collaboration and unlock new opportunities for Queensland's sport and health industries.
The Crisafulli Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to be involved in the Japan-Australia Sports & Health Innovation Exchange (JASHIE), designed to support innovation advancement across sport and health for both countries.
Collaboration with JA Network, Mizuno Corporation and Nakanoshima Qross is expected to create positive outcomes in Queensland for elite and grassroots sport, events, sports management, health and wellbeing, and pathways for local startups.
The MOU will aim to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Queensland and Japan in sport and health innovation, as part of a two-year partnership, supporting startup development, technology transfer and investment partnerships.
It will focus specifically on the sport, health and business of sport sector including areas such as high-performance sport, competitive sport and training, participation and active lifestyle promotion, sleep science, mental health and wellness, and technology used in major events, stadiums and fan engagement.
The partnership may include access to investors, major sports and health organisations, government agencies, and research partners looking for new opportunities in both countries.
The Crisafulli Government is restoring Queensland's global reputation, after a decade of decline under Labor saw international collaboration and investment plummet.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the MOU aligned with the legacy being created through hosting the Games in 2032.
"The Crisafulli Government is delivering a Games to benefit all Queenslanders and creates a lasting legacy ahead of 2032 and beyond," Minister Mander said.
"Through initiatives like JASHIE, Queensland is building global partnerships with Japan that drive innovation, strengthen our sport and health industries, and deliver benefits for generations to come."
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the agreement would further enhance relationships between Queensland and Japan.
"Queensland is open for business, and initiatives such as JASHIE demonstrate this," Minister Bates said.
"We continue to strengthen our bilateral ties with Japan, ensuring we each benefit from the innovation, investment and opportunities on offer."
Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the agreement would be enormously positive for Queensland start-ups.
"Queensland's science and innovation ecosystem is driving solutions with global impact," Minister Powell said.
"Through JASHIE, we are connecting our innovators with Japanese partners to accelerate collaboration, commercialisation, and long-term growth."
JA Network Founder and CEO Cristina Merino Ishizuka said the MOU created an exciting future for all signatories.
"JASHIE was established to create a practical bridge between Australia and Japan in sport and health innovation," Ms Ishizuka said.
"This MOU formalises a shared commitment to building long-term, outcomes-driven collaboration.
"By combining Queensland's thriving innovation ecosystem with Japan's deep technological expertise and industry networks, we are creating new pathways for startups, researchers and corporates to scale internationally."
Mizuno Corporation Global President Akito Mizuno said combining expertise will create an extraordinary future.
"We are delighted to announce the conclusion of this agreement towards building a Japan - Australia innovation ecosystem," Mr Mizuno said.
"Through this collaboration, we are confident that by combining Japan's technological capabilities with the outstanding sporting culture fostered in Queensland, we can jointly create the next generation of the sports and healthcare industries.
Nakanoshima Qross, the Organization of Future Medicine, Director Dr Yoshiki Sawa said the collaboration would reap benefits for healthcare in both countries.
"This MOU provides an important opportunity to deepen the strategic partnership between Japan and Queensland and accelerate innovation at the intersection of sport and health," Dr Sawa said.
"We expect this partnership to generate new research and industry opportunities and contribute to addressing global health challenges."
