19 February 2014 - Premier Barry Robert O’Farrell, head of government of the Australian state of New South Wales, is visiting the Philippines from February 19 to 20. This is the Premier’s first visit to the Philippines since his election in 2011.

New South Wales is Australia's business hub as well as its oldest and largest state. It is home to almost 50% of Filipinos living in Australia.

During his visit, Premier O’Farrell will meet with President Benigno S. Aquino III, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, as well as key business leaders, and private sector representatives to discuss political and economic cooperation as well as people-to-people exchanges.

Premier O’Farrell pledged AU$500,000 on behalf of the New South Wales Government for the relief and recovery of the victims of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). He was also instrumental in unveiling the statue of Dr. Jose Rizal in Campbelltown City, New South Wales, during the State Visit of President Aquino to Australia in October 2012. END