Man-of-the-hour and Federal Trade Minister Simon Birmingham this week showed that when it comes to Australia’s trade relationship with China, a steady as she goes approach will navigate the country through uncertain times.

Speaking at the Rural Press Club’s Webinar hosted by the SAS Group yesterday, Senator Birmingham told journalists and industry representatives that Australia remains committed to a mutually beneficial trading relationship with China despite recent tensions.

"We should always be mindful that trade benefits that flow between China and Australia are mutually beneficial," Senator Birmingham said.

The Rural Press Club event was the second major engagement by an Australian Government Federal Minister at an SAS Group-organised event that week.

Resources Minister Keith Pitt was hosted by the Queensland Resources Media Club at an SAS Group-staged Webinar on Monday in what was the Minister’s first major speaking engagement since his appointment last February.

The events attracted more than 500 registrations with large numbers of journalists from around the country participating in the Q and A format.

Minister Pitt pointed out the critical role the sector will play in Australia’s and Queensland’s economic recovery.

“Resources development provides multi‑generational employment, and wealth to the nation and our regional communities,’’ the Minister said. “A pipeline of resources projects today will mean new mines for tomorrow, and that will mean more jobs and growth.

The Australian Government will continue to support new resources development and open up new basins.’’

The Rural Press Club of Queensland's webinar with Senator the Hon. Simon Birmingham, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment.

Resources Media Club's webinar with the Hon. Keith Pitt MP, Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia.