Introduction

The G-20 is an informal forum which promotes an open and constructive dialogue between finance ministers and central bank governors from systemically significant industrial and emerging market economies. Representing around two-thirds of the world’s population and 90 per cent of world gross domestic product, the G-20 is uniquely placed to tackle issues of significance for the international economy and monetary system. In 2006 the G-20 is being hosted by Australia. Official website

G20 Mandate

To promote dialogue and analysis. By contributing to the strengthening of the international financial architecture and providing opportunities for dialogue on national policies, international co-operation, and international economic and financial institutions, the G-20 helps to support growth and development across the globe.

G20 Membership

The members of the G-20 are the finance ministers and central bank governors of 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea,Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. The European Union is also a member, represented by the rotating Council presidency and the European Central Bank. To ensure global economic fora and institutions work together, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the President of the World Bank, plus the chairs of the International Monetary and Financial Committee and Development Committee of the IMF and World Bank, also participate in G-20 meetings on an ex-officio basis.

The G-20 thus brings together important industrial and emerging-market countries from all regions of the world. Together, member countries represent around 90 per cent of global gross national product, 80 per cent of world trade (including EU intra-trade) as well as two-thirds of the world's population. The G-20's economic weight and broad membership gives it a high degree of legitimacy and influence over the management of the global economy and financial system. Membership

2006 Programme

The theme for Australia's host year is ‘Building and Sustaining Prosperity’. The 2006 work programme under this theme is suited to the G-20's distinctive role as a representative and effective international forum, whose workable size and consensus nature complements the activities of other international groupings and organisations.

Working closely with our colleagues, Australia will look to further the G-20’s valuable work by continuing discussion on the reform of Bretton Woods Institutions and the profound implications of demographic change. The work programme this year also includes assessment of changes in energy and resource commodities markets. Agenda