Go Communications expands reach into Australia

Go Group, the consultancy network headquartered at Malaysia's Go Communications, has added Australian strategic communications firm, Banksia, into its fold of affiliated agencies. 

The expansion into Australia, marks a pivotal moment for Go Group as it solidifies its position as one of the largest networks of independent agencies in the world, said the release. 

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The inclusion of Banksia into the group also cements the network's commitment to foster collaboration and cross-pollination of skillsets within the global communications industry. This includes public relations, crisis communications and public affairs to total branding. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Banksia to the GO Group family of agencies," said Peter de Kretser (pictured left), chairman of the GO Group and an Australian native himself. "Its outstanding expertise, especially in public affairs, and its track record of achieving transformative outcomes will undoubtedly enrich our network's capabilities.”

Banksia is helmed by founder and director Steve Michelsen (pictured right) and has established itself as frontrunner in providing decisive counsel, executing high-impact communications strategies at the intersections of policy, politics, and public affairs.

“This collaboration signifies an exciting synergy between our agencies that will propel the group towards even greater success. I am especially proud to be working together with Michelsen, not only because we’ve known each other for many years, but the value that he and his team of highly competent associates bring to the GO Group is truly second to none," added de Kretser.

"The agency's combined extensive experience, particularly in public affairs, adds a strategic component to the GO Group." 

Michelson said in a statement, “We are buoyed by the opportunity to join the GO Group and are humbled by chairman Peter de Krester’s interest in our specialised services."

“Until now, our team has focused on driving strategic results for Australian businesses and organisations determined to deliver a positive social impact across key industries. Joining the GO Group connects us to a network of specialist agencies and opens the door to international partnerships for the benefit of the Group’s existing and prospective clients," added Michelson. 

Prior to expanding into Australia with Banksia, Go Group's network's include a roster of agencies across markets such as China, Japan, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. 

The strategic collaboration between the GO Group and Banksia also capitalises on the dynamic and interconnected nature of today's global landscape, said de Kretser, as it comes hot on the heels of the ASEAN-Australia Summit celebrating 50 years of partnership together with Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, Australian Prime Minister, Hon Anthony Albanese and a host of other nation leaders.

"The GO Group has crossed the great divide to echo country leader sentiments on bridging the business gap between Asia and Australia,” added de Kretser.

With a specific focus on sectors such as property development and education, he added that this alliance will lay a solid foundation for future ventures and sets the stage for continued exploration and growth.

This expansion comes after Go Communications hit multiple milestones within the year of 2023. This includes launching Tesla into the Malaysian market.

Back in July 2023, Tesla Malaysia appointed GO Communications to handle its PR duties as it officially enters market. GO Communications spearheaded the launch of the EV (electric vehicle) brand at the Pavilion in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, Secret Recipe Malaysia had also brought on board GO Communications to handle its integrated PR and communications duties in March 2023. 

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