Croatia's moment on the world stage — and what it means for us here in Victoria

There is a quiet pride that runs through the Croatian diaspora right now, and I think it deserves to be spoken aloud.

Celebrating Croatia's Journey

In the span of just a few years, Croatia has completed a remarkable journey of international integration. EU membership in 2013, the Schengen zone and the euro in 2023, and now — at the final stage — imminent membership in the OECD, the club of the world's most developed economies. It is a country that has transformed itself profoundly in one generation. For those of us who carry Croatian heritage, that is something genuinely worth celebrating.

Economic Growth and Opportunities

Economically, the picture is strong. Croatia's GDP has nearly doubled since 2016 and is growing faster than both the EU and eurozone averages. Unemployment has fallen below 5%. Record tourism numbers were posted in 2025, with more than 21.6 million visitors. Croatian technology companies like Rimac and Infobip — the latter celebrating its 20th anniversary this year — are putting Croatia firmly on the global innovation map.

"From the first democratic elections to the OECD in 36 years — that's an entire career span." — Prime Minister Andrej Plenković

The Impact on the Victorian Croatian Community

For the Victorian Croatian community, this matters beyond national pride. A stronger, more internationally connected Croatia means more opportunity — for investment, for professional exchange, and for young Croatian Australians who may look to Croatia as a place to study, work, or build something. The double taxation agreement covered in our previous post is just one concrete example of how this growing relationship is creating real benefit for people in both countries.

Connecting Our Community

At the VCCC, our purpose is precisely to be the bridge that makes these opportunities accessible to our members and to the broader Victorian Croatian community. That means not just celebrating Croatia's success from afar, but actively connecting our community to it — through events, business networks, and programs that keep us informed and engaged.

Join Us

If you are not yet a member of the Chamber, I warmly invite you to join us at croatianchambervic.org. And if you are — thank you. It is your participation that makes this community worth belonging to.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, let’s embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. The connection between Croatia and its diaspora is stronger than ever. Together, we can foster growth, innovation, and collaboration.

Do skorog viđenja — until we see each other soon.