Australian exporters - it’s your time to shine

Australia's 52,000 exporters are invited to nominate for the Australian Export Awards to celebrate their contribution to our record exports and strongest ever trade surplus.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and investment Simon Birmingham said nominations for the 57th Australian Export Awards were now open.

"Australian exporters are now making annual sales in excess of $438 billion, fuelled by trade agreements that give better access to markets across our booming region," Minister Birmingham said.

"Exporters make an enormous contribution to our nation's economy and it's important to recognise their efforts, whilst at the same time encouraging more Australian businesses to expand their reach into the global marketplace.

"These awards are testament to the achievements of the many Australian businesses who have dared to follow their dreams and expand their markets across the globe in the true spirit of entrepreneurialism.

"Analysis shows that the benefits of exporting are shared, with Australian businesses who export hiring 23 per cent more staff, paying 11 per cent higher wages, and having labour productivity that is 13 per cent higher than non-exporting businesses.

"Australia now has over 52,000 businesses that export overseas. Australian exporters span across all sectors of our economy, from honey producers to online fashion labels, biotech providers or services companies sharing our specialist mining sector skills.

"I urge Australian exporters to consider entering this years' awards, not just to share their stories of success but to inspire the thousands of other Australian small businesses out there who may be considering going global.

The 2018 Australian Exporters of the Year, SEAPA of South Australia, and Aspen Medical of the ACT, said their award gave their team "deserved recognition" for their outstanding work, and lifted the profile of their businesses.

Katina Law, Managing Director of Dutjahn Sandalwood Oils of Western Australia, winner of last year's inaugural Emerging Exporter category, said the award was "the culmination of a dream" by Dutjahn's indigenous founders and would help the company increase its sales of Australian sandalwood oil to the global perfume market.

The Awards will be initially judged at the state and territory level with winners announced during September and October, progressing to the National Awards Ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra on 3 December.

This year, there are 13 national awards categories: Agribusiness, Food and Beverages; Professional Services; Creative Industries; Technology and Innovation; E-commerce; International Educating and Training; Emerging Exporter; Sustainability; International Health; Manufacturing and Advanced Materials; Minerals, Energy and Related Services; Regional Exporter; and Small Business.

The 57th Australian Export Awards will be co-presented by Austrade and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and supported by a number of corporate sponsors.

For further information on how to enter the 57th Australian Export Awards, please visit: www.exportawards.gov.au