Celebrating First Nations exporters

Australia’s First Nations traders were our first exporters – from trading with Makassan seafarers from Indonesia for generations, to now exporting goods including native botanicals, art, design, cyber and clean energy solutions to world markets. 

Last night in recognition of this long history, the Albanese Labor Government announced a new award category in the Australian Export Awards, starting in 2025, to celebrate the outstanding international success of our First Nations businesses.

The First Nations Exporter Award will recognise the growing number of First Nations exporters and their economic, social and cultural impact.

While many successful First Nations businesses have been recognised over the years through at the Export Awards, this new category, which has unanimous endorsement from the states and territories, will encourage more First Nations businesses to export their goods and services. 

Run by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), the Australian Export Awards partners with state and territory export award programs to showcase Australia's most innovative and inspiring exporters across diverse sectors and markets.​

The First Nations Exporter Award will feature alongside other existing categories, including Advanced Technologies; Agribusiness Food and Beverage; Creative Industries, Emerging Exporter; and Regional Exporter, among others.

Running since 1963, the Australian Export Awards are one of Australia’s most prestigious and longest running business awards programs.

For more information, visit Australian Export Awards.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell:

"Our Government is proud to celebrate the successes of Australia’s First Nations exporting business, and the significant benefits these businesses bring to their community, and the broader economy.

"We look forward to welcoming more First Nations exporters at the Australian Export Awards next year, and encourage First Nations businesses across the country to get involved in this fantastic initiative."

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy:

"First Nations businesses are making their mark in a broad range of industries, both domestically and abroad, and I welcome the creation of the new First Nations Exporter of the Year Award to celebrate and showcase their success and ambitious economic goals.

"I’m delighted that in 2025 we will be turning the spotlight on the entrepreneurial spirit of First Nations exporters and the outstanding contribution they are making to international trade."