Awards recognise export performance of Tassie businesses

Tasmanian businesses have just over three weeks to enter the prestigious Australian Export Awards, Australian Government Minister for Trade, Warren Truss said today.

The Awards recognise outstanding export success in 12 industry categories (seven at local level) and through the overall DHL Australian Exporter of the Year award.

Category winners of the 2007 Tasmanian Export Awardsprogress as finalists to compete alongside winners from other state and territory award programs in the national Australian Export Awards, in November.

Entries for the Tasmanian Export Awards close on 6 September.

Mr Truss said Australia’s exports topped a record $215 billion in 2006-07, with exports of manufacturing, resources and services reaching all-time highs.

“Major exports for Tasmania in 2005-06 were in the resources, seafood and agribusiness fields,” Mr Truss said.

“Tasmanian businesses are setting ever-higher benchmarks in export performance and excel in delivery to key overseas markets including China and India, two of its principal export markets alongside Hong Kong, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

“The Australian Export Awards celebrate the success of the many businesses that are driving Australia’s record-breaking export performance. Finalists in last year’s Awards generated more than $12.5 billion in export earnings and directly employed over 36,000 people.

“Australia’s export excellence is being achieved by businesses of all sizes and across all industries. I encourage Tasmanian businesses to enter the Awards so that we can recognise and celebrate your success,” Mr Truss said.

Last year, Tasmania was represented in the national awards by Red Kelly’s Gourmet Foods Pty Ltd; Australian Maritime College; Roar Film; JadeLiquid Software; ACL Bearing Company; Easy Fit Fencing Components; Powercom Systems; Lightning Protection International Pty Ltd; Fiomarine Industries Pty Limited; and World Heritage Cruises.

For details on how to enter visit www.exportawards.gov.au/apply-online before the 6 September deadline.

Media Inquiries: Minister Truss' office 02 6277 7420 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555