Media Release
29 October, 2009
Australian Export Award finalists winning on the world stage
Minister for Trade, Simon Crean, today congratulated the 77 finalists in the 47th Australian Export Awards – the prestigious business program that recognises exporting excellence.
Mr Crean said all of the finalists had been recognised at the state and territory level and were now competing against the best across the country.
“This group of exporters earned more than $10 billion in exports and employed more than 30,000 people last year. That represents a significant contribution to our economy and these companies should be congratulated for all their hard work and commitment.”
“The Australian Export Awards is an important program that not only raises awareness of the importance of international trade, but also helps build our business brand overseas.”
“Export Award winners emerge from a range of industries and backgrounds Australia-wide, from small family-run businesses in rural towns to big brands with household names.”
“This year, the Awards will recognise outstanding companies in 12 categories and one of these winners will also receive the highest exporting accolade possible: selected as the Prime Minister’s Australian Exporter of the Year.”
“It is heartening to see the diversity of this year’s finalists. From traditional agribusiness producers of livestock, grain and cotton to services such as tourism and healthcare. We also have representatives from the clean energy industry, with solar and wind products.”
“The government continues to support Australian companies doing business overseas, through strategic trade policies and investing in our skills and infrastructure.”
“My congratulations go to all the finalists. I look forward to seeing you in Canberra next month for the National Award Ceremony when we will recognise and celebrate your exporting achievements. You are an inspiring example to other Australian companies,” Mr Crean said.
The national export award winners in 12 industry categories, as well as the Prime Minister’s Australian Exporter of the Year, will be announced on Friday, 20 November at Parliament House, Canberra.
Now in its 47th year, the Australian Export Awards program is co-presented by Austrade and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI). The Awards are run in collaboration with the States and Territories, who each conduct their own Export Awards program. State and Territory winners progress to the Australian Export Awards as finalists.
For more information about the Australian Export Awards, including a full list of finalists visit: www.exportawards.gov.au.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Mr Crean’s office, Clinton Porteous (02) 6277 7420
Austrade, Rebecca Glenn Tel: 13 28 78