Australian Industry Group has been selected to join the Federal Government's newly established Trade Diversification Network (TDN), a key initiative designed to help Australian businesses expand into new export markets and build resilience in the face of global trade volatility.
The TDN forms part of the Government's Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI), a two-year program that will see Austrade partner with national peak industry bodies to deliver targeted support for Australian exporters seeking to diversify their international markets.
Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Innes Willox welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with Austrade to support exporters across the country.
"Trade volatility isn't going away. The tariff tensions, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty we're seeing globally mean Australian exporters can't afford to put all their eggs in one basket. Market diversification isn't optional anymore – it's essential for survival," Mr Willox said.
"Australian Industry Group represents exporting businesses across diverse sectors in the Australian economy. Through the Trade Diversification Network, we'll work with Austrade to deliver programs that help exporters navigate changing trade conditions and expand into new territories.
"Every exporter who successfully diversifies into a new market doesn't just secure their own business – they're creating jobs, strengthening supply chains and building Australia's economic resilience. The multiplier effect of getting this right is significant."
Trade and Tourism Minister Senator the Hon Don Farrell announced the TDN membership today, highlighting the importance of helping Australian exporters access new and emerging partners in regions including the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and noting that government-industry collaboration is essential to seeing Australian businesses diversify, grow and build resilience.
As part of the TDN, Australian Industry Group will work with Austrade to develop a Trade Diversification Plan focusing on emerging markets in Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
"We bring more than 30 years of experience delivering government-funded export programs, and we'll leverage this expertise alongside our international partnerships to connect Australian exporters with real opportunities in high-growth markets," Mr Willox said.
