KEEP SUPPORTING AUSSIE MADE
Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, today opened the new Australian Made Campaign Limited offices in Melbourne, saying that in these uncertain economic times it is important to support local business and buy Australian Made.
"The now famous Australian Made 'green and gold' triangle was originally commissioned in 1986 by the Hawke Labor Government. Twenty-two years later, it is now recognised by 98 per cent of Australians as the most trusted identifier for Australian products," Senator Carr said.
"It is not surprising that the logo is so well known – people always remember quality. When you buy Australian, you buy quality; it is as simple as that."
"I want Australia to remain a country that actually makes things, and I think the general public do too."
"The campaign's promotional activities are helping to enhance the competitiveness of Australian Made and Grown products in domestic markets and this is good news for Australian businesses," Senator Carr said.
Since 2004, the campaign has received funding to promote Australian Made, Australian Grown logo and the products carrying it in markets around the world. These will include the USA, Canada, the Middle East and Asia.
"Australia is a small market. If we want our industries to thrive – if we want to create more jobs and maintain our living standards – it is essential that we increase our presence in global markets," Senator Carr said.
"This is already happening – our manufacturing exports grew by 3.6 per cent last financial year – but it is critical that we maintain the momentum.
"Innovation is the key to making Australian industry more productive and competitive, and that includes innovative approaches to promoting what we make and grow.
"The Rudd Government applauds the efforts of the Australian Made Campaign to promote Australian products, and I wish it every success," Senator Carr said.
A copy of the Minister's speech can be viewed here.
Media contact: Patrick Pantano, Minister's Office, 0417 181 936