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What Export Incentives Exist In Australia?


Export incentives are programs or policies implemented by governments to encourage businesses to export their goods or services to other countries. In Australia, there are several export incentives available to help businesses expand their operations and increase their international competitiveness. Some of the most significant export incentives in Australia are:


  • Export Market Development Grants (EMDG): This is a financial assistance program provided by the Australian government to help small and medium-sized businesses with their export marketing efforts. Eligible businesses can receive up to 50% of their eligible export promotion expenses, up to a maximum of AUD 150,000 per year.

  • Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Australia has signed FTAs with many countries, including China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. These agreements provide tariff reductions or eliminations for certain goods and services, making it easier and cheaper for Australian businesses to export to these markets.

  • Export Finance Australia (EFA): EFA is a government agency that provides finance solutions to Australian businesses that export their goods and services. This includes finance for export-related working capital, export-related capital expenditure, and export-related investments.

  • Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentive: The R&D tax incentive provides tax offsets for eligible R&D activities conducted by Australian businesses. This incentive can help businesses to develop new products or processes that can be exported to other countries.

  • Australian Trusted Trader Program: This is a voluntary program that recognizes businesses with a secure supply chain and compliant trade practices. Trusted traders are eligible for a range of benefits, including streamlined customs clearance and reduced inspection times.


How To Qualify For Export Incentives In Australia:


The eligibility requirements for export incentives in Australia vary depending on the specific program or policy. However, there are some general criteria that businesses must meet to qualify for most export incentives. Here are some of the common requirements:


  1. Registered Australian Business Number (ABN): To be eligible for most export incentives, businesses must have a valid ABN.

  2. Export Sales: Businesses must be able to demonstrate that they have made export sales or have the potential to do so.

  3. Export Promotion: Many export incentives require businesses to demonstrate that they have undertaken export promotion activities, such as attending international trade shows or participating in marketing campaigns focussed on export.

  4. Australian Ownership: Some export incentives are only available to businesses that are majority-owned by Australian residents.

  5. Compliance with Regulations: Businesses must comply with relevant laws and regulations related to export, including customs and quarantine requirements.

  6. Financial Capacity: Some export incentives require businesses to demonstrate that they have the financial capacity to undertake export activities.


Are Your Products Eligible For Export Incentives In Australia?


The eligibility of products for export incentives in Australia can vary depending on the specific program or policy. However, most export incentives are available for a wide range of goods and services. Some examples of products that may be eligible for export incentives in Australia include:


  • Manufactured Goods: This includes goods that are manufactured or assembled in Australia, such as machinery, electronic equipment, and automotive parts.


  • Agriculture and Food Products: This includes primary produce such as meat, dairy, grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as processed food products such as packaged goods and beverages.


  • Minerals and Resources: This includes minerals such as coal, iron ore, and gold, as well as other resources such as natural gas and renewable energy.


  • Services: This includes a range of services such as education, tourism, financial services, and professional services.


What Are The Restrictions On Export Incentives in Australia?


While export incentives in Australia are designed to encourage businesses to expand their export markets and improve their international competitiveness, there are some restrictions and limitations to these incentives. Here are some of the common restrictions on export incentives in Australia:


  • Eligibility Criteria: As mentioned earlier, eligibility criteria vary for each export incentive program. Some programs have specific eligibility criteria based on the size of the business, the type of product or service, the destination country, or other factors.

  • Geographic Restrictions: Some export incentives are only available for exports to certain countries or regions. For example, some free trade agreements may only apply to certain countries or may have specific conditions that must be met.

  • Funding Limits: Many export incentive programs have limits on the amount of funding that businesses can receive. This may be based on the size of the business, the type of product or service, or the specific program guidelines.

  • Time Limits: Some export incentives may have time limits or deadlines for applications, funding, or other requirements.

  • Compliance Obligations: To be eligible for some export incentives, businesses may need to comply with certain regulations, standards, or other obligations related to exports. These may include customs requirements, environmental or labor standards, or other regulatory requirements.


It is important for businesses to carefully review the eligibility criteria and requirements for each export incentive program and to seek professional advice if necessary. By understanding the restrictions and limitations of these programs, businesses can better assess their options and determine the best course of action to improve their export competitiveness.


To determine which export incentives your business may be eligible for, it is recommended that you research the specific requirements of each program and seek professional advice if necessary. It is also important to note that some export incentives may have application deadlines or limits on the amount of funding available, so it is essential to stay up-to-date on program requirements and deadlines.


You can discuss your export requirements and receive competitive export quotes from our friendly freight forwarding team at Image International Freight, call +61 2 9773 1378 OR email sales@imageinternational.com.au.

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