Recognition at last for Indigenous export business

By PETER ROWE

Australia’s First Nations export businesses are to be honoured at the Australian Export Awards from 2025, the Federal government announced at this year’s event on Wednesday evening.

The First Nations Exporter Award will feature alongside other existing categories, including Advanced Technologies; Agribusiness Food and Beverage; Creative Industries, Emerging Exporter; and Regional Exporter, among others.

Run by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), the Australian Export Awards partners with state and territory export award programs to showcase Australia’s most innovative and inspiring exporters across diverse sectors and markets.​

“Our Government is proud to celebrate the successes of Australia’s First Nations exporting business, and the significant benefits these businesses bring to their community, and the broader economy,” Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said.

“We look forward to welcoming more First Nations exporters at the Australian Export Awards next year, and encourage First Nations businesses across the country to get involved in this fantastic initiative.”

First Nations traders were our first exporters – from trading with Makassan seafarers from Indonesia for generations, to now exporting goods including native botanicals, art, design, cyber and clean energy solutions to world markets.

Running since 1963, the Australian Export Awards are one of Australia’s most prestigious and longest running business awards programs.

“I’m delighted that in 2025 we will be turning the spotlight on the entrepreneurial spirit of First Nations exporters and the outstanding contribution they are making to international trade,” Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said.

“First Nations businesses are making their mark in a broad range of industries, both domestically and abroad, and I welcome the creation of the new First Nations Exporter of the Year Award to celebrate and showcase their success and ambitious economic goals.