The Australian Made Campaign (AMCL) is urging Australians to support local manufacturers and producers as the United States imposes a minimum 10 per cent tariff on all Australian exports.
The development poses a challenge for Australia’s manufacturing sector, underscoring the importance of strengthening sovereign manufacturing and supply chain resilience, Australian Made stated in a news release.
Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro emphasised the role of consumers in supporting domestic industry, stating, “It’s never been more important to support our Aussie manufacturers, growers, and primary producers. These sectors have faced numerous challenges in recent times, and it has just become more challenging for some.”
He continued, “More than 90% of Australians have a preference for Australian-made products, so let’s turn that preference into purchases.”
AMCL has welcomed the Australian government’s response to the tariff imposition, including measures to bolster the nation’s anti-dumping regime and financial assistance for exporters seeking new markets.
The government’s ‘Buy Aussie’ policy for procurement and contracts has also been highlighted as a positive step towards reinforcing local industry.
“A strategic approach to ‘buy local’ initiatives, incorporating consumers, businesses and all levels of government is what is needed right now,” Lazzaro said.
“Improving government and business local procurement policies by prioritising Aussie makers will help alleviate the impact of tariffs while strengthening the economy and creating local jobs. Given that federal government contracts were estimated to be valued at $100 billion last financial year, a refocusing on Australian-made suppliers has the potential to have an enormous impact.”
Currently, AMCL stated that around 4,500 businesses are licensed to carry the Australian Made logo, covering a diverse range of goods.
These businesses represent approximately 40,000 jobs and generate a combined annual revenue of about $8 billion.
Lazzaro highlighted the high quality of locally made products, which adhere to Australia’s stringent manufacturing and safety standards.
“Local manufacturers are known for producing high-quality, premium products that meet Australia’s stringent manufacturing and safety standards. Additionally, these products offer demonstrable value for money over their product lifecycle,” he said.
“So, let’s make sure we look for the famous green and gold kangaroo when we shop and put Australia first.”
The Australian Made Campaign is encouraging businesses to prominently market their products with the Australian Made logo.
More information on applying for the Australian Made, Australian Grown logo is available at www.australianmade.com.au/apply.
Consumers and businesses looking for Australian-made products can visit www.australianmade.com.au/products, the world’s largest online directory of genuine Australian-made goods.
