History of the Australian Export Awards

The major strength of the Export Awards over the years has been the diversity of its applicants and winners. Since the first national presentation ceremony in 1963 some 791 Australian businesses have won a national Australian Export Award.

The rich history of the Australian Export Awards demonstrates the breadth of Australia's capability and the ability to adapt and lead the way in many industry sectors around the world. Australian businesses every day are becoming more globally engaged and demonstrate creativity and innovation with a pragmatism unique to Australia.

Explore the history of the Australian Export awards through the digital timeline and the stories of some of the past winners who have helped shape Australia's international business community.

The 'Clever Country'

During the '60s, a healthy trade position was judged to be central to Australia's economic prosperity.
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Seeking new markets

The '70s was an era of high inflation, currency instability and sluggish growth.
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Reform and competitiveness

The '80s began with a recession and ended with a stock market crash and a second recession. In the years between, Australia experienced an economic boom.
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The New Economy

In the ‘90s, the composition of Australia's trade moved gradually away from manufacturing, with services emerging as a valuable export earner for Australia.
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Fighting spirit

The decade and the new millennium started with the Sydney Olympics, which saw goods and services exports grow strongly in 2000 and 2001.
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