Applications will close on June 13 for the 63rd Australian Export Awards, which this year introduces a new category to recognise the international success of First Nations businesses. The program continues to provide a platform for exporters from across the country to gain national recognition across 14 award categories, including those particularly relevant to regional, energy and resource sectors, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs).
The new First Nations Exporter Award is open to businesses that are majority First Nations-owned and have been exporting for at least three years, regardless of industry. It adds to the long-running national awards program that celebrates excellence in export across a diverse set of fields.
Regional and smaller businesses have long played a key role in Australia’s trade story and are encouraged to nominate. The Regional Exporter category is open to businesses based outside metropolitan centres, while the Small Business category focuses on firms with an annual turnover below A$10 million.
Exporters in the Resources and Energy category are also eligible to enter, including those involved in mining, energy supply, and associated technology and services. Other relevant categories include Agribusiness, Food and Beverages, Manufacturing and Advanced Materials, Sustainability and Green Economy, and Emerging Exporter for newer businesses with under three years in international markets.
Dr Paul Grimes, CEO of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), which runs the awards in partnership with state and territory agencies, said, “Australian exporters make a significant contribution to Australia’s economic prosperity.”
“One in four Australian jobs relies on trade so it’s important that their efforts are supported and their success recognised.”
State and territory finalists will be announced between August and October. These winners will go on to compete for the national titles, with all category winners considered for the Australian Exporter of the Year, to be named at the national ceremony in Parliament House on 26 November.
The program is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors. Categories also include Creative Industries, e-Commerce, International Health, Professional Services, and Technologies, among others.
President of Rising Sun Pictures, Jennie Zeiher, who accepted the top award last year, said, “Being recognised not only strengthens our reputation but also showcases the impact of our work on a global scale”.
In 2024, the 88 national finalists together earned over $7.8 billion through exports and employed more than 24,300 people.
The program is designed to help Australian exporters build networks, open doors to new markets and receive independent recognition. It also offers exposure to government and industry decision-makers through both the state-based and national awards process.
Applications are now open and close on 13 June 2025. Interested businesses can apply in one or more relevant categories through their state or territory export awards programs.
