Securing opportunities for Australia's exporters

Federal Labor is committed to securing opportunities for Australia’s exporters. In an increasingly interconnected world we need a strong economy at home and a level playing field abroad.

At home, Federal Labor will continue to help build a strong economy, lift productivity and deliver high quality jobs for Australians.

We are building a modern economy, founded on low inflation, low interest rates, low unemployment rates, enhanced productivity, greater competitiveness and strong public finances.

Australia was the only major advanced economy to avoid recession during the Global Financial Crisis. The Federal Labor Government’s quick and decisive action helped avoid recession, saved jobs and stimulated economic growth.

As the Global Financial Crisis took hold, our immediate package of decisive fiscal measures supported domestic spending and confidence. Our economic stimulus sustained household spending, maintained confidence, supported construction, and supported investment.

Most importantly, our actions saved jobs. While unemployment rates skyrocketed in OECD countries, Australia experienced economic growth and our unemployment rate peaked much lower.

Internationally, Australia was at the forefront of efforts including in the G20 and APEC to guard against the emergence of protectionist trade policies in the midst and aftermath of the Global Financial Crisis.

Federal Labor’s actions at home and abroad have ensured that Australia’s overseas markets have remained open to our exporters.

Australia has just recorded its largest monthly trade surplus on record.

Australia is a great trading nation and the Gillard Labor Government intends to keep it that way.

Trade generates more and better paid jobs for Australians. Almost 2.5 million Australians have jobs because of international trade. As well, we are building an education system that provides the skills and capacities that Australian companies need to draw on to compete successfully around the globe.

Australia needs overseas markets. The international trading system has served Australia well, but it can be better.

That is why Federal Labor will continue to vigorously and energetically push for better market access for all Australian exporters– farmers, miners, manufacturers, and service providers