Small businesses thrive amid rush to buy Australian Made  

| May 25, 2021

Small and family businesses are benefiting from a significant boost in consumer sentiment, with new research revealing 93 per cent of Aussies prefer to buy products made in Australia.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson says while small businesses have faced more than their fair share of challenges in the past 12 months, the consumer-led rush for Australian made products has been a welcome unintended consequence of the pandemic.

“It’s fantastic to see this wave of support for Australian Made products, which is directly energising our small and family enterprises,” Mr Billson says.

“Roy Morgan research released by the Australian Made Campaign estimates if every household spent an extra $10 per week on Australian Made products, an additional $5 billion would be generated in our economy over the year, creating 11,000 new jobs.

“That’s why this Australian Made Week (24-30 May) is a great time to support a small or family business by spending locally.”

Australian Made Ambassador Elyse Knowles said she had enjoyed seeing the wide range of genuine Australian Made goods in the lead-up to the week, and meeting fellow entrepreneurs passionate about encouraging people to make the switch to ‘Australian Made’.

Elyse and partner Josh Barker started an Australian building and construction business called J&E Projects in 2018. She said $10 was a small price to pay to help support local makers and growers.

“Working with our local communities, farmers and growers is something I am so passionate about. Shopping daily with local vendors for fresh produce and household supplies is such a simple task but the value it brings to the lives of our fellow Aussies is pretty incredible,” Ms Knowles said.

“Josh and I are constantly changing our building processes to ensure we incorporate as many Australian products as possible.

“The premium quality we come across day after day continues to amaze us. There are so many talented people in our country – to champion their skills, creativity, work ethic and products is a rewarding way to do business.

“Business has been challenging for many throughout the pandemic. If we can all make an extra effort to keep an eye out for the iconic green and gold Australian Made logo, the benefits will be huge for everyone.”

Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro said Australian Made Week was a great time to focus on the benefits of buying local.

“When you buy Australian Made, not only are you getting products made to some of the highest standards in the world, you create jobs, now and into the future, and support thousands of Australians throughout the supply chain. Australian Made Week is a great opportunity to celebrate all the great things we make and grow, and commit to reassessing our shopping habits and prioritising Aussie products,” Mr Lazzaro said.

Search for Australian Made products by visiting australianmade.com.au.

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