The second Australian Made Week has begun to boost Australian manufacturers and producers while also safeguarding them from pandemic-related access and supply challenges.
During Australian Made Week (6–12 June), shoppers and businesses are encouraged to seek out and purchase genuine Australian products bearing the trusted green-and-gold kangaroo logo.
The 2022 campaign builds on the success of the inaugural campaign last year, which inspired more than 70 per cent of Australians to prioritise local product purchases.
Ben Lazzaro, Chief Executive Officer of Australian Made, stated that Australian Made Week was an excellent opportunity to highlight the benefits of purchasing locally.
“The pandemic has really opened many people’s eyes to the importance of locally made products and how we can all play our part, including businesses, by prioritising Aussie products to help strengthen the economy,” Lazzaro said.
“Roy Morgan research shows that 93% of Australians believe it is important to build up local manufacturing to protect Australians from problems with the supply of products made overseas.
“When you buy Australian Made, you have a direct economic impact on the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Australians throughout the supply chain.
“Australian Made Week is also a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the interesting and inspiring people behind the 4,200-plus businesses that consider their Australian Made certification as a badge of honour.”
The Australian Made, Australian Grown (AMAG) logo can only be used on products registered with the non-profit Australian Made Campaign Limited. The logo’s rigorous set of criteria requires that it be used with one of five descriptors: ‘Australian Made,’ ‘Australian Grown,’ ‘Product of Australia,’ ‘Australian Seafood,’ or ‘Australian’ (for export use only).
‘Supporting local is more important than ever’
In the current economic situation, family-owned firms are more vulnerable than non-family-owned businesses. According to KPMG’s 2021 Family Business Survey, 67 per cent of all businesses in Australia are family-owned and operated, with family businesses employing more than half of the workforce.
Adam Liaw, a television chef, writer, lawyer, maker, business owner, and Australian Made Week Ambassador, believes it is more vital than ever to support Australian businesses and, as a result, the economy.
“COVID reminded all of us that we need to think and buy local – and move away from reliance on imported goods – if we’re going to have manufacturing self-sufficiency and reliable supply chains, ensuring we can obtain products we want when we want them,” he said.
“We are absolutely spoilt for choice in Australia as we have the best products in the world, manufactured and grown to the highest standards right here in our own backyard.
“Buying Australian Made comes with a feel-good factor as you’re making a socially, economically, and environmentally responsible choice with far-reaching benefits.
“I’m encouraging people to get involved in Australian Made Week by asking when they’re making purchases – whether it’s flowers, woks or socks – to go for Australian Made or Grown and make buying local a regular shopping habit for the other 51 weeks of the year.”
Ao Luu, CEO of Luus Industries, notes that the pandemic has been difficult, but family-owned firms are known for their endurance and resourcefulness in the face of hardship.
“Our family has been in the industry for over 20 years and is committed to supporting the growth of manufacturing in Melbourne and Australia,” Ao Luu explains.
“Luus has a workforce of 65 employees whose diverse skills and specialities range from engineering, steel fabricating and welding, to accounting, sales and marketing. We have so much capability and expertise in this country that we don’t want to lose due to overreliance on imported goods.
“When shoppers look for and buy, Australian Made they’re supporting the livelihood of local manufacturing, local businesses, local families and local communities.”
Where to buy Australian made?
Here’s a thorough guide to finding brands that manufacture their products locally, as well as where to buy them online and in stores.
Consumers can learn more about Australian Made Week and find genuine Aussie products at www.australianmadeweek.com.au.
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