Australian Consulate General

Short description

The Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) is a statutory agency within the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, established by the Australian Trade Commission Act 1985. Austrade’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Peter O'Byrne reports directly to the Minister for Trade. To clarify the Government's expectations for Austrade the Minister for Trade issues a Statement of Expectations on an annual basis. To demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to the expectations of the Minister, the CEO replies with a Statement of Intent. The Statement of Intent outlines how the CEO intends to meet the expectations of the Minister and complements the longer term planning that Austrade undertakes. Austrade’s mission is to contribute to community wealth by helping more Australians succeed in export and international business by providing advice, market intelligence and support to Australian companies to reduce the time, cost and risk involved in selecting, entering and developing international markets. In addition Austrade provides advice and guidance on overseas investment and joint venture opportunities. Austrade also administers the Export Market Development Grants scheme which provides financial assistance to eligible businesses through partial reimbursement of the costs of specified export promotion activities. Austrade is represented in around 140 overseas locations in over 60 countries and in Australia. Austrade's domestic network comprises 18 Austrade offices and 54 TradeStart offices including 8 Export Hubs.