Australia’s Free Trade Benefits: Final Report Out
The Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth has completed its inquiry into the understanding and utilisation of benefits under free trade agreements.
Throughout the inquiry the Committee heard from experts about how to ensure businesses and communities can take advantage of trade opportunities. The Committee focussed on the extent to which small and medium sized enterprises, First Nations, and diaspora communities are able to engage with trade.
The Chair of the Committee, Mr Steve Georganas MP, said: “This inquiry highlighted the strength of Australia as a trading nation and the remarkable success that so many Australian businesses have had in making the most of the opportunities presented by international trade.
However, there is untapped potential. We must continue to ensure that more Australian businesses and communities are able to participate if we are to maximise the economic and social benefits of trade for all Australians.”
The Committee’s report makes thirteen recommendations to Government to boost access of Australian business to the benefits of trade, including by:
Throughout the inquiry, the Committee held public hearings in Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, and virtually, in addition to receiving 35 written submissions from businesses, industry groups and peak bodies, government agencies, community organisations, academics, and individuals.
The Committee would like to thank all those who have taken part in the inquiry by providing written submissions and giving evidence at public hearings.
The Committee’s final report can be found on the inquiry webpage alongside further information about the inquiry, including the terms of reference, published submissions, and public hearing transcripts.