Austrade and CPA Australia team up to help Aussie exporters

Austrade media release

04 Dec 2006

Austrade and CPA Australia are to establish closer links to help Australian businesses enter and develop international markets and export opportunities. These links have been formalised by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the organisations.

CPA Australia and Austrade will extend their services to help the clients of both organisations and the wider Australian business community expand internationally by offering a range of jointly-developed professional and advisory services and support, market research and promotional activities.

The two organisations currently work together to promote exporting and international business opportunities through their global networks and have worked closely throughout Asia on initiatives including recently held seminars on doing business in China and India and a regular export discussion group with the Australian Institute of Export.

CPA Australia’s membership of 108,000 finance, accounting and business professionals in Australia and across the globe, together with Austrade’s presence in more than 140 overseas locations in more than 60 countries offers businesses access to a global network of export advisers.

Austrade Chief Executive Officer, Peter O’Byrne, said that working with CPA Australia will help both organisations promote awareness of the benefits of exporting to assist Australian businesses looking to expand into international markets.

“Austrade and CPA Australia will continue to collaborate on professional development, cooperative marketing and provide expanded services, support and information to Australian businesses through our global networks. The agreement acknowledges and highlights the important role CPA Australia members in Australia and overseas play in ensuring the long-term exporting success of Australian businesses,” Mr O’Byrne said.

CPA Australia Chief Executive, Geoff Rankin said it is crucial that Australian businesses are aware of what assistance is available to help them export their products or services.

“CPA Australia members play a vital role in the growth and ongoing profitability of SMEs in Australia.  This MOU will enhance their contribution and provide them with specialist knowledge and resources about exporting,” Mr Rankin said.

The agreement between Austrade and CPA Australia is a part of Austrade's Corporate Partnerships Program. Though this program the Australian Government agency joins together with private sector service providers on a non-exclusive basis to enhance understanding of exporting in the business community and extend services available to Australian businesses looking to grow internationally.

ENDS

Media contacts

Adam Blight (Austrade) 
Tel: 02 9390 2336 
Mob: 0412 890 599

Michelle Mueller (CPA Australia)
Tel: 03 9606 9965
Mob: 0419 394 375

For further news and information from the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) visit www.austrade.gov.au/mediacentre.