Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, has today reminded small exporters that there is still time to apply for a rebate for 50 per cent of export registration charges this financial year.
“The rebate is worth up to a maximum of $5000 to eligible exporters and is available in 2014–15, as part of the Coalition’s $15 million Package Assisting Small Exporters promised before the election and delivered in this year’s budget,” Mr Hogan said.
“This four year package is all about helping small exporters of meat, dairy, grain, horticulture, eggs and seafood products improve their competitiveness and profitability in the international marketplace. We more than most electorates have an abundance of smaller operators producing the finest export quality, who would most benefit from these rebates.
“Since this assistance package opened in August the Department of Agriculture has written to more than 2200 registered exporters inviting them to apply, and have already received 240 applications to date. However we want as many as possible from this region as this type of package does a lot of good for our communities in the short and long term”
Mr Hogan pointed out that Australia has a strong reputation for quality produce – a reputation built up over many years.
“We need to be developing niche markets alongside our traditional export commodities to increase returns to our farmers. We have to encourage participation from large and small exporters so our farmers can get the best return for their efforts in the international marketplace,” Mr Hogan said.
“Export establishments with an annual revenue of less than $10 million, and less than $20 million total revenue for domestic and export activities, will be eligible to apply for the registration rebate.”
“The rebate is an important part of the package that includes a fees and charges review of certification costs to ensure costs are fair to exporters – big and small.”
“The package also includes funds for projects designed to benefit small exporters in securing and maintaining market access overseas.”
“The application process itself is very straight forward and I would encourage exporters to look at the rebate eligibility criteria and to apply before applications close on 31 October 2014.”
For more information about the rebate, or to apply, visit daff.gov.au/biosecurity/export/package-assisting-small-exporters.
