Export Awards turn 40 in 2003.

• Position: Australian Export Awards - Australian Export Awards

The Australian Export Awards have reached a significant milestone this year, with 2003 marking the event's 40th birthday.

The Awards have gone from strength to strength since their inception four decades ago, with its very longevity testament to its popularity within Australia's business community. The Australian Export Awards (AEA) recognise the nation's top exporters, and has become the leading industry event on the trade calendar.

Speaking at the 2003 Awards launch held in Brisbane at the start of this month, Federal Trade Minister Mark Valle said the Awards promoted the sector's achievers as role models for the general business community.

In an acknowledgement that tourism is now Australia's largest source of export revenue, the AEA will this year introduce a new category for tourism exporters. Valle said the tourism sector has grown at 19 per cent over the past five years, despite the uncertainties of the past year.

"While tourism-based exporters have previously won Export Awards in other categories, the addition of the National Tourism Award in 2003 marks the important role of tourism to Australia's export earnings," Vaile said. "The new award will be important in improving the Australian community's appreciation for tourism as a major export generator."

To enter the Australian Export Awards, companies must first enter awards in their relevant State or Territory event.

State and Territory winners then become finalists in the national awards to be held in December 2003.

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