Local Export Training for CQ Businesses

Local businesses are getting the opportunity to take their products and services to the world thanks to a series of workshop being offered by Trade Queensland.

Deputy Premier and Acting Minister for Trade Paul Lucas said that Trade Queensland’s Getting Export Smart program would provide practical, hands-on training for Emerald and Central Queensland companies, with experienced industry and government export advisors facilitating the workshops.

“Exporting is a vital contributor to Queensland's economy, with merchandise exports last year worth more than $35.4 billion,” Mr Lucas said. “Service exports from Queensland were worth a further $7.79 billion in 2006-07.”

“The series of five exporting workshops in Emerald follows on from Trade Queensland’s recent Global Connect export event which was attended by 30 Central Queensland business people in Rockhampton in May.

“The Emerald Getting Export Smart program begins with an assessment of export potential for your business and progresses through additional sessions on business preparation, partnerships, effective marketing overseas, pricing, freight, packaging and payment procedures as well as e-business options and online marketing strategies in subsequent workshops.

“The program will also link Emerald and Central Queensland-based businesses to a dedicated client manager and the right agencies to assist local companies in becoming successful exporters,” Mr Lucas said.

Central Queensland businessman, Jamie Butler from Occupational Medic and Training, said that he had attended Getting Export Smart’s Rockhampton series in 2008 and found that it provided valuable tips on accessing overseas markets.

“We found Getting Export Smart to be an excellent tool to prepare and set up our business to access international markets for our advanced first aid courses, including our current target market for mine rescue training in China,” Mr Butler said.

Mr Lucas said that Trade Queensland delivers services across Queensland and in 13 international locations.

“Taking Smart State goods and services to the world contributes to the growth of Queensland’s economy and creates jobs for local people.

“The benefits of exporting from your business can include balancing seasonal demand and market risk, increased sales and turnover, higher prices and improved economies of scale.

“I urge all Central Queensland businesses that are considering exporting now or in the future to get in touch with Trade Queensland and sign up for Getting Export Smart,” Mr Lucas said.

Local businesses wishing to make further inquiries about the Getting Export Smart program can contact your local Export Adviser based in Rockhampton on 4938 4225, or Trade Queensland on 3224 4035.

Minister’s office: John Smith 3237 1944, Jane Rowe 3237 1125, Nathan Moir 3235 4060

Emerald Getting Export Smart workshop program schedule