South Australian businesses develop some of the best products in the world and a Hurn Liberal Government will help them prove it, with a $5.5 million investment to boost export expertise.
A new Liberal Government will revive the Export Ready Program to help local businesses start exporting, build confidence in global markets, diversify where they sell, and strengthen South Australia’s economic security.
State Liberal Leader Ashton Hurn said the program is about backing local businesses and unlocking new growth.
“South Australia is home to innovative, high-performing businesses, but too many face real barriers when trying to enter international markets,” Ms Hurn said.
“This program provides hands-on, practical support so businesses can grow, employ more South Australians and strengthen our economy.
“Backing exporters means backing jobs, growth and long-term economic security for our state.”
The Export Ready Program will include four core components:
• Training and workshops, delivered both in-person and online — covering export fundamentals.
• Personalised mentoring and masterclasses to build business capability and confidence.
• A central digital export knowledge hub, featuring webinars, practical resources and a dedicated Export Advice Line.
• Business-to-business networking and collaboration events to share knowledge and open doors to new partnerships.
As part of the program, a dedicated South Australian Export Market Development Grant (SAEMDG) will be reintroduced to help new and existing exporters overcome the costs and complexity of exporting.
Grants of up to $50,000 will support businesses to:
• Break into new international markets
• Spread risk and diversify income streams
• Adapt products for overseas customers
• Participate in trade missions and promotions
• Meet international standards and compliance requirements
Shadow Minister for Trade, Industry and Investment, Tim Whetstone, said the program is complemented by the $300 million Rural Financing Fund that provides a safety net from market volatility for primary producers.
“We want to make it easier for South Australian businesses to take that next step, open new markets, and grow with confidence,” Mr Whetstone said.
“That also means making sure that businesses know a Liberal Government will have their back when there are market conditions out of their control, such as oversupply or extreme weather events.
“Our Rural Financing Fund provides no and low-cost loans to help farmers, wineries and grape growers to bounce back so they can continue putting SA on the global stage."
Together, the Export Ready Program and the SAEMDG will unlock new opportunities across regions and industries, remove barriers to trade, attract interstate and foreign investment, and help South Australian businesses reach their full potential.
