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Exporting is when you create goods or services in Australia and sell them to customers in another country.

Benefits of exporting

Exporting can help you:

  • expand into new markets
  • increase your sales and productivity
  • learn new ways of doing business
  • make your business more efficient
  • better deal with economic shocks.

Risks of exporting

Exporting also has some risks and drawbacks. For example, you:

  • will have more paperwork and compliance requirements
  • may need to register your intellectual property in multiple countries
  • could be more vulnerable to overseas cybercrime
  • have to be wary of scams and unethical business partners
  • need to understand the cultures, customs and laws of other countries
  • may have hidden costs when entering a new market
  • might take longer to get paid by overseas customers
  • could be negatively impacted by global politics and events.

Legal requirements

You need to follow the law when you export your product or service. This means both:

  • Australian laws and regulations
  • the laws and requirements of the countries you’re exporting to.

Customs

You must follow customs rules and procedures when you export goods from Australia.

Most goods with a value of over A$2000 need an export declaration before they can be exported.

Some types of goods are banned from being exported without a permit. The Australian Border Force (ABF) has more information about exporting prohibited goods.

Agricultural products

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry controls the export of some agricultural products. The department's website has information on exporting these products.

Get help with exporting

Go Global Toolkit

Austrade's Go Global Toolkit has tools, market insights and guidance to help you expand into new markets.

Learn the basics of exporting, check if you’re ready to export and get advice on how to grow your business globally.

Access the Go Global Toolkit

Financial assistance

Here are some Australian Government programs that can help with the cost of exporting:

State and territory government support

State and territory governments have information and financial assistance for Australian exporters. See what’s on offer in your area:

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