Giving our economy a much-needed boost is as easy as saying ‘g’day’ to one extra Australian-made product a week, says Aussie entrepreneur, model and mum, Elyse Knowles.
Ms Knowles has joined forces with the Australian Made Campaign (Australian Made) to urge shoppers to seek out genuine Aussie products with the launch of the first ever Australian Made Week on 24 May. The initiative comes after a challenging year for many Australian businesses and aims to celebrate and support local makers and growers around the country.
Citing Roy Morgan research, the Australian Made Campaign says if every household spent an additional $10 a week on Australian-made products, it would inject an extra $5 billion into the economy each year and create up to 11,000 new jobs.
Ms Knowles says she has enjoyed seeing the wide range of genuine Australian-made goods in the lead-up to the week. She’s also enjoyed meeting fellow entrepreneurs passionate about encouraging people to make the switch to Australian made.
Ms Knowles and partner Josh Barker started an Australian building and construction business called J&E Projects in 2018. She says $10 is a small price to pay to help support local makers and growers.
“Working with our local communities, farmers and growers is something I am so passionate about,” says Ms Knowles.
“Shopping daily with local vendors for fresh produce and household supplies is such a simple task but the value it brings to the lives of our fellow Aussies is pretty incredible.
“Josh and I are constantly changing our building processes to ensure we incorporate as many Australian products as possible.
“The premium quality we come across day after day continues to amaze us. There are so many talented people in our country – to champion their skills, creativity, work ethic and products is a rewarding way to do business.
“Business has been challenging for many throughout the pandemic. If we can all make an extra effort to keep an eye out for the iconic green and gold Australian Made logo, the benefits will be huge for everyone.”
Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro says Australian Made Week is a great time to focus on the benefits of buying local.
“When you buy Australian made, not only are you getting products made to some of the highest standards in the world, you create jobs, now and into the future, and support thousands of Australians throughout the supply chain,” he says.
“Australian Made Week is a great opportunity to celebrate all the great things we make and grow and commit to reassessing our shopping habits and prioritising Aussie products.”
Australian Made Week will be supported through a series of local events, TV, radio, out-of-home, print, online and social media ad placements.
