Applications are now open for the Governor of Victoria Export Awards (GOVEAs), with businesses from across Victoria’s major industry sectors encouraged to apply and have their contribution to our economy recognised.
The Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau AM is the patron of the awards, which are made up of 15 categories, including three exclusive to Victoria – Innovation Excellence, Women in International Business, and Exporter of the Year. The awards recognise businesses that take their products, innovation and expertise to the world, playing a key role in strengthening global trade and creating new jobs. Winning companies are automatically entered into the Australian Export Awards where they compete against the country’s most successful exporters for a chance at national acclaim and international exposure.
“Victoria’s exporters keep the wheels of our economy turning, put people in jobs and show the world why we remain Australia’s hottest economic destination,” said Philip Dalidakis, Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade. “The quality of applications for the GOVEAs is always outstanding and I look forward to seeing what 2017 brings for some of the state’s most important businesses.”
Digital start-up Envato took out two categories in 2016 – winning both the Digital Technology and Victorian Women in International Business awards – and went on to win the Australian Exporter of the Year Award at the national awards. Envato’s online marketplace was originally founded by two friends in a garage and now exports around US$50m each year. The 2016 GOVEA for the Exporter of the Year was awarded to the family-owned, Melbourne-based skincare company Ego Pharmaceuticals, who export products to 27 countries across Asia, the Middle East and Europe and continue to invest in Victoria as its customer base grows.
Victoria is home to some of Australia’s best exporters, with GOVEA winners going on to take out the Australian Exporter of the Year award for the past four years running. Export plays an extremely valuable role in supporting Victoria’s economy, contributing over $43bn to the economy, helping to support jobs throughout the state.
The application period for the GOVEAs runs until 31 July. For more information visit: