Federal Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said the COVID-19 pandemic had led to major air freight shortages and had disrupted supply chains around the world.
“This temporary action will help Australian producers to protect the jobs of those who rely upon Australia’s export of safe, quality food into the world,” Senator Birmingham said.
“Getting our export sector back on its feet is crucial to reduce job losses through the crisis and a critical part of the ultimate economic recovery.
“By getting flights off the ground, full of Australian produce, we’re supporting our farmers and fishers who have been hit hard by this crisis.”
Victorian Agriculture Minister Jaclyn Symes said farmers produce enough food to share with interstate and international partners.
“Our farmers are producing plenty of food — there is no need to panic buy — and this will assist our primary producers to fill international orders, too.”
Forestry and Fisheries Assistant Minister Jonathon Duniam said the freight assistance was a lifeline for Australian fishers.
“The fishing industry was one of the first hit when access to China was cut off in January, bringing many in the industry to their knees,” Mr Duniam said.
“Unlocking key international markets will get thousands of fishers, divers, deckhands and processors back on the job, and the levy relief will help to keep fishers financially afloat.”
The initiative is part of the government’s $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund to support communities and industry sectors that have been affected by the coronavirus.