

The 57th Australian Export Awards, co-presented by Austrade and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, are back in 2019 with a list of finalists revealed earlier this month.
Among the list of finalists is Newcastle Business, Safety Link, who design, engineer and manufacture height safety equipment, including roof anchors, horizontal lifeline systems, permanent ladders and personal protection equipment.
The Awards recognise the achievements of Australian businesses in selling their products and services around the globe. Collectively the 94 finalists employ 34,000 Australians and generate more than $7.8 billion in export earnings.
State and Territory finalists span thirteen categories in the running for the National Award in their category as well as the most prestigious award – 2019 Australian Exporter of the Year.
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham said through their creativity and determination these businesses are now exporting their high-quality goods and services all around the world.
“I hope by sharing their success stories through these awards that they will inspire the thousands of other Australian small businesses out there to take a punt and go global,” Simon said.
“Exports create more Australian jobs and further strengthen our economy. That’s why our Government continues to provide more opportunities for our 53,000 exporters through expanding our network of free trade agreements.”
Austrade Chief Executive Officer, Dr Stephanie Fahey says the Australian Export Awards offer an opportunity to recognise the success of Australian businesses.
“The Australian Export Awards recognises the achievements of Australian exporters and the contribution they make to the economy for the benefit of all Australians,” Stephanie said.
“We are delighted to be able to shine a light on these innovative businesses and hope it will encourage others to step outside Australia and expand on their already existing success.”
SafetyLink were named as a finalist in the Regional Exporter Award category. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 3 December at Parliament House in Canberra.
A full list of finalists can be found on the Australian Export Awards website.
IMAGE | SafetyLink named a finalist in 2019 Australian Export Awards

SafetyLink designs, engineers and manufactures height safety equipment, including roof anchors, horizontal lifeline systems, permanent ladders and personal protection equipment. A pioneer in the fall protection industry, it developed the first energy-absorbing anchor point that reduces the risk of injury to the worker.
Almost 30 per cent of sales derive from exports to partners in China, France, Hong Kong, India, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the US. Products are tested in an overseas testing facility to ensure adherence to European and American standards. Since 2016, the company has increased its staff from six to 16.