A new Export Diversification Program has been launched to provide South Australian exporters impacted by global trade disruptions, with up to $50,000 to help them overcome international tariffs and trade barriers.
The $1 million Export Diversification Program, launched at an industry forum, will provide support to companies facing rising export costs and supply chain interruptions to help them adapt, remain competitive and support them to explore new markets.
Expressions of interest are open for two separate grant streams:
- Export Advisory Grants: Up to $5,000 is available to South Australian businesses that have exported less than $500,000 to a market facing trade disruptions. The funding can be used to seek external advice, for planning and research to assist them to maintain exports or to diversify their markets.
- Market Accelerator Grants: Up to $50,000 for businesses that have exported more than $500,000 to a market facing trade disruptions. The funding can be used to help them overcome these challenges or access new markets.
The Export Diversification Program comes after a year of unpredictable and turbulent global trade conditions.
South Australian manufacturers and businesses with products embedded in global supply chains have been impacted by tariffs and other trade disruptions, resulting in some South Australian products facing reduced competitiveness in international market.
However, South Australian businesses can leverage Australia’s diversified trading relationships around the world, including the recent Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that came into force on 1 October 2025.
For Kelly Tillage, a farm equipment manufacturer and exporter, the new grant program will assist them to remain competitive and sustainable into the future.
"With current trade settings shifting constantly, committing capital to one’s export growth ambitions is increasingly challenging," said managing director Calvin Stead.
"The ability to adapt quickly is now a core part of running an international business from South Australia."
The Export Diversification Program is funded through a $5 million boost in the 2025-26 State Budget that supports South Australian exporters to diversify and connect with new or growing markets around the world.
