Australian Trade Commissioner Service
Trade Commissioner Service
1933 – 6 January 1986
The Commonwealth's network of trade commissioners posted to overseas markets to promote Australian exports, report on market conditions and introduce Australian exporters to overseas buyers.
How it came into existence
Placed on a standing basis in 1933 under the Trade Commissioners Act 1933, which provided for the appointment of Australian trade commissioners abroad, and administered by the Department of Commerce. It built on earlier one-off appointments such as a Commonwealth trade commissioner in China from 1921 to 1923.
- Overseas trade representation
- Export promotion
The trade commissioners were appointed and administered within the Department of Commerce.
Legislation: Trade Commissioners Act 1933
Changes during its life
- 22 December 1942Administration passed to the Department of Commerce and Agriculture.
- 11 January 1956Administration passed to the new Department of Trade.
- 17 December 1963Administration passed to the Department of Trade and Industry.
- 19 December 1972Administration passed to the Department of Overseas Trade.
- 20 December 1977Administration passed to the Department of Trade and Resources.
- 11 March 1983Administration passed to the Department of Trade.
How it ended
Merged on 6 January 1986 into the new Australian Trade Commission (Austrade), established under the Australian Trade Commission Act 1985, which took over the overseas trade commissioner network.
- Overseas trade commissioner network
- Export promotion
Main functions
- Overseas trade commissioner posts
- Export promotion
- Market intelligence and reporting on overseas conditions
- Assistance and introductions for Australian exporters
- Handling trade enquiries from overseas buyers
Where it sits
Last in the portfolio of Department of Trade.
Lineage
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Sources
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.