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IFAM keeping Australia connected to global markets and trade flowing
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ince taking flight in April 2020, the Australian Government’s International Freight Assistance Mechanism (IFAM) has successfully reconnected nine Australian ports to 58 international destinations. IFAM was established as a temporary and emergency support measure to keep global air links open after COVID-19 restrictions saw commercial passenger flights drop by more than 90 per cent almost overnight. The program was set up to reconnect time-sensitive and highly perishable Australian products reliant on airfreight — such as fruit, vegetables and seafood — to existing overseas markets.
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WA Grower SPRING 2021
On the return leg, the program was also set up to ensure flights bring back goods of national importance and other equipment critical to supporting Australia’s ongoing health response to the pandemic. IFAM flights out of Perth have ensured Western Australia remained connected to customers in key destinations including Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Xiamen, Taipei, and Tokyo.
Outbound flights out of WA have carried chilled lamb, beef, rockmelons, strawberries, avocados, live lobsters, crabs and flowers.
currently working together to finalise details of this extension. Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Dan Tehan, said IFAM flights had been critical to saving regional jobs and getting local produce out the door during tough times. “Keeping our Australian growers connected with their established international customers will ensure continuity of operations and mean local businesses are wellplaced to take advantage of Australia's continued economic recovery,” Mr Tehan said.
IFAM flights have been critical to saving regional jobs and getting local produce out the door.
IFAM currently has a funding commitment to the end of September 2021. However, in his National Cabinet announcement on 2 July, Prime Minister Scott Morrison indicated an extension of additional support through IFAM to continue maintaining essential freight supply lines. Government agencies are
“Our support for exporters through IFAM flows through to their suppliers, supporting local jobs and the local communities in which they operate. “We’re backing our farmers by making sure they can continue to get more of their high-quality product into overseas markets.”
