GOVERNMENT UNVEILS $20M “MADE RIGHT HERE” CAMPAIGN TO BOOST LOCAL MANUFACTURING
By Staff Writer Saturday, January 24, 2026
SMITHFIELD, NSW – The Albanese Government has officially launched its largest “Buy Australian” push in over a decade, unveiling the $20 million “Made Right Here” campaign at a major industrial hub in Western Sydney on Friday.
Minister for Industry and Innovation, Senator Tim Ayres, joined by Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, kicked off the initiative at the Capral Aluminium factory in Smithfield. The campaign is designed to urge Australian households to prioritize products carrying the iconic green-and-gold kangaroo logo.
The Power of Ten Dollars
During the launch, Minister Ayres highlighted the massive economic impact of small shifts in consumer behavior. He noted that if every Australian household spent just $10 more per week on local products, it would:
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Inject $5 billion back into the national economy.
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Create an estimated 10,000 new jobs.
“The Albanese Labor Government backs Aussie-made products and shares a vision for an Aussie-made future,” Ayres said. “We know that Australians want to back local businesses at the checkout, and this campaign is about making it easier to do that—in-store and online.”
A Strategic Response to Global Pressures
The campaign serves as a key pillar of the government’s response to the 2025 U.S. tariff announcements. By strengthening domestic demand, the Department of Industry aims to build “economic resilience” against volatile global trade markets.
Minister Bowen, the local member for McMahon, emphasized that the initiative turns “national pride into practical support.”
“Launching Made Right Here in Smithfield makes sense. It’s one of the biggest industrial precincts in the southern hemisphere,” Bowen said. “When you choose Australian made, you are backing local businesses, stronger supply chains, and good secure work in communities like ours.”
Campaign Rollout
The $20 million grant to the Australian Made Campaign Ltd (AMCL) will fund a six-month “publicity blitz,” including:
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National TV Advertisements: Showcasing various sectors from advanced manufacturing to everyday household goods.
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Digital & Social Media: Targeting online shoppers to make identifying local brands easier.
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In-Store Promotions: Increased visibility of the kangaroo logo in major retail outlets.
Currently, approximately 4,500 businesses are licensed to use the Australian Made logo. Tony Dragicevich, CEO of Capral Aluminium, welcomed the move, stating it gives customers “confidence that they are buying quality” while supporting the 900 people his company employs nationwide.
