Signing the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement
On 15 June 2021, Prime Ministers Morrison and Johnson agreed on a landmark Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (AUS-UK FTA), the UK’s first trade agreement since Brexit. The agreement aimed to enhance access for businesses and workers from both nations, boosting trade and job creation.
The AUS-UK FTA was officially signed on 17 December 2021. This comprehensive agreement promised to eliminate tariffs on over 99% of Australian goods exports to the UK, creating new opportunities for Australian exporters across various sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing. It also included provisions to facilitate the movement of professionals and business people between the two countries.
The AUS-UK FTA also sought to boost trade and deepen people-to-people links between Australia and the UK. By allowing Australians aged up to 35 years to apply for working holidays in the UK for up to three years, it opened new avenues for cultural exchange and professional development.
The agreement reflected Prime Minister Morrison's broader vision of a resilient and interconnected Australian economy on the world stage. The successful negotiation and implementation of this landmark agreement will continue to benefit Australia’s economy while enhancing the relationship with a longstanding ally.
Related media:
1. Press release, New free trade agreement to deliver jobs and business opportunities in Australia and the United Kingdom, 15 June 2021: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44072
2. Press release, New era of free trade with the UK, 17 December 2021: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43717
3. Press release, Joint Statement on UK-Australia Virtual Summit, 17 February 2022: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44159
