Inside the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade): Your 60‑Second Guide to Landing Your Dream Role 🚀
Ever wondered what it’s really like to work at the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade)? We’ve reviewed their annual report so you don’t have to! In this quickfire overview, you’ll discover everything you need to know—from core functions and financials, to the key skills and qualifications they’re seeking in new recruits. Whether you’re a seasoned public servant or a fresh graduate, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate your path to a rewarding government career.
AT-A-GLANCE
Name of Department / Council: Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade)
Location: Australia-wide and international (over 60 overseas offices)
CEO: Mr. Xavier Simonet
Total Revenue: Approximately AUD 300.8 million (2023–24) 📊
Total Number of Employees: Over 1,100
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 Academic Qualifications Most Suited
Bachelor of Business / Commerce / Economics
Allows you to assess trade flows, market trends, and financial data, contributing to export and investment strategies.Bachelor of International Relations / Political Science
Equips you to handle international policies and diplomatic engagements—vital for trade negotiations.Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Offers strategic planning and leadership skills crucial for managing Austrade’s international projects.Information Technology / Data Analytics Degrees
Strengthens digital readiness—helpful for online trade facilitation and market data analysis.Marketing / Communications Degrees
Essential for promoting Australia’s trade, tourism, and investment opportunities worldwide.
Top 5 Certifications Most Suited
Project Management (PRINCE2, PMP)
Demonstrates competence in planning and executing inter-departmental, cross-border initiatives.Export Compliance or Customs Certifications
Showcases proficiency in navigating complex trade regulations—a plus for exporters’ support.Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Accountant (CA)
Enhances financial oversight for grants, procurement, and budget management.Government Procurement Certification
Demonstrates a solid grasp of contracting and tendering processes unique to the public sector.Diploma in Government (or other public-sector certifications)
Showcases familiarity with statutory frameworks, a must for government service.
Top 5 Trades / Professions Most Suited
Business Development Managers
Employ sales and relationship-building to expand international partnerships.Market Research Analysts
Convert data into trade insights for Australian exporters and investors.IT Specialists (Network & Security)
Keep Austrade’s global digital infrastructure running smoothly and securely.Financial / Grants Officers
Oversee export grants, budgets, and ensure public funds are used effectively.Consular / Diplomatic Specialists
Provide critical assistance to Australians abroad, including consular and passport services.
Top 5 Skills Most Suited
Soft Skills:
Communication: Collaborate effectively with diverse, global stakeholders.
Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate relationships with industry, overseas missions, and partner agencies.
Collaboration: Coordinate across various teams and time zones.
Problem-Solving: Tailor solutions to fast-changing trade challenges.
Adaptability: Respond swiftly to global trends and shifts in market conditions.
Technical Skills:
Policy Analysis: Evaluate economic and trade policies for strategic advice.
Data Analytics: Identify market opportunities using large data sets.
Market Intelligence: Offer up-to-date insights on global demand.
Risk Management: Mitigate international business risks.
Digital Marketing: Promote Australian exports online with targeted campaigns.
General Skills:
Administration: Maintain accurate grants and project documents.
Digital Literacy: Use collaboration tools and online platforms for project coordination.
Customer Service: Provide professional support for businesses and the public.
Organisational Skills: Juggle multiple priorities in a global environment.
Time Management: Meet strict deadlines across different markets.
Top 5 Work Experiences Most Suited
Public Sector Roles
Familiarity with government processes helps streamline policy implementation.Private Sector Export/Import
Real-world logistics and international trade experience boosts client support.Project Management Experience
Demonstrates capacity to handle sizable, deadline-driven initiatives.International Sales or Consulting
Positions you to support Australian businesses with on-the-ground knowledge.Finance / Accounting Roles
Facilitates accurate grant management and transparent financial reporting.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade)
Name of CEO: Mr. Xavier Simonet
Location: Australia-wide and internationally (offices in 41 markets)
Year Founded: 1985 (under the Australian Trade and Investment Commission Act 1985)
Main Mission and Purpose:
Austrade’s primary goal is to deliver top-tier trade and investment services to businesses and provide policy advice to government—all to grow Australia’s prosperity.Real-World Example: Assisting local agritech startups in pitching to overseas buyers, stimulating rural employment and diversifying Australia’s export base.
Main Duties of the Department:
Promoting Australian exports
Attracting international investment
Supporting the visitor economy
Providing trade and commercial policy advice to government
Real-World Example: Offering tailored guidance to a craft beverage producer on exporting to new global markets, helping with compliance and developing local partnerships.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
THRIVE 2030: A long-term strategy to boost Australia’s visitor economy
Export Market Development Grants (EMDG): Providing financial incentives for Aussie businesses to expand internationally
Inbound Investment Facilitation: Encouraging productive foreign investment aligned with Australia’s net zero goals and emerging tech markets
Digital Transformation and Trade Modernisation: Streamlining cross-border processes, giving exporters cutting-edge tools and data
Did You Know?
In 2023–24, Austrade supported Australian businesses in Southeast Asia, achieving export outcomes worth approximately AUD 1.6 billion. 💡
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: Over 1,100
Total Number of Employees at Each Pay Level (Approx.):
APS Levels 1–6: Largest cohort of operational and specialist staff
Executive Level (EL) 1–2: Managers, team leads, and senior specialists
Senior Executive Service (SES): Leadership, strategy, and high-level policy directors
Salary Bands: Typically range from around AUD 50,000 at the entry APS level to around AUD 300,000 for Senior Executives
Average Salary in the Department: ~AUD 110,000
Total Revenue: ~AUD 300.8 million in 2023–24
Average Revenue per Employee: ~AUD 273,000 (calculated by dividing total revenue by total employees)
GETTING A JOB AT THE AUSTRALIAN TRADE AND INVESTMENT COMMISSION
When you’re ready to explore a role at Austrade, here are some quick tips to keep in mind:
Which Academic Subjects Are Likely to Be Most Sought After and of Value?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Business Administration, Project Management, Tourism Operations
IT Support, Basic Data Analysis
Bachelor / Master Level:
Business, Commerce, Marketing, Finance (vital for market insights and grant administration)
International Relations, Policy Studies (ideal for shaping policy and working with government stakeholders)
Engineering, Environmental Management (for contributing to Australia’s net zero and advanced-tech initiatives)
PhDs:
Specialist Research (Economics, Trade, Technology), offering in-depth analysis and shaping high-level strategy
Which Trades and Professions Are Likely to Be Most Sought After and of Value?
Financial Analysts, Market Researchers, IT Specialists, Project Managers, and Consultants often thrive due to Austrade’s focus on commercial outreach and strategic facilitation.
Which Work Experiences Are Likely to Be Most Sought After and of Value?
Government or NGO Experience: Familiarity with policy frameworks
Commercial Export / International Sales: Real-world skills that guide exporters effectively
Policy Development or Research Roles: Data-backed contributions to strategic decision-making
Financial / Risk Management: Ensuring responsible grants administration
Which Skills Are Likely to Be Most Sought After and of Value?
Soft Skills: Collaboration, negotiation, customer service, adaptability, problem-solving
Technical Skills: Policy analysis, data analytics, digital marketing, risk assessment
General Skills: Strong administration, time management, digital literacy, stakeholder engagement
Which Hobbies and Interests Align with the Work of This Department?
Travel & Cultural Exploration: Fosters global awareness and cross-cultural collaboration
Networking & Entrepreneurship Groups: Cultivates industry insights and opportunities for exporters
Tech & Innovation Meetups: Helps stay updated on cutting-edge solutions for trade facilitation
Want more information on this department?
Contact the department:
Recruitment Enquiries / HR Team: info@austrade.gov.au
Telephone: +61 13 28 78
Address: Tower 2, International Towers, 200 Barangaroo Avenue, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
Website: www.austrade.gov.au
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DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information, including annual reports. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information on this article. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this article.