A Celebration of Trans-Tasman Relations
20 Years of Closer Economic Relations between Australia and New Zealand

Message from the Minister for Trade

Minister for Trade

Deputy Leader of the National Party of Australia

 

March 2003

This year we celebrate not only 20 years of productive economic integration of the Australian and New Zealand economies but a flourishing relationship in many areas of mutual interest.

In 1983, Australia and New Zealand embarked on a truly ambitious trade liberalisation program. The CER, now regarded as a model trade agreement, has exceeded all expectations in improving trans-Tasman trade and investment.

When we talk about the CER today we not only refer to the original trade agreement but a web of agreements covering free trade in goods and services, free movement of people, mutual recognition and harmonisation of product standards and occupational qualifications, customs and quarantine harmonisation, and investment. The two economies have become increasingly integrated to a level attained by few others.

The business activity generated by the CER has brought substantial wealth and employment to the people of both countries.

Each year over a million Australians and New Zealanders cross the Tasman as tourists, for business purposes, or to visit family members. More than 450,000 New Zealanders reside in Australia and around 50,000 Australians live in New Zealand.

The cooperation of our governments at federal and state level is demonstrated through New Zealand participation in many Australian Ministerial Councils including those covering primary industries, environment protection, food regulation and industry and technology.

CER underpins an extensive and diverse range of activities in the flourishing trans-Tasman relationship.

 

MARK VAILE