Australian Made Week ambassador Andy Lee is urging Australians to make a simple change in their shopping habits that could have a massive impact on the nation's economy and workforce. By spending an additional $20 per week on products bearing the green-and-gold kangaroo logo, households could help inject an extra $11 billion into the economy annually and create nearly 20,000 new jobs, according to new research from Roy Morgan.
The $20 swap challenge
Lee, a proud advocate for Australian businesses, innovators, and entrepreneurs, is championing the 'swap your shop' challenge during Australian Made Week 2026. The idea is straightforward: take a few extra seconds to choose certified Australian-made options when purchasing everyday items such as groceries, household goods, and clothing.
“I’m a huge advocate for Aussie businesses, innovators and entrepreneurs, so I’m super proud to be drawing attention to the tangible as well as ‘feel good’ benefits of buying local,” Lee said. “When we choose to buy products bearing the iconic green-and-gold kangaroo logo, it makes a huge impact on supporting local jobs and communities and boosting local economies.”
Quality and safety standards
Lee highlighted that Australian products are renowned worldwide for their high standards in craftsmanship, safety, and sustainability. “We have an international reputation for having the highest standards in craftsmanship, safety and sustainability,” he noted. “We also have such an immense pool of talented and hardworking people on home soil who we need to support and celebrate.”
He added that his own business partners have made a conscious decision to support Australian products because they lead the world in quality and safety standards. “My business partners and I have made a conscious decision to support Australian product and produce because we know it leads the world in quality as well as safety standards,” Lee said.
Encouraging year-round support
Lee is encouraging all Australians to join him during Australian Made Week and throughout the year in showing love for local makers and growers. “I encourage all Aussies to join with me this Australian Made Week – as well as the other 51 weeks of the year – in showing and sharing their love for local makers and growers,” he said. “Take up the ‘swap your shop’ challenge! Every Aussie wins when we buy local.”
The campaign aims to highlight that in nearly every product category, there is an Australian-made option available, making it easy for consumers to support local businesses and contribute to the nation's economic growth.
