Australia's New Government Challenges US Film Tariffs: What’s Next?

Australia's Labor Government Takes a Stand Against US Tariffs

Canberra: The recently re-elected Labor Party in Australia is gearing up to contest the US's newly imposed tariffs on foreign films, labeling them as "unjustified," according to a senior government official.

Amanda Rishworth, the Minister for Social Services, stated on Tuesday that the entire government team, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is committed to presenting a robust argument against these tariffs to the United States following their significant electoral win for the 48th parliament.

"These tariffs are simply unjustified," Rishworth remarked during an interview with Nine Network television. She is also a member of Albanese's cabinet from the previous parliament, although her new role has yet to be confirmed.

On Monday, US President Donald Trump announced a staggering 100% tariff on films produced outside the US, as reported by a news agency.

In a press briefing in Canberra, Albanese revealed that he had a conversation with Trump post-election, where they touched upon the subject of tariffs.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong emphasized on Tuesday that the US administration would be informed of the Australian government's stance against the film tariffs.

"We will certainly communicate our position on this matter to the US administration," Wong, who is expected to retain her role in foreign affairs, told Nine.

In a separate discussion with Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio, Wong highlighted that resuming negotiations with the European Union (EU) regarding a free trade agreement is crucial for Australia's trade diversification.

"As a trading nation, we must avoid trade barriers, as they are detrimental to our economy. Engaging with the EU and other partners is essential," she stated.

Negotiations for the trade deal with the EU fell through in 2023 due to disagreements over access for Australian agricultural exporters to the European market.

The Labor Party had previously announced in April that they would seek to reopen discussions with the EU if they won the election.

Reports from News Corp Australia indicated that Albanese is willing to eliminate the luxury car import tax from the EU in exchange for improved access for agricultural exports.