Australia's export shares globally and highlights the barriers preventing entry. Access to global markets is reliant on a multitude of chained issues including reputation, financial risk including market volatility, short term contracts, loss of intellectual property and limited opportunity. Among Australian firms, foreign direct investment (FDI) has evolved into an increasingly popular solution to bypass these restrictions. Preceding Downey's view on export expansion theories, O’Byrne (2002) goes into further detail about the "Exporting for the Future" initiative whereby he lists key indicators of Australia's growth: Exports account for about 20% of Australia's gross domestic product (GDP). 1 in every 5 Australian jobs depends on exports. 1 in every 4 jobs in rural and regional Australia relies on exports. Ninety six cents of every dollar of output from FDI stays in Australia. These indicators remain relevant to Australia's continued reliance on their huge export base in sectors such as mining. Services For Australian companies Austrade provides advice to exporters on prospective markets and opportunities; on-the-ground support in target countries; trade exhibitions; and assistance in finding potential investors. No charge is made for general information which includes extensive online information, though fees may be required for specific tailored advice. Austrade provides information and advice to assist Australian companies in exporting goods and services to markets including Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Russia. For Australian exporters and education providers, Austrade has a comprehensive mix of information and customised services to assist doing business within overseas markets and to understand foreign regulations and business practices. Historically, Austrade has concentrated most of its initiatives in North America, Western Europe and Japan due to the maturity of their economies. This has allowed for the Australian economy to engage in international trade through programs such as the Export Market Development Grants scheme, aimed at developing support for exporters by organising free trade agreements. Other initiatives include Australia International Education 2025 to bolster opportunities for international students to study abroad and the Tourism 2020 Implementation Plan which will help strengthen one of Australia's most important industries. Eligible companies may apply for an Export Market Development Grant which provides funding for small to medium exporters for eligible promotional expenses. A range of newsletters, webinars and in person events and activities are available to businesses with many strongly promoted via social media. For international investors Austrade is responsible for the promotion, attraction and facilitation of productive foreign