Old Mate Andy steps up as Austra-Lee-an Made Week Ambassador

He’s one of Australia’s most recognised comedians, an iconic radio, podcast and TV host, an award-winning children’s book writer and one half of the nationally beloved duo Hamish and Andy.

Now, Andy Lee is taking on a new gig as the ambassador for Australian Made Week 2026 (taking place 18–24 May).

In 2026, the Australian Made logo also turns 40 and today remains the most trusted and widely recognised country-of-origin symbol.

Andy will be donning the green and gold to highlight the economic benefits of seeking out and buying products bearing the Australian Made logo and supporting growers, producers and businesses on our home soil.

Australian Made Week ambassador Andy Lee explained there is an added feel-good factor that comes with buying Australian-made products.

“Choosing to buy locally made goods is a simple habit, but it creates a big impact, from generating and supporting local jobs to boosting local economies,” he said.

“I’m a huge advocate for Australian businesses, innovators and entrepreneurs – we have such an immense pool of talented and hard-working people on home soil who we need to support and celebrate.

“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.

“I love sharing Australian culture with the world, so I’m super-excited to have the opportunity to spotlight some incredible homegrown favourites and newcomers with the help of the Australian Made team.

“Nothing would make me happier than knowing my involvement in Australian Made Week had encouraged people to support our wonderful country and the incredible things our local makers create.”

The latest figures from Roy Morgan Research show Australians are as committed as they’ve ever been to supporting local manufacturing and production. Eighty-seven per cent of surveyed consumers said buying Australian is important to them, while 56% state they ‘often’ or ‘always’ buy Australian-made products. Impressively, 99% of Australians aged 18 and over are aware of the Australian Made logo.

Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro said Andy is the perfect fit and choice for Australian Made Week ambassador.

“Andy has been a long-time champion for Australian-made, both here and overseas – passionately supporting and spruiking the best of Aussie manufacturing and production,” he said.

“He’s also a homegrown entrepreneur, Aussie business owner and investor, and one of the country’s greatest ‘exports’ who has the admiration of multi-generations for his authenticity, happy-go-lucky attitude and of course humour.

“It will be fantastic to have Andy on board as the Australian Made logo reaches its 40-year milestone. Naturally, we will be celebrating this achievement in the Australian way, with a big Aussie BBQ and other fun events and activities.

“During Australian Made Week, we’ll be highlighting the stories of some of the people behind the 4,500 businesses that consider their Australian Made certification as a badge of honour.”

“There’s an Australian Made option in just about every product category you can think of, from high-end health and beauty products to industrial materials, which is why in 2026 we’re encouraging Aussies to ‘swap their shop’, and consciously choose Australian Made when buying everyday items like groceries, household goods and clothing as well as big-ticket purchases such as furniture and bed mattresses.”

Learn more about Australian Made Week and find genuine Aussie products at australianmadeweek.com.au

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