So now around 80 per cent of those employed in this country work in a services industry. That is 4 out of 5 workers. A real highlight in the services sector has of course been the tourism industry. As Trade Minister, I can tell you that I very much understand the contribution Australia's dynamic, highly diversified services sector is making to Australia's export performance. The services sector has well and truly demonstrated it is capable of providing high value added services tailored to individual countries' needs.
Services now represent nearly a quarter of our exports.
Moreover, services such as financial, telecommunications, air-freight, legal and accountancy services, are also important 'drivers' of Australia's international competitiveness. Indeed 1995-96 was a real breakthrough for the services sector. For the first time we recorded a surplus on services trade world-wide. I applaud that achievement. But we can do still more.