Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio agencies
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has several agencies within its portfolio:
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The Australian Passport Office issues and administers Australian passports.
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AusAID manages the Australian Government's federally funded overseas aid program that aims to reduce poverty in developing countries.
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Austrade contributes to community wealth by helping more Australians succeed in export and international business by providing advice, market intelligence and support to Australian companies to reduce the time, cost and risk involved in selecting, entering and developing international markets. Austrade also provides advice and guidance on overseas investment and joint venture opportunities.
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Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (EFIC) is Australia's export credit agency and supports Australian businesses by providing finance and insurance solutions.
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The Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) is Australia's overseas intelligence collection agency.
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The Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office (ASNO) has four main areas of responsibility in the nuclear area: the application of safeguards in Australia; the physical protection and security of nuclear items in Australia; the operation of Australia's bilateral safeguards agreements; and contribution to the operation and development of IAEA safeguards and the strengthening of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime. (ASNO is staffed through DFAT on the basis that it is a division within the Department.)
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The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) operates as part of Australia's aid program. It contributes to the aid program objectives of advancing Australia's national interest through poverty reduction and sustainable development.