12 British raw milk cheeses can now be exported to Australia thanks to a deal signed in London last week.

Until now, Australia has only permitted two types of raw milk cheese for import, both from France. 

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said today’s agreement ‘highlights the international recognition of Britain’s world-class food quality and standards’. 

The government's Food Minister, Victoria Prentis, said: “British cheese is famous around the world for its taste, quality and heritage and today’s agreement is a sign of that stamp of excellence.

“I am delighted British raw milk cheese makers will be able to sell their produce to Australia for the first time ever. This may be a small market, but it is evidence of the work this government is doing on all fronts to expand export opportunities for British farmers and producers.”

The 12 cheeses which will be exported to Australia are Appleby’s Cheshire & Double Gloucester, Hafod, Isle of Mull, Keen’s Cheddar, Kirkham’s Lancashire, Lincolnshire Poacher, Montgomery’s Cheddar, Sparkenhoe Red Leicester, St Andrew’s Anster, St Andrew’s Cheddar and Westcombe Cheddar.