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Tonnes of lobster will be flown overseas.Credit:Discovery

Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said the coronavirus was placing a huge strain on Australian exporters as borders shut around the world.

“We recognise the current COVID-19 crisis is placing immense pressure on Australian exporters,many of whom felt the earliest and deepest aspects of the economic downturn,"said Senator Birmingham.

“Getting our export sector back on its feet is crucial to reduce job losses through the crisis and a critical part of the ultimate economic recovery."

Michael Byrne,the former managing director of Toll Holdings and Linfox has been appointed as the International Freight Coordinator General.

The travel restrictions across the globe are forecast to remain in place for at least six months but have so far been limited to people,not trade.

“Necessary public health restrictions are already placing massive pressure on business viability and job security,"said Senator Birmingham.

"We can’t afford for our farmers,fishers and exporters to be under similar pressure just because they can’t get their goods onto a plane."

The planes from Melbourne,Sydney,Brisbane and Perth are expected to be loaded with more than $500 million worth of lobster alone and more than $800 million worth of seafood over the course of the flights.

They will be able to return with medical supplies and equipment ordered by Australian authorities.

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