Local manufacturers seeking to compete on the global stage and create highly skilled jobs are set to receive a boost from new Andrews Labor Government grants.
Minister for Manufacturing Sovereignty Ben Carroll today announced small and medium sized Victorian manufacturers can now apply for grants of up $250,000 under the Made in Victoria - Manufacturing Growth Program.
The program will support local manufacturers to introduce new technologies, expand operations and improve productivity.
It's a key part of the Labor Government's plan to grow our advanced manufacturing sector and builds on the success of previous grant rounds. The program awarded more than $10 million to 29 projects last year, creating more than 550 new jobs across the state.
Businesses that have benefitted from last year's grants include Waste Converters Recycling, which is establishing new robotics lines, and Dentalife Australia, which has brought manufacturing back to Victoria for its hospital-grade disinfectant wipes.
Manufacturing is a driving force of the Victorian economy, employing more than 260,000 people and contributing around $31 billion to the state's economy each year.
Underpinned by the Made in Victoria 2030: Manufacturing Statement, the Government is backing the state's advanced manufacturers to innovate, grow production and capitalise on opportunities through a range of initiatives.
This includes the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund, the $20 million Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre, the $6.95 million Low Carbon Manufacturing Grantsprogram and the $4.5 million Digital Jobs for Manufacturingprogram.
Applications for the Made in Victoria - Manufacturing Growth Program are open now. For more information visit business.vic.gov.au/mgp.
As stated by Minister for Manufacturing Sovereignty Ben Carroll
"We're backing local businesses to get the support they need to succeed and take advantage of new opportunities - keeping Victoria at the forefront of Australian manufacturing."
"Victoria is the home of advanced manufacturing in Australia and we're continuing to invest in this sector because we know how critical it is to growing our economy and creating jobs."
As stated by Dentalife Managing Director Tom Stray
"This grant has helped us expand our medical device infection control manufacturing facility, reducing the reliance on imported products and creating more local jobs."
