The Morrison Government is backing three local companies in Forde to modernise how they do business, as they grapple with the impact of the coronavirus.
Merino Country in Shailer Park will receive $404,000 to adopt new technologies in fibre, fabric and garment production, sewing machine and innovative production methods for their Merino Textile & Clothing business which will allow for wool processing through to the finished product here in Australia. The investment will allow the business to create 55 new jobs for locals.
Loganholme business ATP Science will receive $1 million for the purchase and installation of a new-to-Australia, high-tech, fully integrated, bar line including a Combithermix, vacuum system, depositor, cooling system, robotic de-moulding units and robotic packing equipment to manufacture unique collagen protein confectionery products.
Mansalem in Tanah Merah will receive $100,000 to expand their prosthetic services to encompass maxillofacial prothetics which is a limited service and specialty.
Federal Member for Forde Bert van Manen MP said the support came at an incredibly important time for the local manufacturing sector.
“The Morrison Government is committed to Australian manufacturing and supporting small and medium sized businesses like ATP Science here in Logan,” Mr van Manen said.
“This investment will not only strengthen this businesses and create jobs, it will provide a much needed confidence boost for the whole region as we face this unprecedented pandemic.”
“The Morrison Government is backing Logan businesses and jobs with grants to help them modernise their manufacturing capability so they can grow, expand, and employ more locals.”
“Supporting local manufacturing and supply chains is critically important to Australia’s economic recovery.”
200 projects worth more than $215 million dollars are being supported through the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund (MMF). The Federal Government is contributing $48.3 million.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the projects are expected to create 2,600 Australian jobs and were about preparing Australian manufacturing beyond COVID-19 and the challenges of today.
“We established the MMF before the coronavirus pandemic to help small and medium sized manufacturers invest in capital equipment and new technologies to transform and upgrade their manufacturing operations,” Minister Andrews said.
“Now as we face the coronavirus pandemic and look to come out the other side stronger, this investment will be more critical than ever.
“I am determined to further strengthen Australian manufacturing and the current pandemic gives us the opportunity as a nation to reassess and commit to the values of Australian-made goods.”
The MMF builds on other Federal Government investments in manufacturing growth and competitiveness, including the $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund, the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, and the $40 million Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre.
For more information on the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund visit www.business.gov.au/MMF
