Grants boost to manufacturing hub

BUSINESSES in Dandenong and Keysborough will share almost $500,000 in grants to invest in new technology.
TriMas Corporation in Keysborough will use $250,000 from the State Government’s Investing in Manufacturing Technology (IMT) program to buy and install robotic welding cells.
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich said this would enable a number of employees to upgrade their skills.
The company manufactures and supplies automotive accessories, including tow bars and roof racks, to the transport industry.
“TriMas is a diversified designer, manufacturer and distributor of engineered and applied products that serve a variety of industrial, commercial and consumer end markets worldwide,” Ms Peulich said.
Armacell Australia in Dandenong will use $219,900 to install an automatic insertion line for domestic manufacturing of components for air-conditioners.
Ms Peulich said this is expected to increase domestic sales by more than $1 million and replace materials now imported to Australia from Asia.
“The line will create four new jobs and transition four existing positions to higher skilled duties,” she said.
Armacell manufactures foam technologies and is the world leader in the market for flexible technical insulation materials.
“Armacell also produces thermoplastic insulation materials, covering systems, fire protection and noise control products, special foams for a multitude of industrial applications and foam cores which are used as composite materials,” Ms Peulich said.
Manufacturing Minister David Hodgett said 20 companies were awarded a total of $3.4 million under the IMT program, designed to stimulate investment in new technology.
“The projects will create at least 65 new jobs and transition 101 employees to higher value roles,” he said.
“These grants are an excellent example of how new technology is helping to improve production processes, develop new skills and take advantage of a range of innovative export opportunities.
“Victoria is the hub of Australia’s manufacturing industry but to meet the challenge of the high Australian dollar and competitive international markets, manufacturers must look to increase investment in new technology to remain competitive.”
IMT round four grants open today (23 September).
Visit www.business.vic.gov.au/imt for more information.