Local link for manufacturers

DANDENONG has further cemented its reputation as a manufacturing hub with the announcement of a specialised, federal government-backed networking centre.
Manufacturing centres will be built in each state as part of the government’s Enterprise Connect network.
The Victorian centre will be housed in Dandenong and will act as a central point of support for the state’s manufacturers.
Local federal MPs Alan Griffin, Mark Dreyfus and Anthony Byrne released a joint media statement last week.
They said the location of a manufacturing centre in Greater Dandenong would be a boon for local businesses.
“This is good news for businesses in Dandenong, where one of the 10 Enterprise Connect centres will be located,” Mr Griffin said.
“The Dandenong Manufacturing Centre will provide services for the whole state, helping Victorian businesses to succeed, and creating high-wage, high-skilled jobs for our kids.”
Mr Dreyfus said the network would make a practical contribution to the competitiveness of local small and medium enterprises.
“Through the Dandenong centre, experienced business advisers will work directly with companies,” they said.
These advisers would provide:
• A free business review;
• Assistance in business strategies and operations;
• Benchmarking of business and manufacturing processes against best practice;
• Help in finding the latest research, technology and organisational knowledge to improve products and efficiency;
• Prototyping and testing facilities to turn good ideas into products; and
• Help to cut through red tape and get the best access to government programs.
The application process for Enterprise Connect is simple and quick. A new website with all the information is live at www.enterpriseconnect.gov.au or interested businesses can call 131 791.