By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THREE Dandenong businesses have been awarded with technology grants to boost their competitiveness.
Popina has been given $250,000, HM Engines, $61,000 and A&L Windows, $48,000.
The money came from the Victorian Government to increase their export performance and make them more competitive.
Minister for Manufacturing David Hodgett said the three companies would benefit greatly from the grants.
“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,” Mr Hodgett said.
“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.”
The funding comes after the State Government announced $3.2 million in grants to be spread between 21 companies as part of its Investing in Manufacturing Technology (IMT) program, as a means of creating more jobs and boosting productivity.
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich outlined the different ways in which the Dandenong companies will utilise the grants.
“Popina will use the grant from the Victorian Government’s IMT program to purchase and install an in-line blending station and upgrade the bagging equipment,” Ms Peulich said.
“It will also consolidate two production lines into a single high-speed and highly efficient operation.”
Ms Peulich believes HM Engines is likely to use its grant to purchase a machine centre to assist with the re-manufacturing of engines and cylinder heads to provide fast and accurate machining of large-diesel engine blocks and creating four new jobs in the process.
Meanwhile A&L Windows will put the money toward new equipment to enhance its diverse range of products.
“A&L Windows will use the grant from the Victorian Government’s IMT program to purchase and commission a robotic glass feed stage for its existing double glazing line,” Ms Peulich said.
“This will improve the company’s productivity and competitiveness and create an additional two jobs.”
For the 21 companies across the state that will receive the grants, 137 new jobs will be made available and 146 employees will be moved to higher roles.
“For the businesses involved, there will be significant productivity improvements, new skills development and a range of innovative opportunities,” Mr Hodgett said.
“Investment in technology and new processes is making Victoria manufacturing more productive and internationally competitive with increased capability for both domestic and export markets.”
