Dandenong jobs boost

Gabrielle Williams and Eurofins managing director Graeme Risdon with staff celebrating the $1 million grant announcement.

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Dandenong’s manufacturing sector is set to benefit from a $3 million-plus State Government boost.

The grants will support local projects and an expected 150 extra jobs in the region.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams announced the funding at Eurofins Melbourne Campus – Asia-Pacific Scientific Centre of Excellence in Dandenong South.

Eurofins was awarded $1 million of Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT) funding for a new food-testing laboratory, which will lead to an expected 50 new jobs.

Other LIFT beneficiaries include Aquaworks and Aware Environmental.

The LIFT program was designed to assist regions impacted by the automotive industry shutdown.

Under a Future Industries Manufacturing Program (FIMP), three local businesses Dynamic Steel Frame, Moondarra Cheese and AW Bell received grants.

The FIMP grants aim to support new manufacturing technologies, better productivity and export opportunities.

Victorian manufacturing is said to contribute $27.7 billion to the state’s economy, employing more than 280,000 workers and exporting more than $18 billion of goods.

The Government has contributed $130 million to support the sector.

“We are proud to support local businesses which are investing and employing local people in the Dandenong region,” Ms Williams said.

“The Andrews Labor Government is supporting job creation through the LIFT and FIMP programs which are providing opportunities for ex-auto workers, driving investment and business innovation.”