Queensland boosting local manufacturing

The Queensland Government has announced it will boost homegrown manufacturing and attract new business to Queensland, with an expansion of the Made in Queensland program.

The expansion will deliver an additional $5 million in manufacturing grants to expand advanced manufacturing across the state.

“The … government will deliver an extra $5 million each year to the Made in Queensland manufacturing grants to boost capability, productivity and innovation, and to generate high-skilled jobs for the future,” said Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last. “Our plan includes expanding the footprint of manufacturing hubs in regional Queensland by establishing new facilities and supporting existing ones to better meet the needs of local industry and create more jobs.

“A focus on manufacturing will deliver a robust strategy to support our regional and rural economies. Rockhampton and other regional centres across Queensland have the skills, drive and vision to lead the state’s economic future, and our government is here to back that potential every step of the way.”

Last said a key focus was driving down costs for businesses to create investment certainty, attracting more manufacturing to Queensland.

Operations Manager at Rockhampton business Manuplex Shaun Herrmann said with the resources and support from the Hub, Manuplex has been able to stay ahead in the industry.

“The support we’ve received through the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub has been key in helping us establish our steel framing division,” he said. “It’s allowed Manuplex to take full control of our manufacturing process, delivering better results for our clients and projects.

“By building our manufacturing capabilities locally, we’re not just improving our business but also contributing to the region’s economy and creating skilled jobs.”

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