Siemens expands Queensland manufacturing facility

Siemens has announced expansion of the Fusesaver manufacturing facility in Queensland. The expansion to new premises will see operations grow from 1400 to 5500 m², nearly quadrupling the manufacturing footprint, and is expected to double the workforce and increase exports by more than $300 million over the next 10 years.

Siemens’ Fusesaver MV vacuum circuit breaker technology is designed to clear faults in 10 ms, reducing the risk of starting bushfires caused by fallen powerlines and improving network reliability. The home-grown product, developed in Queensland nearly 20 years ago and subsequently acquired by Siemens, is now helping eliminate up to 80% of sustained electricity outages, around 760,000 hours of electricity outages, on rural networks in over 35 countries, according to Siemens.

“Queensland is open for business, and this investment reinforces the state’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and innovation,” said Queensland’s Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates. “It demonstrates the strong outcomes that can be achieved when global companies invest in local capability, creating jobs, strengthening exports and delivering economic benefits for our state.”

In addition to the growth of Fusesaver, the investment will also continue to support manufacturing of the Compact Modular Recloser, another local product designed and developed at the current facility and exported worldwide.

Speaking at the launch, Peter Halliday, CEO of Siemens Australia and New Zealand, said the Yatala facility expansion reflects the company’s long-term commitment to innovation and sustainability.

“It’s another chapter in our story and Australia’s story to create a positive impact on the world — right here from Queensland,” he said. “The Fusesaver story reflects the attitude we all love about our culture. Our people are smart and resourceful and through technology and innovation we can have a big impact on the world.”

In addition to major markets such as the USA, Brazil and the UK, Fusesaver also helps companies closer to home, such as Powercor in Victoria, reduce the risk of electricity assets starting bushfires and increases network reliability.

Dr Brett Watson, one of the co-founders of Fusesaver and the head of Siemens’ Electrification and Automation business in the region, said that the expansion is testament to what is possible when bold ideas have support.

Image caption (L–R): Peter Halliday, CEO of Siemens Australia and New Zealand; Hon Ros Bates, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training; and Dr Brett Watson, Head of Electrification & Automation at Siemens Australia and New Zealand. Image: Supplied