The Australian Government has announced $20.7 million in funding for the University of Newcastle’s Future Industries Facility, aimed at supporting technology innovation and industrial development.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasised the importance of this development for the region’s growth.
“My Government is building Australia’s future, [and] we will deliver more than $20.7 million for the Future Industries Facility at the University of Newcastle. This project will boost education, employment, and training opportunities for Newcastle and the surrounding region,” he explained.
The facility, to be located within the University’s Next Gen Precinct, will house two industrial-scale innovation spaces.
It is designed to enable academic-industry partnerships, supporting the co-development of technologies from research to market in sectors including energy, resources, and manufacturing, with a focus on the net-zero economy.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King highlighted Newcastle’s historical and ongoing importance.
“The Future Industries Facility will build on Newcastle’s vital role as an industrial powerhouse and source of skilled workers. Our investment will train the next generation in the latest practices in energy, resources, and manufacturing, preparing them for a net-zero future,” she stated.
The facility will serve as a problem-solving centre for local businesses and the community, offering opportunities for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to test technologies and for students to gain hands-on experience in prototyping and manufacturing.
Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon underlined the broader benefits of the project.
“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting our city with this new facility set to bolster the University of Newcastle. Focusing on accelerating resource sustainability, workforce training, and productivity, the Future Industries Facility will contribute an estimated 740 direct and indirect jobs,” she said.
“This investment will secure a bright future for our region, strengthening partnerships between the university and local industry, and equipping graduates with the latest skills and practices as we prepare for the net-zero economy.”
The Future Industries Facility is one of seven projects supported by the regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, which is investing $47.9 million to transform regional, rural, and remote areas across New South Wales.
For more information, visit the Regional Australia website.
