The Western Australian government has moved in progressing its proposed Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub (AMTECH) in the South West after hiring Deloitte to deliver a feasibility study and business case for the proposed facility.
The appointment is the next step in an effort to establish a world-class hub in the Bunbury-Geographe area, which would open up new opportunities for industry in the region, the government said in a media statement.
In particular, Deloitte will research the preferred model, location, structure, and services for an AMTECH, building on the extensive work completed thus far in support of the proposal.
Market demand, feasibility, and engineering design studies will also be carried out, along with a thorough project strategy, economic benefit analysis, and financial viability plan.
Following industry dialogue that influenced preliminary scoping, planning efforts to date have included a preliminary assessment report to identify major areas of attention.
The government also revealed that an AMTECH common-user facility is planned to boost industry competitiveness by giving local enterprises access to cutting-edge infrastructure, industry 4.0 technologies, research, education, and training.
Regional Development Minister Don Punch expressed his delight that the planning for the proposed Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub in the South West is progressing.
“Regional Western Australia is the powerhouse of the State’s economy and deserves access to infrastructure, technology and training that unlocks opportunities for industry,” Minister Punch remarked.
He added, “This is another great example of industry and government working together with the aim of producing economic outcomes that will transform industry prospects and unlock business and quality job opportunities in the future.”
Meanwhile, Clive Brown, chair of the SW AMTECH steering group, described the announcement as a significant step towards establishing an innovative manufacturing and technology cluster for Bunbury and the surrounding region.
“The State Government has identified technology and advanced manufacturing as a priority to further help diversify WA’s economy and create jobs,” Brown noted.
“I look forward to working closely with government, industry and the local community to unlock the potential of the South-West’s manufacturing sector through the AMTECH project,” he concluded.
The South West Development Commission is the proposal’s lead agency, and it will continue to work directly with the consultant, industry, and other stakeholders as planning moves forward.
