Victorian Manufacturing Minister David Hodgett has announced the next round of funding under the Coalition Government’s $7.5 million Manufacturing Productivity Networks (MPN) program during the opening of the Aviation Industry Resource Network (AIRNet) Manufacturing Productivity Summit at the Victorian Investment Centre.
MPN provides support to Victorian manufacturing companies by assisting them in working together to boost their productivity and competitiveness. Activities supported by the program include research, feasibility projects, product developments and lean assessments, among others.
“Manufacturing drives productivity, research and development and workplace innovation, and supports many other industries by providing both a major market for their goods and services and the products they need to operate,” Mr Hodgett said in a media release.
“Through Victoria’s strong base of industry networks, this initiative encourages Victorian manufacturers to focus on and improve their productivity so they can continue to compete successfully in domestic and global markets.”
Twenty applicants have received funding for business network projects that are expected to help improve the productivity and competitiveness of around 630 businesses.
Mr Hodgett also lauded AIRNet for developing a productive aviation industry manufacturing project which brought together several organisations including aviation companies, a university and a financial consultancy firm.
He said the $100,000 AIRNet project has enhanced the capability and competitiveness of Victoria’s aviation and aerospace industry.
“It has enabled the participating companies to share knowledge, research, resources, experiences and expertise, and provided access to educational events and professional services,” the Minister said.
Applications for the new MPN funding round will close on 14 March 2014. Potential applicants are encouraged to visit www.business.vic.gov.au/mpn or call Business Victoria on 13 22 15.
