The Queensland government, in conjunction with James Cook University (JCU), has launched a $250,000 program to help manufacturers in North Queensland save time and money while developing new products.
Minister for Manufacturing Glenn Butcher said the Commercial Manufacturing Accelerator Voucher Scheme will grant up to $25,000 in funding to local manufacturers in North Queensland, helping them develop, test, and modify prototypes before going to production.
Butcher announced the scheme at the specialised JCU testing facility yesterday, along with local MP Aaron Harper.
“Right now, there’s a gap in support for local manufacturers who want to develop and test innovative products that can help them move to Industry 4.0 technology, in line with our Advanced Manufacturing roadmap,” Butcher said.
“Manufacturing is one of the most valuable sectors to Queensland’s economy and we know that this pilot program will help create and support even more good jobs and better services.”
The voucher program was developed as part of the Palaszczuk government’s partnership with JCU in an effort to provide targeted support to regional businesses, enabling them to receive help from JCU researchers and testing facilities.
JCU Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Biggs said the university was delighted to take part in the Commercial Manufacturing Accelerator Voucher Scheme, through its innovation hub known as Area 61.
“Area 61 has expanded to provide a unique service to industry across northern Queensland, enabling co-design and collaboration through our rapid prototyping facility,” Briggs said.
“From designing conveyor belts to accurately counting crops for pineapple farmers to developing technology monitoring the effects of temperature changes on ants, Area 61 designs and manufactures items that require a combination of skills and resources across software, electronics and advanced manufacturing.”
Funding provided under the voucher program will be matched by suitable candidates to accelerate the development of their working prototype, towards commercial manufacturing.
Interested manufacturers are urged to contact the Townsville Manufacturing Hub at: Townsville.manufacturinghub@rdmw.qld.gov.au.
