The Queensland Government is set to provide a boost to home-grown manufacturing and attract new business to the state with an expansion of the Made in Queensland program.
The expansion will deliver an additional $5 million in manufacturing grants, aimed at expanding advanced manufacturing capabilities across the state, as revealed in a media release.
Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last has visited local businesses Manuplex and PHL Metal Fabrication in Rockhampton, as well as toured the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub, to make the announcement.
“The Crisafulli Government will deliver an extra $5 million each year to the Made in Queensland manufacturing grants to boost capability, productivity, and innovation, and to generate high-skilled jobs for the future,” Minister Last said.
“Our plan includes expanding the footprint of manufacturing hubs in regional Queensland by establishing new facilities and supporting existing ones to better meet the needs of local industry and create more jobs.”
Minister Last emphasised that the focus on manufacturing will play a key role in driving economic growth in regional and rural areas.
“A focus on manufacturing will deliver a robust strategy to support our regional and rural economies. Rockhampton and other regional centres across Queensland have the skills, drive, and vision to lead the state’s economic future, and our government is here to back that potential every step of the way,” he added.
A crucial aspect of the expansion is the government’s commitment to reducing business costs, which are seen as barriers to investment. Minister Last highlighted efforts to lower electricity and water costs, which have been driving up the cost of doing business.
“The Crisafulli Government is focused on driving down costs like electricity and water, which are driving up the cost of doing business. We are determined to make Queensland the most attractive state for manufacturers to invest in,” Minister Last stated.
“Make no mistake, our doors are open, and we’ll be doing all we can to attract new manufacturers while supporting the world-class industry that already exists here.”
Local manufacturer Manuplex has already benefited from the support provided through the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub.
Manuplex Operations Manager Shaun Herrmann spoke about the positive impact the program has had on their business.
“The support we’ve received through the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub has been key in helping us establish our steel framing division,” Herrmann said. “It’s allowed Manuplex to take full control of our manufacturing process, delivering better results for our clients and projects.”
Herrmann also highlighted how expanding their capabilities locally has had broader economic benefits. “Manuplex’s growth reflects the opportunities available here in Central Queensland. By building our manufacturing capabilities locally, we’re not just improving our business but also contributing to the region’s economy and creating skilled jobs,” he added.
