The Northern Territory’s manufacturing sector is set to benefit from the introduction of advanced laser surface cleaning technology, made available through Darwin-based company Wurrba.
The initiative, co-funded by the Northern Territory Government, marks the first time such technology will be permanently accessible in the region, reducing reliance on interstate and international service providers.
Wurrba’s adoption of laser surface cleaning aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of cleaning metal and other materials.
Unlike traditional abrasive techniques, laser cleaning relies on focused light to remove contaminants without damaging the underlying material.
The process, which eliminates the need for secondary cleanup, is well-suited for applications ranging from infrastructure remediation to precision maintenance in industries such as maritime, defence, and local government.
Founder of Wurrba, Raphael Clarke, highlighted the transformative potential of the technology. “Laser cleaning will become a critical enabler for the NT’s manufacturing and wider industrial ecosystem. Through the adoption and deployment of this advanced technology, Wurrba will be able to tackle everything from infrastructure remediation to equipment maintenance, remanufacturing, and waste reduction faster, safer, and more efficiently than ever before,” Clarke said.
Industry consultation has identified a strong pipeline of work for Wurrba, spanning tasks such as graffiti and lead paint removal, machinery servicing, and preventative maintenance for critical infrastructure.
Clarke emphasised that keeping such services within the Territory would ensure that local dollars remain in the region, supporting jobs and business activity.
Northern Territory Minister for Advanced Manufacturing, The Hon Robyn Cahill OAM, underscored the importance of access to cutting-edge technology.
“Businesses having access to service providers utilising the latest technologies is crucial to the overall health of the Territory’s manufacturing ecosystem. By co-investing with Wurrba, the NT Government is unlocking new capabilities to support local industries while generating local jobs and keeping more of the NT’s business activity in the Territory,” Cahill said.
Laser surface cleaning is regarded as a superior alternative to traditional methods such as media or ice blasting, offering precision and environmental benefits.
The process relies on ablation, where contaminants are vaporised and captured through filtration, making it particularly suitable for delicate surfaces, medical devices, aerospace components, and industrial applications.
The technology is also expected to contribute to the circular economy by extending the service life of high-value parts and reducing waste.
It will play a role in various applications, including masonry cleaning, metal preparation, and disaster remediation such as flood cleanup and infrastructure restoration.
Wurrba’s $1.7 million project, supported by a $410,733 co-investment from the Northern Territory Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund (AMEF), is projected to generate $28 million in revenue and create 30 new jobs across administrative, managerial, and skilled roles within its first five years.
Charmaine Phillips, Northern Territory Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC), noted the broader impact of the initiative.
“The Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund is focused on building a capable network of manufacturers, service providers, and researchers to solve problems in the Territory for local and global customers. Co-investment in Wurrba will enable the entire Territory manufacturing industry to become more self-sufficient and capable of producing higher-quality products faster, cleaner, and more efficiently than ever before,” Phillips said.
Wurrba’s collaboration with Phoenix Laser Cleaning and Restoration and the Darwin Innovation Hub will facilitate staff training and optimisation of the laser technology for the Northern Territory’s climate conditions.
The project is the thirteenth to receive co-investment through the AMEF, which was launched in 2021.
To date, the fund has supported manufacturing activity expected to generate over $121 million for the Territory’s economy and create more than 230 new jobs within its first five years.
