The Victorian Government is supporting Australia’s largest staircase manufacturer, S&A Stairs, to expand its production capacity and contribute to the state’s growing housing sector.
Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks recently toured the company’s Braeside facility, where the manufacturer is set to increase production by 7,800 staircases annually with government backing.
The expansion is expected to help meet demand, as more than half of the detached houses and townhouses built in Australia require staircases, the government said in a news release.
“We have the country’s largest supplier of staircases right here in Victoria, and we’re backing them to ramp up their production so we can build more homes for more Victorians,” Brooks said.
S&A Stairs, a fourth-generation family business established in Melbourne in 1920, has played a role in several notable architectural projects, including the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Village and the ceremonial staircase at Parliament House in Canberra.
The company is now investing in advanced manufacturing technologies and upskilling its workforce to meet the increased production capacity.
“With the support of the Victorian Government, we will be able to realise our expansion aspirations, adopt cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, and support the construction industry,” said S&A Stairs Managing Director Tom Acquroff.
Victoria’s manufacturing sector is a key contributor to the state’s economy, generating $39.2 billion annually and supporting more than 283,000 jobs.
The state’s Economic Growth Statement is aimed at strengthening local industries by providing support to businesses and developers, ensuring that Victoria’s housing supply continues to grow while creating jobs and bolstering the construction sector.
“The Economic Growth Statement is supporting companies like S&A Stairs to get the materials they need locally, supporting Victorian businesses and jobs,” said Minister for Jobs and Economic Growth Danny Pearson.
The initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to support Victoria’s advanced manufacturing sector, positioning local businesses to take advantage of emerging opportunities while contributing to economic growth.
“Proud to be part of a government that is supporting local businesses to create great local jobs,” said Member for Mordialloc Tim Richardson.
