Now we’ve all had a bit of time to digest the Federal Government’s 2016 Budget measures, just what does it mean for the Australian manufacturing sector?
At FORM2000, we don’t claim to be economists. But as custom sheet metal product suppliers and participants within the manufacturing sector, we are pleased to see further targeted funding of Government Industry Growth Centres ($248 million over 4 years) to increase sector competitiveness and collaboration, and to support R&D commercialisation in key areas of competitive advantage:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Cyber security
- Food and agribusiness
- Medical technologies and pharmaceuticals
- Mining equipment, technology and services
- Oil, gas and energy resources
The industry-backed, outcomes based model is designed to ensure collaboration with existing R&D centres, universities and research agencies, and to work alongside existing Federal and State Government funded development programs.
Figure 1.
SOURCE: http://www.amgc.org.au/
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre was the first centre established in August 2015 and progress has been made in providing transition assistance for traditional industrial hubs with a view to developing future export oriented, high value markets.
This includes development of ‘collaboration and capability’ centres in Geelong, focused on advanced materials and composites, and, in South Melbourne, additive manufacturing.
The Centre’s charter focuses on growth positioning, maximising R&D investment return, and developing the jobs of the future.
Figure 2.
SOURCE: http://www.amgc.org.au/
Something that we all need to keep an eye on!
Further Information
Follow progress of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre at http://aamc.org.au/collaboration-hubs-to-harness-cutting-edge-technology/