- Published:
- Wednesday 13 September 2017
The Andrews Labor Government will boost manufacturing, create highly skilled jobs and help businesses grow as part of a new industry strategy.
Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan joined manufacturers in Dandenong to unveil Advancing Victorian Manufacturing – A Blueprint for the Future.
The strategy, backed by $12 million in new funding and initiatives, builds on the Labor Government’s successful programs to support manufacturing businesses and create new jobs. The statement sets out four key actions including:
- creating manufacturing jobs of the future
- helping small to medium businesses grow, innovate and capture new market opportunities
- strengthening the local supply chain
- taking Victorian companies to the world and finding export opportunities
New initiatives will help manufacturers develop new products, improve training and skills, increase competitiveness and support export growth.
The Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Advisory Council, led by Ross Pilling, developed the strategy which features input from businesses, industry associations, unions and research organisations.
The $18 million Future Industries Manufacturing Program has already supported more than 30 projects to create around 250 new jobs.
Manufacturing employs more than 283,000 Victorians. In 2016, manufacturing experienced the fastest employment growth of any industry in Victoria with around 40,000 new jobs created.
To access Advancing Victorian Manufacturing – A Blueprint for the Future, visit
http://economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au/about-us/overview/strategies-and-initiatives/advancing-victorian-manufacturing
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“Victoria is the home of manufacturing. This strategy is all about creating jobs of the future, growing businesses and taking Victorian innovation to the world.”
“We look forward to rolling out the initiatives in this statement to drive a new era for the industry.”
Quotes attributable to Chairman of Advanced Manufacturing Advisory Council Ross Pilling
“Manufacturing is one of Victoria’s great strengths.”
“We have worked closely with industry to develop this strategy and ensure the sector is primed for future growth.”
Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
“Dandenong is a nation-leading manufacturing hub supporting thousands of local jobs. We have to plan for the future of this industry, and that’s exactly what this statement is doing.”