- Published:
- Tuesday 31 July 2018
A Lara defence manufacturer is boosting its operations to position itself to supply military countermeasures for the F35-Lightning II (Joint Strike Fighter) thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll visited Chemring Australia to announce a $1.2 million Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT) grant to help the company embark on a massive expansion – creating 40 jobs.
As part of the project, Chemring will expand its state-of-the-art countermeasure and pyrotechnic manufacturing facility in Lara – which is already one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities of its type in the world.
The expanded facility will be used to design, install and commission manufacturing, and test infrastructure for the F35-Lightning II (Joint Strike Fighter) countermeasures. Countermeasures include flares that counter the threat to the aircraft from ground or air launched infrared-guided missiles.
Chemring Australia has already provided demonstration flares to the United States for qualification purposes.
The company is a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier of military-grade products for the defence and safety markets – this investment will help the company secure high value defence contracts.
The defence sector contributes up to $8 billion to Victoria’s economy every year and includes more than 400 businesses – employing around 20,000 people.
The Labor Government has provided over $120 million in manufacturing support, creating over 6,000 jobs and driving more than $1.6 billion in private investment.
LIFT helps businesses generate new investment and create jobs for retrenched workers in areas affected by the closure of car manufacturing.
The initiative has supported more than 40 projects that are expected to create more than 1,200 new jobs, more than 1,000 of which are suitable for ex auto workers.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll
“We’re making sure manufacturing has a strong future in Victoria. With companies like Chemring Australia at the forefront of their field – that future is bright.
“Thanks to our support, Chemring Australia will be able to create jobs, expand its operations and boost capability to help it secure more defence contracts.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“Chemring Australia is a local manufacturing success story – we’re proud to be supporting a company that is investing locally, creating jobs and boosting our economy.”