Manufacturing jobs grow

The state government is backing Victorian businesses, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, to stay at the forefront of Australian manufacturing and expand operations, boost productivity and create jobs.

Jobs and Industry Minister Natalie Hutchins announced small and medium-sized Victorian manufacturers can now apply for grants under Round 2 of the Made in Victoria – Manufacturing Growth Program.

Grants of up to $250,000 will support businesses to introduce new technology, improve productivity and competitiveness in local and global supply chains, upskill workers and create new jobs.

Recipients of Round 1 of the program were announced last month, with 14 Victorian manufacturers supported and 138 new jobs created. Underpinned by the Made in Victoria 2030: Manufacturing Statement, the government is supporting local manufacturers to expand operations and drive investment.

These initiatives include the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund, the $20 million Manufacturing and Industry Sovereignty Fund, the $15 million Industry R&D Infrastructure Fund, the Energy Technologies Manufacturing Program and the $4.5 million Digital Jobs for Manufacturing Program.

Victoria’s $33 billion manufacturing industry is a driving force of the state’s economy, made up of over 24,000 businesses, supporting more than 260,000 jobs and exporting goods worth $23.9 billion.

For more information about the Made in Victoria – Manufacturing Growth Program and to apply for a grant, go to business.vic.gov.au/mgp2.

Industry and Jobs Minister Natalie Hutchins said, “Manufacturing is critical to growing our economy and supporting local jobs. These grants will help more local businesses to innovate and expand, drive investment, and compete globally.

“We’re investing in Victorian manufacturers to support our growing economy and improve productivity.”