Queensland manufacturers are receiving government funding to upgrade equipment, improve production processes and expand capacity under the state’s new Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grants Program (TQMGP), with more than half of the first-round recipients based in regional areas.
In a media release, the Queensland Government said $12.5 million has been awarded to 18 manufacturers in the inaugural funding round, including Yatala-based Lightwave Group and Bromelton-based Terra Firma Fertilisers. A further round of recipients is expected to be announced during Queensland Manufacturing Month this September.
Lightwave Group, which manufactures performance sailing catamarans and industrial fibreglass composite products, has secured $735,000 to install automated equipment aimed at streamlining its composite manufacturing processes. The project is expected to create 14 jobs over five years and support workforce upskilling.
Lightwave Group General Manager Ned Overell said the investment would help the company respond to demand for locally made products.
“Demand for high-quality local Queensland-made products continues to grow and at Lightwave we are always trying to stay at the forefront of advanced manufacturing,” Mr Overell said.
“This grant will help us significantly improve our productivity and we are grateful for the Queensland Government’s continued support that will allow us to continue to invest in innovation while also building a highly skilled workforce.”
Terra Firma Fertilisers has received $1.31 million to establish a production line for granular fertiliser products targeting the broadacre market. The project is expected to create 10 new jobs and increase the company’s production capacity.
Terra Firma Fertilisers General Manager and Agronomist Ruby Earsman said the funding would support the company’s plans to expand its manufacturing capability.
“It will allow us not only to establish a dedicated granular fertiliser production line, significantly increasing our capability and capacity, but also create new skilled jobs in our region,” Ms Earsman said.
Queensland Manufacturing Minister Dale Last said the grants were intended to help small and medium-sized manufacturers improve productivity and capabilities.
“Manufacturing is one of Queensland’s largest and longest serving industries – from small family businesses to major industrial operations, and these grants will support small to medium enterprises to lift productivity, upskill staff and upgrade equipment and processes,” Minister Last said.
The Queensland Government said manufacturing contributes $29 billion to the state economy each year and supports more than 171,000 jobs, including more than 76,000 in regional Queensland.
Minister Last said 11 of the 18 first-round grant recipients were based in regional Queensland, describing the regional allocation as an important component of the program.
“Importantly, over half of the round one grants have been awarded to regional Queensland businesses – this means more jobs secured and more money flowing to our regions,” he said.
The program is being announced ahead of Queensland Manufacturing Month, with the Queensland Government saying further grant recipients will be unveiled throughout September. A second round of the TQMGP is also expected to open soon.
