Mars Petcare’s expanded Wodonga manufacturing facility is increasing production capacity and adding more than 65 jobs, the Victorian Government says, as part of a broader push to support regional manufacturing and economic growth.
The completion of the multi-million-dollar expansion was marked on site by Minister for Regional Development Michaela Settle, who joined workers at the facility as it ramps up output to more than 29 million cat food pouches each year for Australian and New Zealand markets.
In a news release, the Victorian Government said the upgraded site includes a new 7,800-square-metre manufacturing facility equipped with automated packaging systems, autonomous mobile robots, and a hydrostatic cooker, supporting higher-volume production and a broader product range.
The expansion lifts Mars Petcare’s Wodonga workforce to nearly 500 people and supports production of pet food brands including Whiskas, Dine, Optimum and Advance.
The facility is part of Mars Australia’s broader manufacturing network, with the Wodonga site described as its largest in the Asia Pacific region. The company also says it is progressing toward a 100 per cent renewable energy solution for the site within the next two years.
The Victorian Government said the expansion reflects the strength of the state’s manufacturing sector, which is valued at $37.4 billion and supports nearly 260,000 jobs while exporting $29 billion in goods.
Minister for Regional Development Michaela Settle said the project strengthens both local employment and industrial capability in the region.
“Regional Victoria is a great place to invest, and Mars Petcare’s expansion is creating more than 65 local jobs while helping secure the future of manufacturing in Wodonga,” Settle said.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the investment reflects continued government support for regional industry growth.
“Only Labor is backing businesses to grow in regional Victoria, and this investment in Wodonga is creating jobs, supporting local suppliers and ensuring our region remains a manufacturing powerhouse for years to come,” Symes said.
Mars Petcare Australia and New Zealand Supply Director Caroline Aspridis said the expansion represents a significant milestone for the workforce and the region.
“We’re incredibly proud of our Associates, whose passion and dedication have helped bring this milestone to life, and we’re excited about the opportunities this creates for the region for many years to come,” Aspridis said.
