Queensland-based manufacturer Aletek is bringing its mining products to global markets through a $1.36 million investment from the Queensland government.
Awarded through the fourth round of the Made in Queensland program, the grant will allow Aletek to purchase and install a punch/laser combination machine, hydraulic press, flatbed cutter, and handheld 3D scanner. The new equipment is expected to support the creation of approximately 29 new local jobs over the next five years, according to the company’s estimates.
Aletek is a global manufacturer of heavy-duty exhaust systems, thermal lagging and diesel emission control solutions for the mining and oil and gas industries.
Laurent Bordes, chief financial officer of Aletek, said the government grant has positioned the company to tap into new local and international markets and substantially advanced its manufacturing efficiencies and technology to achieve success within the next 10 years.
“It’s taken the ceiling off Aletek manufacturing capabilities and allowed us to turbo-charge our goal to become a world-class manufacturer and exporter in this period of time,” Bordes added.
Queensland Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher is slated to meet with local manufacturing workers at their site in Bundaberg.
“Supporting manufacturers like Aletek to take their business to the next level through the adoption of advanced manufacturing is exactly what the Made in Queensland program is designed to do,” Minister Butcher said. “The grants are providing critical financial assistance to help manufacturers grow their businesses, reduce costs and, most importantly, create local jobs.”
“Aletek is a fantastic example of local Bundaberg ingenuity making a mark on the global stage,” said Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith. “There are so many businesses in this region that are growing and the government is supporting that, it’s fantastic to see.”
Queensland’s 2023-24 State Budget has allocated approximately $32.2 million for the Made in Queensland Grant Program to help new technology adoption, international competitiveness, productivity, and innovation.
The program has created and supported over 5,400 jobs and the investment in the budget will ensure even more manufacturing jobs are made in Queensland.
