The Victorian Government has announced a new manufacturing-focused investment aimed at supporting jobs and expanding food production capacity in regional Victoria, with more than 40 roles expected to be created in the state’s dairy sector.
Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes said the government would support the expansion of Tongala Nutrition through the $150 million Victorian Investment Fund, during a visit to the company’s processing facility in Tongala.
The investment will be used to upgrade technology and infrastructure at the site, including the addition of sustainable energy systems, new production equipment, and improved freight and supply chain capabilities, according to the government.
Tongala Nutrition, which began producing nutrition products in 2023 after acquiring a former Nestlé factory, is seeking to expand both domestic and international market reach through the upgrades.
The Victorian Investment Fund, established last year, is designed to accelerate strategic investments across the state, with a dedicated $50 million stream for regional businesses. Priority sectors identified under the fund include advanced manufacturing and defence, health technologies, circular economy initiatives, digital technologies, and agribusiness.
Symes said the investment reflects the role of regional industries in the broader manufacturing and food production landscape.
“Regional Victoria is the engine room of the nation’s food production industry – creating jobs, leading innovation and driving value and prosperity for communities,” she said.
Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson said the project highlights how the fund is intended to support business expansion.
“Tongala Nutrition’s expansion is a big win for regional Victoria and our dairy industry – and it shows how this Fund is catalysing business investment to drive economic growth and competitive advantage,” he said.
Tongala Nutrition founder and chief executive Siddharth Jani described the project as a step forward for the company’s manufacturing capabilities.
“This project represents a significant milestone for Tongala Nutrition as we continue to build a world-class dairy and nutrition manufacturing platform in regional Victoria,” he said.
The announcement builds on other recent investments in the region, including the expansion of Greenham Australia’s Tongala abattoir, which nearly doubled production and created 270 jobs with government support.
Victoria recorded $20.1 billion in food and fibre exports in 2023–24, reinforcing the state’s position as a major contributor to Australia’s agricultural and manufacturing output.
