The New South Wales Government has announced more than $2 million in funding to support local manufacturing on the Mid North Coast, with Australian-owned company Solidcast set to expand production of its low-carbon concrete panels in Wauchope.
The investment, delivered through the state’s $480 million Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative, is expected to create 25 new full-time jobs across construction and operations.
According to the government, Solidcast’s patented precast panels, which reduce emissions by up to 60 per cent compared to traditional concrete, can be used in residential, commercial and civil projects.
NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said the project highlights how the state’s transition to net zero is tied closely to the future of local manufacturing.
“The transition to net zero is not just about reducing emissions. It’s about creating jobs, building industries, and ensuring communities benefit from the opportunities of a low-carbon economy,” she said.
Sharpe added that the panels were designed to lower costs and improve sustainability across the construction industry.
“These concrete panels are lighter, stronger and can be made with recycled polystyrene, reducing both transport emissions and the amount of waste going to landfill. By backing projects like this, the Minns Labor Government is reducing the carbon footprint of the building industry and supporting regional jobs and housing delivery.”
The company’s panels, which are cyclone, fire and flood resistant, have already drawn interest from builders, developers, engineers, architects and government project managers.
Supporters say the technology could help speed up the delivery of much-needed housing supply across the state.
Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the funding reflects a broader commitment to regional manufacturing and innovation.
“Regional NSW is home to world-class innovation in sustainable construction and Solidcast is a great example,” she said.
“By backing manufacturers like Solidcast, we’re building supply chains at home, reducing reliance on imports, and keeping investment and jobs in our regions.”
