Battery technology startup Voltavate is establishing its Australian headquarters and research and development facility in Port Melbourne, in a move aimed at supporting the growth of battery manufacturing capability in Victoria.
According to the company, the new facility will support Voltavate’s transition from laboratory-scale development to pilot-scale manufacturing as it works to validate its battery separator technology under commercially relevant conditions.
Voltavate said its technology focuses on improving the manufacturing of battery separators, a component used inside batteries.
The company said the technology is designed to integrate directly into battery production processes, enabling in-line separator manufacturing while aiming to improve battery performance, safety and lifespan.
The Port Melbourne site will support expanded local research, development and pilot-scale production capability, as well as independent testing of the separator technology in battery cells.
Amir Hooshang Taheri said Victoria had provided a strong base for the company as it entered its next phase of development.
“The combination of technical talent, research capability and advanced manufacturing potential makes it a very attractive place to develop and scale battery technologies,” Taheri said.
“As we move from lab-scale development toward pilot-scale manufacturing, we see Victoria as an important part of Voltavate’s long-term growth.”
Voltavate also confirmed it had received funding from Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to support the establishment of pilot-scale manufacturing capability and demonstration of the performance and safety benefits of its technology.
The company said Victoria was selected as the location for the facility due to its technical workforce, research institutions, advanced manufacturing capability and broader clean energy ecosystem. Melbourne’s access to universities, engineering expertise and industry partnerships was also identified as a factor in the decision.
Voltavate said that, as an early-stage deep-tech startup, connecting with specialist facilities, research and industry partners, skilled talent and manufacturing scale-up pathways had been important considerations during its expansion.
The company said Invest Victoria supported the establishment and growth of the business in Victoria through introductions to industry networks and assistance with research, development and business opportunities.
