Manufacturing has become a policy priority in Queensland.

The government has announced $30 million to establish hubs in Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton to assist local manufacturers to grow their businesses and become more productive.

Each hub will focus on strengthening key manufacturing sectors, including:

• the marine, aviation and food manufacturing industries in Cairns;
• food transformation advanced manufacturing and advanced metal production manufacturing through Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things in Townsville
• rail manufacturing and technology, advanced technologies for metal production and food product innovation in Rockhampton

The hubs would provide a central place for local manufacturing businesses to receive expert advice and support to expand said Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick.

These hubs would be a catalyst to promote world-leading technologies, processes and practices to manufacturers and attract increased private sector investment, Mr Dick said.

“They will also ensure the manufacturing sector in each region continues to thrive well into the future, underpinned by the skilled workforce and networks needed to strengthen and evolve to meet market and industry demands,” he said.

“Regional manufacturers will have easy access to business development programs, skills and training and equipment.

“Each hub will develop strong links with local universities and schools to develop a workforce with strong skills in science, technology, engineering and maths.”

Queensland’s manufacturing sector is worth $20 billion each year to the state economy and employs more than 179,000 people, said Mr Dick.

Head of Queensland’s Ai Group, and member of the Manufacturing Ministerial Committee, Shane Rodgers, said the hubs presented a great opportunity to help local manufacturers access emerging and diversified growth opportunities.

Find out more about Queensland’s new manufacturing hubs by viewing the hubs delivery model here.