The Northern Territory is reaping the benefits of a growing advanced manufacturing, with the Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund on track to create up to 100 new manufacturing jobs and generate up to $35 million into the Territory’s economy over the next three years.
It’s now two years since a strategic partnership was formed between the Territory Labor Government and the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, to identify the Territory’s manufacturing capability, strategic opportunities and local companies to co-invest in.
The goal is to commercialise local innovation and increase the regions self-sufficiency, while growing skills, jobs and revenue for the Northern Territory.
The $7.5 million dollar AMEF launched in 2021, with co-investment awarded to six projects in Darwin, Alice Springs and Katherine so far – representing a combined commitment of $11.8 million to growing the Territory’s manufacturing ecosystem and a return on investment of 15:1.
Every project co-funded under the AMEF requires at least two collaborators – those being a business, manufacturer, supplier, or researcher – with at least one of the entities being Northern Territory based with Territory Government fund matched dollar for dollar.
Projects awarded through the AMEF include Corrosion Instruments, Diverseco, AirTip, Arctic Installations, Katherine Joinery and Steeline GRP.
With $5.2 million remaining in the AMEF, new applications are welcomed.
Ongoing engagement with Territory-based manufacturers has also contributed to the growth in manufacturing activity in the Northern Territory.
AMGC representatives have conducted over 320 in-person industry visits, 85 industry or business association briefings, 65 interstate manufacturer meetings and 20 events spanning the entire Top End over the last 18-months.
