Small to medium sized businesses in Victoria’s defence industry will benefit from $1.36 million in support to modernise design and manufacturing processes.
Delivered by DMTC Limited (formerly the Defence Materials Technology Centre), the Smart Enough Factory program will assist participating businesses to adopt digital technologies, overcome barriers such as costs, skill shortages and security concerns, and create opportunities to enter defence supply chains.
Victoria’s defence sector includes around 24,000 people in 6,300 business that manufacture equipment or provide services for defence activities.
Up to 20 businesses will participate in the Smart Enough Factory program each year, with a pilot program currently underway. Businesses participating in the pilot include Australian Precision Technologies, APV Corporation, A.W. Bell, Heat Treatment Australia and Ronson Gears. The program will run for an initial period of three years.
Taking advantage of advances in data-driven production, the program will help businesses enhance their operational performance and manufacturing productivity, leading to more efficient processes and cost savings.
The program also includes a training component, facilitated by Victoria’s Defence Science Institute. The Institute will sponsor eight undergraduate interns each year from Victorian universities, offering industry exposure, skills development and possible future employment.
Find out how your business can benefit from the program and register interest on the DMTC website.
