The new state-of-the-art facility will support local food and beverage businesses to scale up from small-batch production to larger, commercially viable operations, helping to create jobs, strengthen supply chains and retain value-adding manufacturing in Australia.
The Australian Government awarded $17M to Central Coast Industry Connect to deliver the facility under the Establishing a Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub grant.
The Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub will give small and medium-sized food producers access to commercial-scale facilities, industry expertise and specialist growth support to help businesses develop, test and commercialise new products more efficiently.
The Hub reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening links between research and industry commercialisation by providing access to shared infrastructure and expertise to help turn ideas into products and bring them to market faster.
The initiative supports the Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda by strengthening domestic manufacturing capability, supporting value-added food production and creating greater economic opportunities from Australian-grown products.
Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Senator Tim Ayresn said: “The Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub will help local businesses turn great ideas into successful products – creating jobs, lifting productivity and strengthening Australia’s manufacturing capability.
“This is about backing Australian producers with access to world-class facilities helping them to scale up, innovate and compete in growing domestic and international markets.
“Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector is critical to our agricultural supply chains, food security, exports and regional economies. This Hub is an investment in the future of Australian manufacturing capability.”
Assistant Minister Emma McBride, Member for Dobell siad: “This is a great example of the Albanese Labor Government delivering for Dobell by investing in local jobs, supporting local businesses and helping our region continue to grow.
“We’ve got some incredible food and beverage producers right here on the Coast, and this Hub backs the hardworking local people behind them to grow their businesses, create jobs and reach new markets.
“We’re backing local talent, local industry and local jobs - and that’s good news for the Central Coast.”
