$108 million CRC Encourages High-End Manufacturing

25 May 09

A $108 million Advanced Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre, officially launched on Friday by Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr, is working hard to foster increased collaboration, innovation, and productivity among Australia's high-end manufacturers.

Launching the CRC at ANCA, a world-leading manufacturer of computer controlled precision grinding machines, Senator Carr said:

"The future of Australian manufacturing lies in boosting our competitive advantage, with more focus on high-tech, high-skill, innovative-manufacturing.

"The Advanced Manufacturing CRC is off to an impressive start with up to $30 million worth of projects in the pipeline since becoming fully operational in September last year.

"Over the life of the centre, the Australian Government's $35 million investment - along with the $73 million contribution from collaborating partners - will realise an estimated $523 million in new business and economic activity.

"The centre focuses on increased collaboration, innovation and productivity across sectors like energy, defence, health, aerospace and mining.

"This centre is offering the kind of practical assistance industry needs, like enhancing the skills base of workers.

"It will provide over 100 PhD places to educate next generation manufacturing entrepreneurs, researchers and engineers as part of its research programs.

"The centre is based in Melbourne but has a truly national outlook with a node in Sydney and plans for other nodes in Adelaide and Brisbane.

"With its overseas client base, launch host ANCA is a good example of what the Rudd Government is striving for - Australian manufacturers and researchers working together to create new high-tech jobs and industries."

For further information about the CRC visit: www.amcrc.com.au

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