The Queensland government has officially opened the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub at Central Queensland University’s Rockhampton campus.
The hub, a centre of expertise for advanced manufacturing innovation and skills, has been operational since April 2019, and is one of three manufacturing hubs delivered by the Queensland government as part of a total $30 million investment.
The government has made available $13.5 million through its Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program to assist eligible businesses. Up to $4.5 million is available for each manufacturing hub to build the advanced manufacturing capability of the Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton regions.
State manufacturing minister Cameron Dick said that the hub at Rockhampton would further strengthen the region’s thriving manufacturing sector, helping boost private sector investment and create more jobs.
“Local manufacturers will gain access to business development programs, skills and training and equipment through the Central Queensland University campus,” Dick said.
“By focusing on Central Queensland’s key manufacturing strengths of rail, metal production and food innovation, the hub is ensuring it’s full steam ahead for local industry.”
CQUniversity Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Alastair Dawson said the hub would be strongly linked to the university and its facilities such as the Centre for Railway Engineering.
“Co-locating the hub on CQUniversity’s Rockhampton North campus will give local manufacturers direct access to our world-class facilities,” Dawson said.
“This will give industry in Central Queensland the opportunity to invest in upskilling and building the workforce of tomorrow.”
Rockhampton manufacturing company SMW Group’s managing director Jack Trenaman said the hub would be a great asset to the region and to local businesses looking to upskill and scale up.
“Establishing this new hub means local manufacturers can access funding opportunities, advice and training to make our region’s businesses bigger and better,” Trenaman said.
“And the more local businesses grow their capabilities, the more jobs we’re creating for the Rocky region.”