New Advanced Manufacturing hub in Geelong

A new $20 million innovation hub in Geelong funded by the Andrews Labor Government will establish the region as the nation’s leading advanced manufacturing precinct and create more than 170 jobs.

Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney said, “We are proud to be investing in this exciting project that will boost local jobs, grow the economy and put Geelong at the heart of advanced manufacturing in Australia.”

“This project is a great example of what the Higher Education State Investment Fund is all about – giving Victorians more opportunities, strengthening the skills and training sector, creating jobs and boosting the economy.”

The facility, called ManuFutures2, will be the second hub of its kind built at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus and will help to accelerate innovations in manufacturing. Products manufactured at the site include the world’s lightest and strongest carbon fibre road bike wheels, enhanced fabrics used for athletic clothing and equipment, and smart sensors to improve water management on farms.

ManuFutures2 will include a product engineering development laboratory and six adaptable spaces for tenants to develop, field test and manufacture products to market. “Geelong is a proud manufacturing city and through the ongoing efforts of Deakin University we are transitioning to high-tech innovations that will secure jobs and prosperity for our region for decades to come,” the member for South Barwon, Darren Cheeseman told us.

The facility will create 172 jobs in areas like construction and manufacturing, double the number of resident start-up companies to 26, and support research and work opportunities for Deakin University staff and students and provide a space for the community to attend events and training. “This project is a great example of what the Higher Education State Investment Fund is all about – giving Victorians more opportunities, strengthening the skills and training sector, creating jobs and boosting the economy,” Ms Tierney said.

Planning for the project is already well advanced, with construction to begin in September 2021 and take about eight months.

ManuFutures2 received $10 million from the Labor Government and is one of many pitches from universities to the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, which was developed in response to the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the sector. Deakin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said, “This project is a great example of how universities, governments and the private sector can work together – and it will link-in and enhance Geelong’s existing strengths.”

The unprecedented $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund is supporting universities with capital works, research infrastructure projects and applied research focused on boosting Victoria’s productivity and economy as the state recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.