The Toowoomba Manufacturing Hub announced in last week’s State Government Budget will open its doors within weeks.
The hub, which is designed to “turbocharge” manufacturing in the region, will be based at the Toowoomba TAFE college.
Part of a $10 million investment into new manufacturing hubs throughout the State, the Toowoomba hub is designed to help local manufacturers strengthen their industry capability, unlock innovation and drive job creation.
Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the hub would deliver on the Crisafulli Government’s election commitment to support manufacturing in the Darling Downs.
“We promised to deliver a manufacturing hub in Toowoomba, and we are getting on with delivering,” Minister Last said.
“This investment is one of the many ways we’re laying the foundation of a fresh start for Queensland’s economic future, by restoring confidence, backing industry and supporting regional jobs.
“The Toowoomba Hub will focus on supporting the unique strengths and needs of Darling Downs where there is existing regional capability in food and beverage, steel fabrication, advanced composites and specialist engineering products for the resources sector.”
Treasurer and Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki said the hub would help take the region’s industrial capabilities to the next level.
“Investing in the Toowoomba Manufacturing Hub is a major step toward building a stronger manufacturing sector in regional Queensland.
“We want more Queensland-made products, more secure regional jobs, and a stronger, more self-sufficient State.”
Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts said the Crisafulli Government was expanding the footprint of manufacturing hubs across regional Queensland to provide dedicated support to manufacturers.
“Toowoomba is home to more than 1000 manufacturing businesses, making it a critical hub for Queensland’s regional manufacturing economy,” Mr Watts said.
“This hub will ensure manufacturers across the region get the practical, targeted support they need to thrive.”
