Federal funding awarded to eight collaborative METS projects
The Federal Government is supporting the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) sector, with funding of more than $4 million going into eight new projects
The grants under Tranche 3 of the METS Ignited Project Funds initiative will be boosted by a further $6.9 million cash contribution from industry, with this round focussing on robotics and automation.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the program encourages Australian METS companies to work together, with funding support from an end-user, such as a mining company.
“Australia’s METS Growth Centre, METS Ignited, is strengthening Australia’s position as a global hub for mining innovation and boosting the competitive advantage of the industry, to grow our economy and create more jobs," Minister Andrews said.
The Liberal National Government has provided $15.6m over four years (2015-19) to the Project Funds initiative to support collaboration and innovation, and address METS sector priorities.
“We (the Coalition) recognise this sector generates billions of dollars in revenue each year, employs about 500,000 people and exports to all corners of the globe.”
The Coalition’s plan for a stronger economy has already helped create over 1.25 million jobs since they came into Government in 2013. Their target to help create a further 1.25 million jobs over the next five years will be boosted by sectors like METS, which foster economic growth.
