A feasibility study carried out by registered Aboriginal business Keogh Bay has found a strong case for manufacturing and maintaining iron ore railcar wagons and components in WA.
The study was commissioned as part of the Western Australian Government's commitment to boost local manufacturing, creating a pipeline of jobs.
The Iron Ore Railcar Wagons Manufacturing and Maintenance Action Group, formed by iron ore project proponents, steel fabricators, industry associations and trade union representatives, provided feedback for the full feasibility study.
Key findings included significant capacity among local suppliers and a sound case for the local supply of multiple components. The report also outlined the importance of innovation by local manufacturers to improve the efficiency and performance of wagons.
Another finding was the potential for reducing carbon emissions through less reliance on overseas suppliers.
The study's findings are the first steps in securing an ongoing stream of work in manufacturing iron ore wagons, which will deliver jobs and economic benefits for WA into the future.
The WA Government has established a $15m Local Manufacturing Investment Fund to help existing businesses build iron ore wagons locally as part of the WA Jobs Plan.
Find out more about manufacturing iron ore railcar wagons and components in WA.
