- Early Planning for a proposed Advanced
Manufacturing and Technology Hub (AMTECH) for the South-West takes next
steps
- Deloitte to deliver feasibility study
and business case for proposed facility, supported by the Cook Government
- Appointment builds on preliminary
assessment report and industry consultation
A vision to establish an advanced manufacturing and
technology hub in the South-West is one step closer to reality, with the Cook
Government moving forward with planning for the proposed facility.
Regional Development Minister Don Punch today
announced Deloitte as the successful tenderer to deliver a detailed feasibility
study and business case for a possible Advanced Manufacturing and Technology
Hub (AMTECH).
The appointment represents the next step in a bid
to create a world-class hub in the Bunbury-Geographe area that would unlock
opportunities for industry in the South-West.
Building on the considerable work undertaken
so far in support of the proposal, Deloitte will investigate the preferred
model, location, structure, and services for an AMTECH.
A detailed project plan, economic benefit
analysis and financial viability plan will be carried out, along with market
demand, feasibility, and engineering design studies.
Planning efforts have so far included a preliminary
assessment report to identify key areas of focus, following industry
consultation that informed preliminary scoping.
It is expected an AMTECH common-user facility would
lift industry competitiveness through providing local businesses with access to
cutting-edge infrastructure, industry 4.0 technology, research, education, and
training.
The South West Development Commission is the lead
agency for the proposal and will continue to work directly with the consultant,
industry and other stakeholders as planning progresses.
Comments attributed to Regional Development
Minister Don Punch:
"Regional Western Australia is the powerhouse
of the State's economy and deserves access to infrastructure, technology and training
that unlocks opportunities for industry.
"I am pleased that planning is moving forward
in support of the vision for an Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub in
the South West.
"This is another great example of industry and
government working together with the aim of producing economic outcomes that
will transform industry prospects and unlock business and quality job
opportunities in the future."
Comments can be
attributed to Chair of
the SW AMTECH steering group Hon Clive Brown:
"This announcement is an exciting step towards delivering an
advanced manufacturing and technology hub for Bunbury and the wider region.
"The State Government has identified technology and advanced
manufacturing as a priority to further help diversify WA's economy and create
jobs.
"I look forward to working closely with government, industry
and the local community to unlock the potential of the South-West's
manufacturing sector through the AMTECH project."
