A $20.7 million investment for the Future Industries Facility in Newcastle will further establish the city as a hub for innovation.

The Albanese Government has today announced the University of Newcastle is a successful recipient under its regional Precincts and Partnerships program to construct two industrial scale spaces for technology innovation.

The facility will enable the university to provide a problem-solving centre for community and small businesses at a purpose-built innovation facility within its Next Gen Precinct.

It will accommodate up to 16 academic-industry partnerships for rapid technology co-development from research to market across the energy, resources and manufacturing sectors, and the net zero economy.

Focusing on accelerating resource sustainability, workforce training and productivity solutions, the facility will contribute an estimated 740 direct and indirect jobs.

It will also provide students the experience of working on prototyping products for manufacture, and give small to medium sized enterprises the ability to collocate and test technology.

This project showcases the Government’s commitment to listening to and working with local communities and addressing regional needs.

It is funded through the Albanese Government’s regional Precincts and Partnership Program, which is investing $47.9 million to support the transformation of seven precincts across New South Wales.  

The regional Precincts and Partnerships Program is providing investment to transform regional, rural and remote places. For more information, visit: Regional Australia.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“My Government is building Australia’s future, today announcing we will deliver more than $20.7 million for the Future Industries Facility at the University of Newcastle.

“This project will boost education, employment and training opportunities for Newcastle and the surrounding region.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“The Future Industries Facility will build on Newcastles vital role as an industrial powerhouse and source of skilled workers.

“Our investment will train the next generation in the latest practices in energy, resources and manufacturing, preparing them for a net-zero future.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting our city with this new facility set to bolster the University of Newcastle.

“Focusing on accelerating resource sustainability, workforce training, and productivity, the Future Industries Facility will contribute an estimated 740 direct and indirect jobs.

“This investment will secure a bright future for our region, strengthening partnerships between the university and local industry, and equipping graduates with the latest skills and practices, as we prepare for the net zero economy.”