Australian Precision Technologies (APT) in Berwick received a visit from Victoria Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan and Member for Narre Warren South Judith Graley on 30 May for the annoucement of more than $500,000 in grants under the Automotive Supply Chain Transition Program (ASCTP).

The Labor Government led by Premier Daniel Andrews is helping Victorian companies impacted by the closure of automotive manufacturing to transform the way they do business and open up new opportunities. The ASCTP helps auto businesses plan for the future, identify new markets and create a transition plan.

APT produces customised and high-precision components for the automotive, aeronautics and defence industries, and will use its grant to develop a workforce strategy. The company is one of 12 businesses sharing in $504,000 in funding from ASCTP. Other recipients include:

  • Ceramet (Delacombe)
  • Mackay Consolidated Industries (Moorabbin East)
  • Entegro Group (Brooklyn)
  • Woodbridge Australia Group (Laverton North)
  • Decor Engineering (Seaford)
  • Futec (Brighton East)
  • A Bending Company (Dandenong South)
  • ABC Specialty Metals (Hallam)
  • Excellent Plating Works (Moorabbin)
  • TI Automotive Australia (Dandenong South)
  • Diversitile (Thomastown)

“As automotive manufacturing winds down, local supply chain businesses need to plan for change,” said Noonan. “These grants help companies identify future markets, plan for transition and ensure their workforce is sustainable.”

“Melbourne’s southeast is home to many proud automotive supply chains,” added Graley. “And we’ll continue to get behind them to create and protect jobs and help them secure new business opportunities.”

Supply chain companies can apply for up to $16,000 to develop a transition plan, and further funding of up to $55,000 to implement changes. To date, ASCTP has provided $1.5m worth of assistance, supporting 40 companies and 56 projects. The State Government has launched more than $50m in initiatives to support workers, businesses and communities impacted by the closure of automotive manufacturing.

Automotive supply chain companies interested in the ASCTP can visit www.business.vic.gov.au/asctp or call Business Victoria on 13 22 15.