Victoria has again cemented itself as the nation’s leader in advanced manufacturing with a new partnership between Deakin University and LeMond Composites to revolutionise carbon fibre production.
The Andrews Labor Government today welcomed the $US44 million ($AUD58 million) deal to license world-first technology developed by Deakin’s Carbon Nexus research centre.
The technology will enable carbon fibre to be manufactured using up to 75 per cent less energy – making the process faster and cheaper.
It allow more carbon fibre to be developed for cars, bikes, boats, bridges and laptops, as well as its existing uses for aircraft and aerospace.
LeMond Composites is also considering the development of a carbon fibre manufacturing plant in Geelong, with an investment of more than $30 million in construction and equipment, creating dozens of jobs.
Victoria is the nation’s manufacturing state. The industry contributes around $26 billion to the Victorian economy each year and employs more than 270,000 people.
The Labor Government is finalising the state’s first Advanced Manufacturing Statement, which will outline the future of this important sector.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“This partnership is a game changer – setting a new path for carbon fibre manufacturing to create jobs and reduce energy costs.”
“Victoria is quickly becoming a hub for advanced manufacturing, and developments in carbon fibre will help inform the Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Statement.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“I’m excited to see what Deakin University and LeMond Composites will achieve on a global scale with this world-first technology.”
“This has the potential to create even more advanced technology jobs for Geelong."
Reviewed 19 August 2020