More government support for automotive supply chain

The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research late last week announced additional funding for the three local manufacturers and their Tier One parts suppliers.

According to the press release issued by the office of the minister, Senator Kim Carr, the funding is provided by grants through the Automotive Supply Chain Development Program and is intended to help the car manufacturers and their allied parts suppliers to expand their business in export markets. The ultimate aim is to secure skilled jobs paying good wages for workers in Australia.

"Australia is proud of its world-class component producers, vehicle producers and suppliers," Senator Carr was quoted as saying at a dinner held by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

"These grants will enhance key capabilities, improve efficiencies and help Australia's auto industry reap the immense rewards that come from a stronger presence in global supply chains.

"The Automotive CRC [Co-operative Research Centre for Advanced Automotive Technology] will receive $4.09 million to continue its work under the Automotive Supplier Excellence Australia program, mentoring and supporting firms across the breadth of the automotive supply chain.

"We are providing $1.16 million to Ford, $2.03 million to Holden and $2.37 million to Toyota to foster even closer collaboration with their own key suppliers.

"And $78,000 has been awarded to EGR Automotive; $125,000 to Futuris; and $100,000 to Toyota Boshoku Australia to help them build closer relationships with their respective Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers."

The announcement delivers a further shot in the arm for the local industry and highlights the government's level of ongoing commitment to the local parts industry.

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