By NOEL MURPHY
UP TO 150 new jobs will be generated at Deakin University’s new-tech Carbon Revolution centre at Waurn Ponds.
A $5 million injection from federal and state governments and Ford will help create the jobs in manufacturing carbon-fibre wheels.
The grant will allow Carbon Revolution to develop a $23.8 million manufacturing facility to supply the global automotive industry.
Carbon Rev hopes to seal a deal with a big international car-maker to fit its wheels as standard equipment on some models but has yet to name the brand.
Carbon Revolution is the world’s first commercial manufacturer of carbon-fibre wheels for cars.
Premier Denis Napthine said the company was one of Geelong’s many success stories.
“Carbon Revolution has a bright future here in Geelong making quality carbon fibre products for the automotive industry,” he said.
“This strategic partnership builds on the positive work my Government has already undertaken in providing Carbon Revolution with a previous grant of $250,000 leading to the creation of 20 new full-time jobs.
“These new investments in manufacturing show Victoria’s capabilities in driving innovation in advanced manufacturing, food processing and services and a wide range of industrial and consumer products.”
Ford Australia president Bob Graziano said the company, which ceases manufacturing in Geelong in 2016, was “absolutely committed to transforming” its Australian business, “including supporting employees directly affected by our changes”.
Corangamite MP Sarah Henderson said the project was “a perfect example of the sort of work that the Geelong region can excel in as our economy transitions and modernises”.
