$20m funding boost to set up robotics facility
PERTH: Amira Global has welcomed a $20 million investment by the West Australian government into the development of a robotics and automation test facility and precinct at Neerabup, north of Perth.
The funding will assist with setting up the Neerabup Automation and Robotics test facility, a major Amira Global initiative designed to support research and development, and accelerate the adoption and implementation of technology.
Amira Global CEO Jacqui Coombes said the stimulus package announced by Premier Mark McGowan yesterday was a win for research and industry in Western Australia.
"We are delighted with the announcement and congratulate the McGowan Government on its approach to safeguarding the State's future," Ms Coombes said.
"The test facility is essential for advancing the development and integration of technology in automation, robotics and analytics in the mining sector. This will have benefits for all Australians.
"With the government recognising the need for the test facility it enables Amira to fast-track the first stage of the test facility to help mining companies during the COVID-19 crisis."
Amira Global is an independent not-for-profit organisation representing members globally from the resources industry seeking to enhance, sustain and deliver transformational research and development, innovation and implementation to the benefit of society.
Ms Coombes, who is based in Perth, said the test facility would help develop the research for integrating industry 6.0 technologies and associated capabilities into the future of mining. It will form part of the proposed 94-hectare precinct at Neerabup.
"The Neerabup Automation and Robotics Precinct will also provide stimulus for cluster development in this sector, which will advance business capability for our resource service providers."
