Darwin-based company, Wurrba, is set to become the first company to offer advanced laser surface cleaning technology in the Territory with support from the CLP Government's Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund.
Minister for Advanced Manufacturing Robyn Cahill said it was a game-changer for the local manufacturing sector as, until now, Territory businesses requiring laser cleaning services had to engage interstate and overseas suppliers.
"Businesses having access to service providers utilising the latest technologies is crucial to the overall health of the Territory's manufacturing ecosystem," said Ms Cahill.
"By co-investing with Wurrba, the NT Government is unlocking new capabilities to support local industries, while generating local jobs and keeping more of the NT's business activity in the Territory."
The technology is faster, cleaner and more environmentally friendly than traditional blasting services.
Raphael Clarke, founder of Wurrba, said: "Laser cleaning will become a critical enabler for the NT's manufacturing and wider industrial ecosystem."
"Through the adoption and deployment of this advanced technology, Wurrba will be able to tackle everything from infrastructure remediation to equipment maintenance, remanufacturing and waste reduction faster, safer and more efficiently than ever before," he said.
AMGC's Northern Territory Director Charmaine Phillips said: "Co-investment in Wurrba will enable the entire Territory manufacturing industry to become more self-sufficient and capable of producing higher-quality products faster, cleaner, and more efficiently than ever before."
Wurrba, in collaboration with Phoenix Laser Cleaning and Restoration and the Darwin Innovation Hub, will leverage Territory skills and equipment to train staff.
Their $1.7 million project is supported by a $410,733 co-investment from the NT Government's AMEF. The project is expected to generate $28 million in revenue and create 30 new jobs across administrative, managerial and skilled roles within its first five years.
Administered by the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, Wurrba's project is the thirteenth business to receive co-investment through the AMEF.
