Victoria's most advanced and innovative manufacturers are being encouraged to nominate for the 2024 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards, supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins today opened nominations for this year's awards - the state's largest celebration of local manufacturers, recognizing individuals and companies that embrace new technologies, excel in business innovation, drive exports and boost the state's economy.
There will be 14 awards presented including 'Leader in Construction Technologies', 'Leader in Health Technologies', 'Leader in Textile, Clothing and Footwear', 'Leader in Transport and Rail', 'Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year', the flagship 'Leader in Manufacturing' and the new category for 2024 'Leader in Gender Equality and Inclusion'.
Now in its 22nd year, the awards are an opportunity for industry leaders and newcomers to come together and share their achievements.
Last year's awards saw Think Fencing from the Bellarine Peninsula inducted to the Hall of Fame as the 2023 'Leader in Manufacturing', recognising their work in manufacturing innovative polymer fencing technologies using recycled materials.
Elizabeth Lewis-Gray from Gekko Systems was added to the 'Honour Roll for Service to Industry' last year, celebrating her industry leadership and contribution to global mining technologies and minerals processing.
Victoria's $33.5 billion manufacturing sector is a driving force of the state's economy and is made up of more than 23,000 businesses, supporting around 260,000 jobs and exporting $23.9 billion worth of goods.
The Labor Government is investing in the future of Victorian manufacturing through a range of initiatives including the $20 million Manufacturing and Industry Sovereignty Fund, the Industry and R&D Infrastructure Fund and the Made in Victoria - Manufacturing Growth Program.
Nominations close on Monday, 17 June and winners will be announced at a gala dinner in October.
To nominate for the awards visit business.vic.gov.au/halloffame.
As stated by Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins
"These awards shine a spotlight on our brightest manufacturing talent and I encourage individuals and businesses to nominate and get recognised for their achievements."
"Victoria is the home of advanced manufacturing in Australia and we're continuing to support this sector because we know how critical it is to growing our economy and creating great local jobs."
