Businesses in Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo will have better access to research expertise to grow jobs, create investment opportunities and boost productivity thanks to new funding from the Andrews Labor Government.

Visiting Bartlett’s Environmental in Geelong today, Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan announced funding of up to $650,000 to support the Regional Industry Collaboration Program (RICP).

The program will provide brokerage services and seed funding to facilitate industry research projects between leading universities and businesses.

Those projects will see companies given access to new research and technologies, facilities and expertise at institutions in regional Victoria – including Deakin University.

Bartlett’s Environmental – a family-run waste management company – has used industry research projects to explore new technologies and improve their business.

The program is open to businesses in Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo which operate across the Labor Government’s priority growth sectors – including new energy technologies, food and fibre, transport, defence, construction and manufacturing.

RICP will be led by the Geelong Manufacturing Council, and is part of the Government’s Future Industries Fund supporting jobs, investment and export growth.

Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo are home to more than 30,000 businesses that employ 164,300 people.

Quote attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan

“We’re helping businesses in Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat embark on industry research projects that will create jobs, improve productivity and attract new investment.”

Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren

“This is about creating local jobs and new opportunities – linking local companies with the likes of Deakin University gives them a new perspective to expand their businesses and grow their workforce.”

Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“Geelong is home to 16,000 businesses that play a critical role in driving Victoria’s economy – and we’re proud to support their future growth.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney

“By connecting businesses in Victoria’s west to our brightest research minds, we’re opening up new opportunities for skilled jobs and investment.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville

“There are many proud businesses across Geelong and the Bellarine which will benefit from industry research projects, and I look forward to watching them take advantage of this program.”