The Central Coast is about to receive a boost to its local food and beverage manufacturing industry, with construction starting on the $17.14 million Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub, funded by the federal government’s National Reconstruction Fund (NFR).
Championed by not-for-profit manufacturing industry body, Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC), the facility is designed to support both established and scale-up food and beverage businesses and will also include pilot and training spaces dedicated to driving product development, skills training, and innovation. The project was announced in the October 2022 budget, and is set to open early next year.
Source: CCIC
The newly established Manufacturing Advancement Centre will be the heart of the hub, offering a holistic approach to business improvement for both food and non-food manufacturers. The project is being delivered in partnership with Central Coast Council, University of Newcastle and Regional Development Central Coast.
The centre will feature technical and product development support, management and shop floor training programs, and access to a network of specialised service providers, with opportunities tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
CCIC executive director, Frank Sammut, said this was a long-time vision the organisation has had for the Central Coast, and it was great that things are starting to happen.
“Between now and when the hub opens, it is planned to have programs developed, piloted, and proven so we can hit the road running when the hub officially opens,” said Sammut.
Source: CCIC
The hub is slated to be operational by the end of March 2026, but the CCIC team has already commenced the development and rollout of industry-led training programs, focusing on manufacturing leadership, product innovation, and machine operation.
With the support of the University of Newcastle and Regional Development Australia Central Coast, an interim Skills Hub has been established at the university’s Ourimbah campus, complete with newly installed training equipment.
Training is already underway and is open to a wide range of participants, from students and industry professionals to small business owners. The programs will also support broader inclusion by providing training opportunities for women, Aboriginal people, and unemployed individuals who are ready to be part of the region’s manufacturing future.
