Australia’s construction and manufacturing industry will receive funding from the Federal Government to support the prefabricated building industry.
Up to $2 million will be spent to develop a new collaborative lab which aims to help manufacturers design prefabricated buildings that are more sustainable, affordable and reduce construction times.
To help kickstart the new project, the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre will undertake a feasibility study and establish an innovation lab, based on the findings.
An additional $4 million has also been announced to fund the Australian Research Council Training Centre for Advanced Manufacturing of Prefabricated Housing.
Prefabricated construction involves building segments constructed in a factory setting, which are then transported to the work site and assembled.
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Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the new lab would support work on a wide range of buildings, including tiny houses, larger homes and offices and strengthen Australia’s position in the global prefabricated building market.
“This sector is starting to build significant momentum and currently represents 3-5 per cent of Australia’s $150 billion construction industry,” Andrews said.
“This share could grow to 15 per cent by 2025, creating 20,000 new Australian jobs and adding $30 billion to our economy.
“The Federal Government is committed to helping support and grow this emerging industry and ensure Australia seizes this opportunity.”