The New South Wales government has revealed a new AU$6 million funding initiative designed to support manufacturers in adopting cutting-edge technologies, driving productivity, and securing high-value industrial jobs across the state.
The program targets key growth sectors, including clean energy, medtech, defence, aerospace, transport, and construction manufacturing.
The fund is structured across two distinct phases to support businesses from planning through to deployment. The first stage is a grant program with AU$1 million in available funding. The program offers grants between AU$10,000 and AU$50,000 to assist manufacturers with feasibility studies, process testing, pilot projects, and equipment assessments.
The second stage will offer a AU$5 million grant pool opening in early 2027 to help businesses scale operations and integrate new manufacturing technologies.
Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos noted the importance of backing local industry against international competition.
“The Innovative Manufacturing Adoption Fund will support local manufacturers with new ideas and help them transition to a secure future through innovation and technology,” Houssos said.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong added that the initiative aims to bridge the gap between local innovation and commercial adoption, ensuring more products are designed and built within the state.
“Backing local manufacturing isn’t just about supporting today’s businesses. It’s about building the industrial capability NSW will need for decades to come,” the minister added.
Industry leaders have welcomed the financial backing. Australian Industry Group Head of NSW Helen Waldron highlighted that manufacturing reinvests 4.1 per cent of its value-added back into research and development, the highest rate of any Australian sector, and urged local businesses to apply.
Stage 1 applications close on 6 October 2026, or earlier if funding is fully allocated.
