A new innovative food manufacturing centre, which is set to open in Western Australia, will help boost local food and beverage manufacturing, as well as drive growth in the state’s value-added food production.
The WA government has invested $12.2 million into the establishment of the Sustainable, Innovative Food Technologies (SIFT) Centre located within the Food Innovation Precinct of WA (FIPWA) in the Peel Business Park at Nambeelup.
The SIFT Centre is projected to grow the state’s local value-added industry, create more than 150 direct jobs, and inject around $100 million into the economy.
In 2021 the state government made an election commitment to build the SIFT Centre and this commitment is now coming to life.
Funded through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), and operated by the Future Food Systems Co-operative Research Centre (RRSCRC) and Murdoch University, the facility is fitted out with the latest in food and beverage manufacturing equipment including a high-pressure processing unit — which is one of only two in the state — used to cold pasteurise foods.
The unit will help extend the shelf life of products while preserving natural nutrition and flavour.
The SIFT Centre is open to all WA food and beverage businesses that are seeking a low-risk environment to scale up production by offering common use of manufacturing equipment at a subsidised rate.
Businesses can test, develop, and produce new and improved value-added food products on a commercial scale to determine market demand and source buyers before investing in their long-term large-scale production and equipment.
To kick start operations at the SIFT Centre, the state government is partnering with the Shire of Murray to provide a $3.8 million Enterprise Support Program.
The program is offering grants of up to $600,000, provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis, to food and beverage businesses to use FIPWA to commercialise a product, undertake collaborative research and development, or utilise manufacturing equipment, or to access other FIPWA space, facilities and services.
WA Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said: “The SIFT Centre will help remove some financial risk for small business owners – allowing them to test and refine products at a commercial scale, without having to invest in their equipment.
“I encourage small business owners looking to expand production to visit FIPWA and investigate the grants on offer,” said Jarvis.
More information on the Enterprise Support Program is available at fipwa.com.au/enterprisesupportprogram.
The SIFT Centre will officially open on Friday, 23 February 2024.
 acknowledges the government’s recently announced $10 billion housing fund initiative to construct 30,000 new homes in the next five years as a positive initial step in addressing the immediate housing needs of Australia. However, this vision needs to encompass not just housing, but the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure to effectively support population growth. *The Intergenerational Report 2023*, recently released by the Treasurer of Australia, echoes this necessity, outlining the critical role of infrastructure in supporting socio-economic development and enabling economic and productivity growth. It highlights the continued and increasing investment in infrastructure to help reduce congestion and ensure the smooth, efficient movement of goods and people nationally and internationally. These measures are instrumental in enhancing connectivity, providing access to employment, healthcare, education, and community activities. CJC Management believes that true, sustainable growth requires a far-reaching, holistic approach. While appreciative of the government's focus on housing, the company recognises that extensive and collaborative efforts are needed beyond this sector. CJC Management Group Managing Director Colin Calder said: “The $10 billion housing fund and the Federal Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure expenditure give us a framework upon which we can construct a strong and resilient infrastructure for Australia. As the report suggests, a strategic review of the Infrastructure Investment Program and enhanced planning and coordination with states and territories are essential to improve the quality and sustainability of long-term infrastructure spending.” The Australian engineering and construction industry is changing, especially in regards to the management of project delivery risks. Calder believes that to adapt to this changing landscape, “Organisations will need to establish robust governance, incorporate thorough risk management practices, and employ advanced digital systems for accurate reporting and forecasting. Early engagement with contractors and the adoption of adaptable, performance-incentivised delivery models will be crucial for navigating this emerging industry scenario efficiently.” The construction industry continues to face numerous challenges, including escalated material costs, labour issues, and supply chain disruptions, which are contributing to poor project performance. According to KPMG, with only half of the projects being completed on time, contractors worldwide including in Australia, are under significant pressure. Despite these obstacles, there’s a substantial opportunity for improvement in the sector. Organisations handling major projects should prioritise proper delivery and procurement models, precise cost estimates, and realistic schedules. Emphasis should also be on comprehensive risk management, cost analysis, fair risk distribution, efficient project management offices, solid governance, integrated project controls, and utilising data analytics and technology to boost project performance and productivity. A growing trend is evident as the construction industry increasingly adopts diverse technologies including mobile platforms, AI, and robotic process automation. Alongside the notable surge in modular or offsite manufacturing, these advanced technologies and methods are poised to markedly enhance the industry's efficiency and overall performance. Emphasising the importance of advanced tools, the sector is turning its attention towards project management information systems, integrated project controls, building information models, and sophisticated data analytics to amplify return on investment in construction projects. ESG considerations are emerging as a central focus not just in Australia, but globally in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Organisations are actively urging the industry to embrace more environmentally sustainable practices. Calder said: “This push is resulting in a significant shift with industry leaders establishing ambitious targets for reducing carbon footprints, waste, and pollution and heightening biodiversity awareness.” In addition, there is a marked effort to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry, all factors that are vital for future success. . “We are beginning to witness the industry not just talk about, but also act upon the belief that a diverse workforce is pivotal for enhancing project resilience. There is still a long way to go but, this industry approach effectively tackles disruption, brings fresh skills and perspectives to the forefront, and adeptly handles challenges tied to scheduling, remote working, and job site travel. To ensure continued progress, the industry needs to hold firm in its commitment to fostering inclusivity, investing in training and development, and implementing policies that support a diverse and equitable workplace,” said Calder. As Australia takes steps toward infrastructural improvement, Calder concludes that it is vital for the entire industry to look beyond traditional construction. “The inclusion of digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and workforce diversity is essential for the journey ahead. Together with other industry leaders, CJC Management is ready to share insights and collaborate extensively to ensure that our collective infrastructure robustly meets future demands and challenges particularly as our population grows,” said Calder.](https://www.buildaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/shutterstock_1108946396_edited-1000x667-1.jpg)
