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Minister Ed Husic Highlights Hunter Region’s Role in Australian Manufacturing at Varley Group’s Tomago Facility

today31 October 2024

Background

 

TOMAGO, NSW – Today, the Varley Group in Tomago welcomed the Hon Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science, to celebrate the release of the Australian Industry Group’s (Ai Group) latest Innovation Report. The Minister’s visit spotlighted the Hunter Region’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and underscored the importance of innovation in sustaining Australia’s industrial future.

During the tour, Minister Husic explored Varley’s expansive production floor, which produces everything from emergency response vehicles to mobile defence systems and electric vehicles. In a nod to the growing diversity of manufacturing, he observed firsthand the facility’s state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, including an impressive robotics demonstration highlighting Varley’s commitment to embracing new technology.

Minister Husic engaged with key staff members, including Rebecca Wallis, an Apprentice Auto Electrician; Adam Hackney, the Fabrication Lead Hand; and Nicholas Hutchinson, a Spray Painter. Varley’s leadership team – including CEOs Victor Ugarte (Defence), Jeff Honniball (Vehicles), Mario Rebellato (Services), and Matt Dean (Systems) – led discussions on the company’s forward-looking approach to innovation and its significance for both the Hunter Region and other communities across Australia.

Louise McGrath from Ai Group presented the key findings of the Innovation Report, noting that while Australian industry recognises the critical role of technology investment, challenges such as workforce shortages and regulatory hurdles persist. Minister Husic underscored the importance of addressing these gaps, emphasising that the strength of Australia’s manufacturing sector depends on overcoming such barriers to create a more resilient and adaptable industry.

“This report highlights a vital truth: innovation is not just about machinery and technology – it’s about people, skills, and building an industry that can keep up with global demands while creating jobs right here in Australia,” Minister Husic said.

Varley Group expressed its gratitude for Minister Husic’s visit, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to job creation and regional development. The Hunter Region’s manufacturing sector, they noted, plays a crucial role in supporting Australia’s defence and emergency response capabilities and contributes to the nation’s economic resilience.

For further insights on the Ai Group’s Innovation Report and its implications for Australian industry, visit Australian Industry Group.

 

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Written by: Newy Staff


Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.

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