The Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson AM MP, today launched the $14 million Mining Technology Innovation Centre in Mackay, Queensland. The Centre delivers on an election commitment to provide business support services to the mining technology sector.
Minister Ferguson said: "The Mining Technology Innovation Centre fills an important gap in the development of the Australian mining and resources technology sector.
"With the establishment of the Mining Technology Innovation Centre, business development information tailored to the specific needs of the mining technology services sector is now available so small and medium enterprises can grow their businesses. It's not about telling businesses how to innovate; it's about improving business processes, testing new products, and finding new markets.
"Entrepreneurs and innovators often find the day-to-day business development and management issues the most difficult part of their business. The Mining Technology Innovation Centre provides help on this front so that entrepreneurs can do what they do best - create jobs and innovate."
The Mining Technology Innovation Centre will:
- Provide a comprehensive business review of the firm that identifies strengths and weaknesses, strategic business issues, potential areas for business improvement and growth;
- Provide access to grants for addressing areas identified by the review for improvement/growth;
- Find and adapt the latest research and technology to improve their products;
- Provide access to specialist facilities and advice to assist in turning innovative ideas into new products or to test products for new markets;
- Identify new markets for cutting-edge technology;
- Prepare the firm to become export ready, including through developing management and marketing skills; andÂ
- Assist in identifying sources of government support for the firm's activities.
Minister Carr said: "As we ride out the global financial crisis, these business development services take on even greater importance because they will help businesses work smarter.
"The fact is, today's business environment is the toughest we have ever seen for mining technology services but today, it just got a little bit easier."
www.enterpriseconnect.gov.au/Innovation/Pages/MiningTechnologyInnovationCentre.aspx