Regional Manufacturing Clusters VIC

Purpose and Program Overview

The Regional Manufacturing Clusters VIC program is a strategic initiative designed to bolster the manufacturing landscape in regional Victoria. Its primary objective is to assist manufacturers in specific regional hubs—specifically the Bendigo-Mildura area—to invest in innovation, enhance their technical capabilities, and scale their operations. By fostering a collaborative environment, the program seeks to drive sustainable economic growth, increase local investment, and secure long-term employment opportunities within regional communities.

The program operates as a group-oriented support scheme rather than a traditional individual grant. It emphasizes peer learning and collective problem-solving, encouraging businesses to work together to overcome common industrial challenges. This collaborative approach is intended to strengthen sovereign manufacturing capabilities and ensure that regional businesses remain competitive in both domestic and international markets.

Delivered in partnership with the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) and the Victorian Government, the program aligns with the broader Advancing Victorian Manufacturing statement. It plays a critical role in bridging the gap between individual business aspirations and regional economic priorities, providing the framework necessary for manufacturers to transition toward advanced manufacturing practices and digital transformation.

Key Grant Details

• Grant Type: Group-oriented support and capability building.

• Application Status: Closed (Program rounds are periodic; check official channels for upcoming cycles).

• Eligible Regions: Specifically targets regional Victoria, including Bendigo and Mildura.

• Required Co-contributions: Participants are required to make a financial co-contribution (typically $5,000 per business).

• Eligible Business Types: Regional manufacturing firms with a growth trajectory.

Priority Sectors

The grant is open to a broad range of manufacturing sectors; however, it focuses on those that demonstrate high growth potential and strategic importance to the Victorian economy, including:

• Advanced Manufacturing

• Food and Agribusiness

• Defence and Aerospace

• Medical Technologies

Funding Scope

The program utilizes a majority-funded model by the Victorian Government, supplemented by participant contributions.

• Investment Per Entity: Participating businesses typically invest $5,000 toward the cost of the program.

• Program Structure: Support is delivered through two primary streams:

  • Collaborative Business Improvement Program: Targeting approximately 10 businesses per regional hub to improve operational efficiency.

  • Innovation Culture Program: Focusing on larger entities to embed a culture of innovation and long-term strategic growth.

• Project Timeline: Generally delivered over a two-year period focused on quantifiable outcomes and peer learning.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Regional Manufacturing Clusters program, applicants must generally meet the following requirements:

• Business Size: Must have 55 or more employees (specifically for the Bendigo-Mildura cluster).

• Location: Must be a registered business physically located in and around the designated regional hubs (e.g., Bendigo-Mildura).

• Legal Status: Must hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST.

• Entity Exclusions: Commonwealth, State, and Local Government agencies and bodies are ineligible.

• Growth Potential: Must demonstrate a clear trajectory for growth and a commitment to regional investment.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

Funding and support under this program are directed toward:

• Innovation Investment: Implementing new technologies and advanced manufacturing processes.

• Capability Development: Training and upskilling staff to meet modern industry standards.

• Collaborative Projects: Engaging in group-based learning and supply chain integration.

• Strategic Planning: Developing business cases for future capital investment and export growth.

Assessment Process

The program is typically competitive due to limited spots available per cluster (e.g., 5 to 10 businesses per region). Evaluation is based on:

• Project Merit: The potential for the business to innovate and grow.

• Strategic Alignment: How well the business’s goals align with regional economic priorities.

• Value for Money: The projected impact on jobs and investment relative to the support provided.

Recent Program Updates

• Historical Context: The program has successfully supported clusters in Ballarat-Warrnambool, Bendigo-Mildura, Shepparton-Echuca, Traralgon-Morwell, and Wodonga-Wangaratta.

• Current Status: While recent rounds have closed, the Victorian Government continues to monitor regional manufacturing needs under the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.

Application Tips

• Verify Employee Counts: Ensure your business meets the specific “55+ employees” threshold required for the Bendigo-Mildura cluster.

• Prepare Documentation: Have your financial statements and business growth plans ready to demonstrate your “growth trajectory.”

• Focus on Collaboration: Clearly articulate how your participation will benefit not just your firm, but the broader regional manufacturing ecosystem.

• Consult Specialists: Professional advice can help ensure your application aligns perfectly with the government’s current economic priorities.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting a grant specialist like Pattens Group for a personalised eligibility assessment and expert assistance in preparing a strong, compliant and competitive application. Contact us today and get connected with Australia’s best grant specialist, boasting over 35 years of experience in the industry and a 100% success rate. For official guidelines, application details, templates, and further information, visit the official website of Regional Development Victoria and other associated Australian government websites.