Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub Commences Construction
- Regional Development Australia Central Coast
- Apr 18, 2025
- 2 min read
It’s an exciting milestone as construction begins on the long-anticipated Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub. This transformative $17.14 million project, fully funded by the Australian Government, will position the Central Coast as a premier destination for food manufacturing.
The facility is designed to support both established and scale-up food and beverage businesses and will also include pilot and training spaces dedicated to driving product development, skills training, and innovation. This visionary project is being delivered Central Coast Industry Connect in partnership with Central Coast Council, University of Newcastle and Regional Development Central Coast.
At the heart of the hub will be the newly established Manufacturing Advancement Centre. This Centre will offer a holistic, pragmatic approach to business improvement for both food and non-food manufacturers.
Some of its offerings include
Technical and product development support.
Management and shop floor training programs.
Access to a network of specialised service providers where needed.
Services will be tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
The Hub is slated to be operational by the end of March 2026, however in the lead-up to the facility’s opening, the team has already commenced the development and rollout of industry-led training programs, focusing on Manufacturing Leadership, Product Innovation, and Machine Operation.
Thanks to the support of the University of Newcastle and Regional Development Australia Central Coast, an interim Skills Hub has been established at the university’s Ourimbah campus, complete with newly installed training equipment.
Training is already underway and is open to a wide range of participants, from students and industry professionals to small business owners. The programs will also support broader inclusion by providing training opportunities for women, Aboriginal people, and unemployed individuals who are ready to be part of the region’s manufacturing future.
Media Contacts:
Mr John Mouland
Director Regional Development & Chief Executive Officer
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA CENTRAL COAST
P: 4349 4949 / 0438 695 708
