Arthur Sinodinos (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science) Share this | Hansard source

The new $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund is just the latest in a series of funds and programs rolled out by this government to support the automotive sector. It expands on the $155 million growth fund to support employees, businesses and regions most affected by the closure of manufacturing in Australia.

The car companies will continue with an import sales model and with more focus on high-end research and design, the $29.5 million Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund and the $24.5 million Melbourne North Innovation and Investment Fund that support innovative job-creation projects that strengthen and diversify these regions, and the $473 million Entrepreneurs Program, which continues to provide tailored advice and support to businesses not only in this sector but across the country. The government also supports industry through the growth centres, the R&D tax incentive and other initiatives, and of course the Automotive Transformation Scheme will continue until 2020. (Time expired)