Business Transformation Voucher Program

The Hon. T.T. NGO (15:06): I have a question for the Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation. Can the minister tell the house about the government's Business Transformation vouchers and how they are growing South Australian business and industry?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation) (15:07): I thank the honourable member for his important question and continued interest in programs designed to support industry in South Australia. The South Australian government's Business Transformation Voucher Program was established in 2014 to support South Australian companies to improve their efficiency, productivity and international competitiveness. We have committed $4.5 million to this program, which will run until June 2017, to support business growth and businesses growing their market share and, in turn, having a positive impact not only on retaining jobs in the economy, but establishing the right conditions to create new industries and jobs in the future.

The program is targeted at companies to assist them in accessing specialised expertise, to identify business and manufacturing process improvements, marketing and brand strategy, business model development, business planning, management training and mentoring, export readiness, and implementing business review recommendations.

I can advise the council that in the most recent round of grants, $160,000 was awarded to a number of successful applicants. Electrolux Home Products is a leading South Australian manufacturer that has been manufacturing quality products since 1853. I am advised that the company currently employs over 500 staff at its Dudley Park manufacturing facility.

I had the opportunity to visit the Dudley Park site earlier this year and was impressed by the world-class facility and, in conversation with the general manager, Ed Lawley, was pleased to learn that the company is continuing to perform strongly in this state. Electrolux has five oven assembly production processes that consolidate into one line for testing and packaging, and it is expected that around 290,000 individual units will be processed through the plant each year.

The $50,000 grant provided to Electrolux will deliver a project with Sage Automation to identify operational improvements to the production line which is anticipated to enable the company to increase its efficiency and capacity. I look forward to learning of the progress of this project when I next have the opportunity to visit the facility.

Eire Cafe was established in 2013 and specialises in the manufacture of artisan chunky-style pies that are sold raw-frozen. The company was successful in its application for a grant of $25,000 with Baker Marketing to develop a strategic marketing plan. Also, Moo Premium Foods was established in 2005 and has developed its wide range of premium flavoured yoghurts and puddings to now supply nationally to supermarkets, independent retailers, cafes and hotels.

The government has provided a $35,000 grant to Moo Premium Foods for a project with SAGE Automation. SAGE will provide an independent expert review of manufacturing and packaging processes to identify real opportunities to improve the company's operations. I understand a study will be undertaken to investigate the feasibility of establishing a new purpose-built facility that will support the continued growth of Moo Premium Foods into the future.

The Business Transformation Voucher Program continues to support South Australian companies committed to transforming their businesses to improve their efficiency, productivity and international competitiveness. The government is committed to assisting businesses grow their market share and, in turn, creating growth and jobs for South Australians. I congratulate these companies; they are some of the companies who have had successful applications under the Business Transformation Program.