The Western Australian Government is investing more than $340,000 in revitalising a local railcar manufacturing plant as part of efforts to boost the state’s railcar manufacturing industry.
Western Australian Minister Assisting the State and Industry Development, Jobs and Trade Minister, Stephen Dawson, said the funding had been awarded to Gemco Rail through the government’s Local Manufacturing Investment Fund (LMIF).
Gemco Rail will use the funding to upgrade and modernise its Forrestfield-based railcar manufacturing plant and equipment. The upgrade will assist Gemco Rail to deliver 40 iron ore rail wagons to BHP and position itself for long-term industry involvement.
Gemco Rail was awarded LMIF funding of $6.9 million in May 2023 to assist in establishing a rail manufacturing and maintenance facility in Karratha. This facility is currently being outfitted.
The $15 million LMIF was established by the State Government as part of its 2021 election commitment. More than $13.5 million of LMIF funding has been used to support Western Australian companies to increase their competitiveness and provide efficient and effective service within the local manufacturing sector.
By providing a boost to Western Australia’s rail wagon repair capability, the State Government continues to support the recently released Western Australia: Advancing the Future of Manufacturing prospectus.
Western Australia Minister Assisting the State and Industry Development, Jobs and Trade Minister, Stephen Dawson, said the State Government is focused on building its local manufacturing and maintenance capability to support the creation of more skilled jobs.
“This support for Gemco rail manufacturing and maintenance is another great outcome achieved through our successful Local Manufacturing Investment Fund, which continues to assist and diversify the Western Australia economy.
“Through the LMIF, the State Government is investing in keeping important industries such as railcar manufacturing operating here locally, as well as supporting other local companies throughout the state.
“Having a fully upgraded railcar facility will enable WA to keep up with a rapidly changing industry and ensure our products remain first class.”
