A new electronics manufacturing facility has been inaugurated in Brendale with funding assistance from the Queensland Government as part of efforts to uplift the economic situation which took a hit from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd and Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher launched the new state-of-the-art production plant at Elexon Electronics on 15 July 2020.
Elexon received $891,325 from the $46-million Made in Queensland (MiQ) program. The leading Brisbane engineering and electronics maker invested a total of $2 million to build the new production facility.
“Pre COVID-19 the company had growing demand from customers who were wishing to manufacture onshore,” said Elexon CEO Frank Faller.
The demand has since increased as the coronavirus health scare grew since many customers failed to source or ship because of restrictions and as manufacturers abroad also felt the impact of the pandemic.
“In order to expand our production capabilities, Elexon Electronics heavily invested in a state-of-the-art, automated surface-mount technology (SMT) equipment from the leading European electronics machinery producers Mycronic and Asscon,” Mr Faller said.
“The intelligent material handling system and an X-Ray inspection for ultimate quality assurance set us apart from the competition.”
Boosting Local Jobs
Elexon also recognises the grant’s importance in helping keep existing manufacturing jobs in Queensland.
“Despite the difficult global economic environment we find ourselves in, programs like Made in Queensland are helping local manufacturers to expand their businesses and employ more Queenslanders,” said Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd.
“Elexon is a great local example of how our government’s continued support of Queensland manufacturers is helping them to navigate tough global economic conditions and find new opportunities to grow and prosper.”
“In addition, the grant has ensured Elexon can continue onshore manufacturing and positioned the company to plan for future expansion.
“This is great news because it means more jobs for locals.”
Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher said that Elexon’s manufacturing line upgrade allows the company to double its productivity while reducing costs to stay competitive.
“The company has been able to put on two new full-time workers, upskill six existing workers and retain its full workforce as a result of the MiQ project.
“Elexon are also partnering with companies to assist in high-tech product development from wildlife tracking equipment, ground movement measuring systems, to precision water testing.”
Mr Faller said that the grant from the state government not only helps to keep industrial jobs in the region, but it also allows Elexon to cater to new markets such as the aerospace and defence industry.