Nominations open for Victoria’s top manufacturing awards

NOMINATIONS have opened for this year’s Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards and manufacturers across the state are encouraged to enter.

The annual awards are an initiative of the Victorian government and are the state’s largest celebration of local manufacturers, recognising those that embrace new technologies, excel in business innovation, drive exports and boost the state’s economy.

Now in its 22nd year, awards will be presented across 14 categories including the flagship Leader in Manufacturing Award, and new award category, the Leader in Gender Equality and Inclusion Award.

Two local businesses were recognised in last year’s awards.

Portarlington-based polymer fencing manufacturer Think Fencing was inducted into the Hall of Fame as the 2023 Leader in Manufacturing, while Farm Foods, based in Breakwater, won the Manufacturer of the Year for medium sized businesses.

“These awards shine a spotlight on our brightest manufacturing talent, and I encourage individuals and businesses to nominate and get recognised for their achievements,” jobs and industry minister Natalie Hutchins said.

“Victoria is the home of advanced manufacturing in Australia and we’re continuing to support this sector because we know how critical it is to growing our economy and creating great local jobs.”

A series of online information sessions for prospective nominees will also be held this month.

The first will be held today (Friday, May 10), followed by May 13, 17 and 20.

Nominations will close on Monday, June 17 and this year’s winners will be announced at a gala dinner on Wednesday, October 9.

For more information, to nominate for the awards or register for an online information session, head to business.vic.gov.au/halloffame