Maria Vamvakinou today congratulated Campbellfield company, Techni Waterjet Pty Ltd on being offered a $499,003 Climate Ready grant by the Rudd Government to help develop its Waterjet Cutting System project.

The Climate Ready program offers matching grants from $50,000 to $5 million to help develop innovative solutions to climate change challenges.

“The project is to design and develop a novel and highly efficient Waterjet Cutting System,” Ms Vamvakinou said.

“The successful completion of the project is anticipated to generation substantial carbon emission and water savings.”

“This project will not only help combat climate change, but boost the local economy by supporting local jobs in these tough economic times.”

Techni Waterjet Pty Ltd was one of 19 Australian businesses to be offered Climate Ready grants, totalling $16.4 million and supporting 189 jobs, recently announced by Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr.

“It’s great that Techni Waterjet is leading the way in creating industries and workforces of the future through this project,” Ms Vamvakinou said.

“The local environmental and economic benefits come at a time when they are needed most.

“The effects of climate change are already making themselves felt and it’s great to see companies like Techni Waterjet acting now to find solutions.”

Climate Ready is delivered by AusIndustry – which is responsible for more than 30 programs to help Australian businesses.  Programs include:  innovation grants, tax and duty concessions, small business development and venture capital.  The closing date for the next funding round is 25^th June.

For further information on the Climate Ready program, visit AusIndustry’s website at www.ausindustry.gov.au or call the hotline on 13 28 46.