For many years, the Hunter has been the heart and soul of countless industries within Australia.
And, the region had the perfect opportunity to showcase numerous investment opportunities in defence, aerospace, energy and manufacturing on the international stage this past week.
A NSW Government-led trade mission, consisting of ambassadors from 14 countries and the European Union (EU), made a beeline to our nation’s newest defence and aerospace precinct at Astra Aerolab (Williamtown), as well as Bohemia Interactive (Williamtown), Ampcontrol (Tomago), Newcastle Institute for Energy & Resources (NIER – Shortland) and the CSIRO Energy Centre (Mayfield) on Thursday 15 and Friday 16 April.
The delegation included representatives from Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the EU, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic and Spain.
From participating in military grade virtual reality training simulations to viewing the world’s first integrated hybrid hydrogen battery, from gaining an insight into Newcastle’s state-of-the-art mineral innovation to learning about breakthrough (battery) technology powering safety improvements for mining and defence, the envoy appeared impressed by what it witnessed.
“This was the fifth trade mission in three years and part of a targeted investment strategy that’s making regional NSW a preferred choice for global investors,” NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro said.
“Showcasing the Hunter region’s investment opportunities to key global decision-makers will help forge new relationships for local businesses, inject money into the economy, create new jobs and drive growth.
“Universal companies have shown renewed interest in regional NSW off the back of our strong response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“And, we’re already hearing from some looking to expand operations locally and invest in our technology.”
Over the two days, the delegates received a taste of the cutting-edge work being undertaken by BAE Systems on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the ground-breaking research into the critical minerals industry at NIER, a sneak peak of LAVO’s world-first integrated hybrid hydrogen battery at Ampcontrol and the premier manufacturing and viticulture industries of the Hunter.
“Since September 2018, the NSW Government’s targeted regional investment attraction strategy has secured business investment of $268 million and created more than 1000 jobs in regional NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.
“The Hunter’s skilled workforce, access to markets and top-notch research and development centres make it an ideal location for business to thrive.
“I’m thrilled to show this corner of the world to potential international investors.”
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