THE HON PETER DUTTON MP
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
THE HON LLEW O’BRIEN MP
MEMBER FOR WIDE BAY
A new chapter has begun in Maryborough’s industrial manufacturing history with Minister for Defence, Peter Dutton, officially opening the new Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions projectile forging plant today.
Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions world-class manufacturing plant demonstrates the Coalition Government’s commitment to working with Australian companies to create jobs for local families, boost our sovereign defence capabilities and deliver a stronger, safer future,” Mr Dutton said.
“Munitions and small arms research, design, development and manufacture has been identified as one of the federal government’s top 10 Sovereign Industrial Capability Priorities.
“This project will deliver jobs and economic growth in Maryborough and the Fraser Coast, while also demonstrating our ability to compete and potentially export to our international partners and allies around the world.
Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O’Brien has championed the RNM factory since its inception and welcomed the official opening of the plant.
“Around four years ago in Canberra, I started working with RNM to bring this project to Maryborough, Mr O’Brien said.
“I immediately recognised the significance of this project both in terms of its importance to the local economy and in serving a vital role in building Australia’s national defence capability.
“RNM could have chosen to locate in any democratic and freedom loving country in the world, but instead, backed by the Liberal and Nationals Government, they decided to plant their strong industrial roots into our region, and that decision will benefit us and generations to come,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The RNM joint venture is generating 100 new, long-term jobs and up to $100 million in economic output, including $36 million in Wide Bay alone, at its $60 million, 7,000sqm Moonaboola industrial estate site.
“From construction through to production, and the unique final finishes that includes showcasing timber produced by Hyne Timber, our region is now reaping the benefits of this investment in Maryborough.”
The $60 million plant is manufacturing the world’s most technically advanced 155mm calibre projectiles and will produce artillery shell cases and other related products with state-of-the-art equipment including a 1200-tonne hot forging press that is now turning out the first orders.
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