Industry minister, Senator Kim Carr, today (19 Dec) announced three key steps in implementing the Rudd Government’s $6.2 billion New Car Plan for a Greener Future to transform Australia’s automotive industry.
“These three steps are all significant because they give effect to some of the most critical aspects of the plan,” Senator Carr said.
The three key steps are:
· The release of a framework paper outlining the proposed operation of the Government’s $1.3 billion Green Car Innovation Fund. It invites feedback on the Green Car Innovation Fund’s structure and implementation and is an opportunity for stakeholders to have their say in the delivery of a key element of the New Car Plan.
· The release of Ministerial guidelines for the Automotive Industry Structural Adjustment Program (AISAP). The program will support automotive supply chain companies that want to consolidate through mergers and acquisitions. It will create a stronger supply base for the automotive industry by assisting the industry to retain core capabilities and achieve greater scale.
· The appointment of members of the Automotive Industry Innovation Council, which will be chaired by Dr David Charles, a former Secretary of the Department of Industry, Technology and Commerce.
“The commercialisation of new technologies in Australia is a key feature of the Green Car Innovation Fund, which will focus on reducing vehicle fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions,” Senator Carr said.
“The framework paper outlines the proposed key elements of the fund, such as: the size of grants available, who is eligible to apply, when applications can be lodged, and how applications will be assessed.
Stakeholder feedback will inform development of implementation guidelines for the Green Car Innovation Fund.”
Input to the Green Car Innovation Fund guidelines development can be made by:
· attendance at public consultations at key centres around Australia in early February 2009. The framework paper is available on the Green Car Innovation Fund webpage, and details of the consultations, including timing and venue, will be available shortly; and
· written comments on issues raised in the framework paper or on any other aspect of the fund can be submitted via email to: The Manager, Green Car Innovation Fund Taskforce, GCIF@innovation.gov.au Automotive Industry Structural Adjustment Program — Guidelines
“The Automotive Industry Structural Adjustment Program is about the Rudd Government working with the automotive industry to strengthen the components sector’s capability to improve supply chain integration. We cannot have a viable automotive industry without a strong components sector,” Senator Carr said.
Firms will be able to apply for assistance with eligible merger and acquisition costs from 1 January 2009. Consolidation will help make companies more financially viable and competitive and will need to have demonstrable economic and strategic benefits to the automotive industry to receive support.
Firms are advised to refer to the program guidelines before applying. A copy of the guidelines is available at www.innovation.gov.au/aisap and application forms will be available at the same site shortly.
Automotive Industry Innovation Council — Members Senator Carr said the Automotive Industry Innovation Council will help to inform and coordinate the implementation of the New Car Plan for a Greener Future, which is designed to reshape Australia’s automotive industry and improve its competitiveness.
“Dr Charles’ expertise in innovation and public policy, his experience as a former Department Secretary and his interests in industry development, research and development, and international trade and investment will bring strong leadership, drive and knowledge to the council,” Senator Carr said.
“This council represents all the key automotive industry stakeholders, including representatives of Commonwealth and State Government ministers, the three car producers, component makers, unions and researchers.
“The council will be a vehicle for good communication between industry and government, develop and disseminate new ideas, and drive continuous improvement and renewal.
“While the automotive industry in Australia and around the world is facing significant challenges, I am confident that the New Car Plan for a Greener Future will help our industry to meet these challenges. The plan and the initiatives I have announced today will facilitate a transition to a more sustainable, competitive industry and provide economic, social and environmental benefits for the country.”
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