A Coffs Harbour business that designs and builds innovative outdoor screens for homes and businesses is set to bring manufacturing inhouse to reduce its reliance on offshore suppliers, thanks to the NSW Government’s Regional Job Creation Fund.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said a $120,000 grant will help Ossie O to buy and install new plant and equipment for its North Boambee factory, supporting the creation of six sustainable jobs for the region.
Mr Singh said funding will allow the company to rely less on Chinese made components for its retractable screens, awnings and shutter products, which will increase local production schedule times and open more opportunities.
“Ossie O’s mosquito and insect screens, awning and shutters are much sought after and soon they will be able to make these products with locally made components to meet the growing demand in the market,” Mr Singh said.
“Manufacturing components locally means there is less reliance on importing parts, which in turn reduces delays and will also create job opportunities for locals as production capacity grows.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the $130 million Regional Job Creation Fund aims to create 6,500 new direct jobs in regional NSW by providing incentives to expand and keep operations in regional areas.
“Regional NSW is the engine room of the state and helping companies like Ossie O expand its operations stimulates local and regional economies, boosts livelihoods and increases local employment opportunities,” Mr Toole said.
“This grant will allow a well-known and reputable regional manufacturer to fast track expansion of its operations, creating local job opportunities now and into the future.
“Setting businesses up for success helps the local community grow and new jobs means more people earning a wage and spending their pay packets in local stores, cafés, restaurants and on local goods and services.”
The Regional Job Creation Fund supports eligible businesses with grants to purchase new equipment, expand facilities, acquire technology, create new production lines or establish businesses in regional NSW.
Round one of the Regional Job Creation Fund has now closed. A second round will open in early 2022. For more information, go to: investregionalnsw.com/RJCFund
