The Albanese Government is backing local Corangamite business Xefco to commercialise its technology with almost $5 million in funding under the Industry Growth Program.

Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Tim Ayres and Local Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker today visited the business to attend Xefco’s launch of Ausora®, a breakthrough water‑free textile dyeing and finishing technology. 

The $9.9 million project, co-funded by the Albanese Government and Xefco eliminates water use and wastewater discharge in the textile manufacturing process, cutting energy use by up to 90 per cent, and reducing chemical consumption by 97 per cent. 

The funding will support the commercialisation of Ausora® through deployment with international textile manufacturers, and the scale‑up of Australian manufacturing for global export.

Innovative projects supported through the Industry Growth Program align with complements the Albanese Government’s $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund’s mission to drive investment in projects that develop Australia’s industry and manufacturing capability. This will help to transform Australia’s economy.

Early-Stage Commercialisation and Commercialisation and Growth grants are open to businesses that apply after participating in the Industry Growth Program Advisory Service. Early-Stage Commercialisation and Commercialisation and Growth grants are open to businesses that apply after participating in the Industry Growth Program Advisory Service.

To date, more than 1,300 businesses have received Advisory Service reports, providing tailored guidance on the most effective pathways to commercialisation, innovation and scale.

Applications for the Advisory Service are open on an ongoing basis. For more information, including eligibility, visit: business.gov.au/igp.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres:

“Australians are world renowned for their ingenuity and the Government’s Industry Growth Program is the platform from which many growing businesses can transition from start-up to a global venture.

“The Albanese Government’s Industry Growth Program provides a funding boost for local businesses to be able to take their idea from the lab to the factory floor, but also the local job market, supply chains and productivity. That’s what a Future Made in Australia is about.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker:

“Xefco is a great example of the innovation we’re seeing right across our region, with local businesses leading the way in new technology.

“This funding will support the next stage of their work – helping bring new technology to market and creating opportunities for local jobs and growth.

“It shows what’s possible when we back local businesses to develop ideas, improve sustainably, and contribute to a stronger economy.”