Armidale medical mattress manufacturer Forte Healthcare has received a $500,000 grant from the State Government to assist in expanding to create an additional 25 full-time jobs in Armidale, Operations Manager Laurie Sargeant, left, Director Stephen Sargeant, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Sales Director Greg Sargeant.
Monday, 8 November 2021
ARMIDALE’s reputation as a leader in medical manufacturing has been given a bounce, with Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall today announcing a $500,000 State Government grant to help Forte Healthcare Solutions construct a new production and R&D facility for its expanding medical mattress line.
The Regional Jobs Creation Fund gives businesses the opportunity to fast track their growth plans, expand operations, increase production, attract investment and create new jobs.
Mr Marshall said the new plant would provide the company with much-needed space for installation of new production equipment and a dedicated medical mattress manufacturing line.
“Manufacturing in Armidale is booming, with products made here in the city now servicing domestic and international markets,” Mr Marshall said.
“Forte Healthcare is one such businesses doing innovative things and this new facility will allow it to deliver an eye-watering 150 per cent increase in production of specialised medical use mattresses.
“With the expansion comes 25 new sustainable jobs for our region, strengthening career opportunities in the sector.
“Forté Healthcare has witnessed strong demand for its specialised medical mattress products all of which are manufactured within its Armidale facility.
“With the increased output from the facility, Forte Healthcare is also looking to expand into the export market, which will see high performance, Australian designed and Armidale manufactured medical mattresses being exported for use around the world.
“The present COVID pandemic has emphasised how crucial it is that we continue to invest in medical manufacturing capabilities within Australia to support our healthcare systems in times of crisis.”
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, visit www.investregionalnsw.com/RJCFund