Former State Development minister Clive Brown appointed independent chair of SW AMTECH steering group

A former State politician is set to bring his extensive knowledge in commerce and trade to the continuing developments for an advanced manufacturing and technology hub in the South West.

The Honourable Clive Brown, who served as the Minister for State Development, Small Business, and Tourism between 2001 and 2003, was recently appointed independent chair of the South West Advanced Manufacturing and Technology hub’s steering group.

The announcement marks a further step forward in the South West Development Commission’s plans to implement an advanced manufacturing and technology hub for Bunbury and the wider region.

Mr Brown is set to bring a wealth of industry experience having previously been a director of CI Resources and director of Phosphate Resources as well as a consultant to the sector.

In the new role, Mr Brown will provide independent advice to State Government, through the Minister for Regional Development, on the vision and benefits of the hub.

Mr Brown said he was excited to be invited by the State Government to take part in the next phase of the hub’s development.

“There is no doubt Bunbury and surrounds has all the ingredients to make this a reality,” he said.

“Innovative companies producing high-quality products have thrived in the area due to talented leadership.

“The region has a highly skilled workforce that has been achieved through a commitment to training and the employment of a steady stream of apprentices.

“I see my role as working within government and with industry to work up the next stage of the development.

“Ultimately the essential objective is to create a hub that enables the industry to expand as well as participate in other emerging opportunities.”

SWDC chief executive officer Mellisa Teede said the commission was working to tap into the potential of the region and unlock business and job opportunities.

“In the South West, we already have a highly skilled and globally competitive manufacturing industry,” she said.

“We want to build on that and create further businesses and advanced manufacturing jobs for generations to come.”