107 post graduate engineers will be placed in industry-based automotive projects, under $5 million in grants from the Liberal National Government.

The Automotive Engineering Graduate Program will deliver 10 grants to seven universities in Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the post graduates would work on research projects in key knowledge priority areas.

“Australia has a thriving automotive components sector and we punch above our weight in global vehicle design,” Minister Andrews said.

“This funding will help these universities deliver stipends and research support to the 107 post graduates.

“It will develop job-ready engineers with the skills and experience our automotive industry needs and will support projects which will grow our economy and create Australian jobs.”

The successful applicants are:

• Swinburne University of Technology with one grant of over $990,000
• Deakin University with two grants totalling over $900,000
• Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology with three grants totalling over $780,000
• Monash University with one grant of over $750,000
• University of Melbourne with one grant of over $640,000
• University of Western Australia with one grant of over $490,000
• Queensland University of Technology with one grant of over $280,000

Projects include improving the safety and durability of vehicles; development of an innovative powertrain for electric vehicles; next generation battery management systems; automotive computer systems, direction systems for self-driving cars; artificial intelligence; and systems to protect vulnerable road users and using mobile phones to start cars.

Industry partners include Ford, Toyota, Volgren, Robert Bosch, SEA Electric, Easymile, Stealth Technologies, Strategic Elements Ltd and EV Works.

“As an engineer myself I am very pleased to be involved with this program, which demonstrates the commitment of the Liberal National Government to supporting our advanced manufacturing sector.”

The Automotive Engineering Graduate Program is part of the Coalition’s $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund, announced in the 2017-2018 Budget. It is designed to boost innovation, skills and employment in advanced manufacturing in Australia.

This is part of the Liberal National Government’s plan to support Australia’s automotive and traditional industries, which will grow the economy and help to create 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years.

For more information, visit www.business.gov.au/AEGP

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070