Grey Innovation has announced it is leading a Victorian industry consortium that has secured a $31.3 million contract with the federal government to build 2,000 ventilators as part of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Victorian Government, who provided a $500 thousand grant for the project’s feasibility stage, has also announced it will order a further 2,000 ventilators.
Grey Innovation said its 'notus Emergency Invasive Ventilator Program' is an initiative supported by the Victorian Government and Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC).
The company said it will start the supply of ventilators in June with 2000 to be produced by the end of July.
"With time to market critical, and under advice from its medical advisory team, the program will utilise a certified mechanical ventilator design from a leading medical device company under licence for production in Victoria," said the company in a statement.
According to Grey Innovation executive chairman, Jefferson Harcourt, “Victoria has the highest concentration of engineering and manufacturing companies in Australia, and as such, we are well placed to work together to do something about ensuring there isn’t a shortfall of ICU equipment here in Victoria and the rest of the country.
“We thank the Australian Government along with the Victorian Government and AMGC for their support of the vision and rapid response to get the program underway and are overwhelmed by the willingness of our industry colleagues to respond in this critical hour of need.”
Federal industry minister Karen Andrews said Grey Innovation and their industry partners are stepping up to meet the challenge of this unprecedented pandemic.
“This is another great example of Australian industry and the private sector working with our Government to ensure critical supply of medical equipment during the outbreak of this virus,” said Minister Andrews.
“This deal demonstrates the power of bringing Aussie manufacturers and clinicians together and is also a reflection of the highly advanced manufacturing capability that exists in our country.
“It also shows the incredible collaborative spirit that’s been on display as we respond to this unprecedented pandemic. Companies which are normally in competition are working together for the greater good.”
Grey Innovation said the partner information would be published once the consortium is finalised.