New sponsorship to accelerate automation and robotics technologies in the City

The partnership will support the activation of the Australian Automation and Robotics Precinct (AARP), a purpose-built facility for testing, research, development and training in automation, robotics systems and equipment, remote operations and net zero technologies.

Managed by the State Government through DevelopmentWA and operated by CORE Innovation Hub, the 51-hectare precinct now provides local, national, and global companies with access to one of the biggest testing and development facilities in the world.

City of Wanneroo Manager Advocacy and Economic Development Steve Marmion said the City was committed to fostering the growth of future industries and ensuring a vibrant job market for its residents.

“It's exciting for our City to be home to this world-leading facility, and the investment of industry partners such as ASX-listed IMDEX and world-renowned ASI Mining is a pivotal moment that puts the AARP at the forefront of technological innovation,” he said.

“The development of this precinct will support businesses of all sizes in the northern corridor and provide quality employment opportunities in a range of industries for residents of our City and wider Perth.”

Construction is underway on a $7.3 million Common User Facility operations building, which will act as the AARP headquarters and include co-working areas, research and development spaces, laboratories, workshop facilities and showcase areas, slated for completion in 2024.

The state-of-the-art building will run on emission-free solar power connected to a battery and microgrid network.

“This isn't just a local or national achievement; it's a global milestone for our City and its businesses,” Mr Marmion said.

“The staged approach to the development of a wide range of industrial lots in the NIA ensures huge potential for growth.

“We're stepping onto an international stage, where we can showcase our innovation and expertise to the world.”

AARP National Project Lead and CORE Innovation Hub Co-Founder Tamryn Barker said CORE was delighted to have the City of Wanneroo as a local government partner in bringing innovative enterprises to the site.

“The partnership will help deliver on the vision of the precinct as a dynamic, collaborative and accessible facility for businesses coming to Neerabup,” she said.

Utah-based robotics company Autonomous Solutions Inc. (ASI Mining) is the latest major industry partner to secure a site at Neerabup.

A world leader in vendor-independent vehicle automation systems, ASI Mining President Diederik Lugtigheid said the company would use the space to further develop and grow purpose-built advanced robotic automated systems.

“We see Western Australia at the forefront of mining technology, and as a mining technology and automation company, we believe it is instrumental to create engineering capability close to our customers,” he said.  

“The AARP is a great concept that will enhance our tech development, testing and validation capabilities close to where the technology will be.”