New steps for Green Car Plan announced
Source: Australia. Environment Business.
"Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, has announced three key steps in implementing the Rudd Government's $6.2 billion New Car Plan for a Greener Future to transform Australia's automotive industry. The three key steps are:
*The release of a framework paper outlining the proposed operation of the Government's $1.3 billion Green Car Innovation Fund. It invites feedback on the Green Car Innovation Fund's structure and implementation and is an opportunity for stakeholders to have their say in the delivery of a key element of the New Car Plan. The framework paper outlines the proposed key elements of the fund, such as: the size of grants available, who is eligible to apply, when applications can be lodged, and how applications will be assessed. Stakeholder feedback will inform development of implementation guidelines for the Green Car Innovation Fund.
* The release of Ministerial guidelines for the Automotive Industry Structural Adjustment Program (AISAP). The program will support automotive supply chain companies that want to consolidate through mergers and acquisitions. It will create a stronger supply base for the automotive industry by assisting the industry to retain core capabilities and achieve greater scale.Firms are now able to apply for assistance with eligible merger and acquisition costs. Consolidation will help make companies more financially viable and competitive and will need to have demonstrable economic and strategic benefits to the automotive industry to receive support.
* The appointment of members of the Automotive Industry Innovation Council, which will be chaired by Dr David Charles, a former Secretary of the Department of Industry, Technology and Commerce."