FAMILY-OWNED Australian manufacturer Whiteley has officially opened its new Human Therapeutics Plant in Tomago.
The $25 million purpose-built plant will manufacture alcohol-based hand rubs and over-the-counter medicines for use in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Australia and New Zealand.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington opened the new plant in a ceremony attended by more than 100 key stakeholders and staff last Thursday.
Once fully operational, the new facility will create 30 new jobs across research, manufacturing, compliance and operations.
“This facility is a long-term investment in Australian science, Australian jobs and Australian manufacturing,” said Dr Greg Whiteley, Executive Chairman of Whiteley.
“This sector has long been dominated by multinational corporations.
“This plant levels the playing field and puts the Hunter region at the centre of therapeutic manufacturing in Australia.”
Whiteley is Australia’s largest manufacturer of hospital-grade disinfectants and high-level infection control solutions.
A 92-year-old family business, Whiteley has operated from Tomago since 1995.
Whiteley now exports to more than 35 international markets.
The company recently achieved Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) certification, enabling it to export medical devices from Tomago to the USA and Canada.
The new facility will also serve as a hub for collaborative research with leading Australian universities, including the University of Newcastle, University of Sydney and Western Sydney University, focused on tackling antimicrobial resistance and chronic biofilm-mediated infections.
“This is more than a factory. It’s a platform for scientific innovation and global competitiveness,” said Dr Whiteley.
“We’re proud to be turning Australian research into real-world therapeutic products that are made in the Hunter to serve the healthcare system long into the future.”
Speaking at the opening, Kate Washington MP praised the company’s commitment to regional growth and international excellence.
“It’s a proud day for Port Stephens when an impressive and innovative local manufacturer backs itself to become even bigger and better,” Ms Washington said.
“Whiteley is an award-winning local manufacturer that’s strengthened Port Stephens position as a manufacturing powerhouse – by expanding its operations and our local economy.
“I congratulate the wonderful Whiteley team for its commitment to making more world-leading infection prevention products, right here in the Hunter.”
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