Clean energy gets $20 million boost

Enterprise Connect will partner with Newcastle Innovation, the commercial arm of the University of Newcastle, the Australian Institute for Commercialisation and the Western Australian Sustainable Energy Association, to deliver hands-on assistance to small and medium enterprises operating in the clean energy sector.

"This centre will assist firms in the clean energy sector to tap into expertise, research and technologies through partner organisations and their networks," said Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.

"By providing a range of business improvement services, the centre will capitalise on export opportunities, boost productivity and encourage Australia's transition to a low-carbon future."

Central to its services are free on-site business reviews, conducted by expert business advisers, for eligible businesses in the clean energy sector. Businesses can then apply for matching grants of up to $20,000 to make improvements identified in the review.

The Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson, welcomed the news.

"Investment in clean energy is an investment in Australia's future. Renewable energy is a growing sector with enormous employment potential," Ferguson said.