Costa East Devonport - Berry Distribution Centre Expansion – ad hoc grant to CostaExchange Pty Ltd

Overview

The purpose of the grant is to support an expansion of the Costa Group’s Berry Distribution Centre in East Devonport, Tasmania. The funding will contribute to an expansion project, with the Costa Group seeking to double the capacity of the existing distribution centre, and generate ongoing employment opportunities. The grant forms part of the Australian Government’s Supporting Australian Industry package, which provides $135.5 million over four years to boost local industry. It also contributes to achieving Outcome 1 of the department’s Portfolio Budget Statement: Support economic growth, productivity and job creation for all Australians by investing in science, technology and commercialisation, growing innovative and competitive businesses, industries and regions, and supporting resources. The objectives of the grant are to: increase the capacity of the existing berry distribution centre increase ongoing and seasonal local employment opportunities increase food processing and manufacturing in the region. The intended outcomes of the grant are: berry growers in north-west Tasmania are supported to expand production increased security of ongoing supply, enabling growers in the region to capitalise on strong global demand strengthen the reputation of the North-West Tasmania region as a competitive agriculture and food-processing destination  support the growth of the local economy  secure long-term employment for Costa’s workforce and additional peak time casuals increased capacity for engagement with, and employment of, First Nations peoples.