Australian Winders has been awarded a $1 million co-investment through the Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program, jointly delivered by the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) and the Cook Government, to expand its coil component manufacturing capability for the wind energy sector.
The project will see Australian Winders invest in new coil line equipment, including robotic taping heads, hydraulic hot presses, and automated testing systems, to deliver high-performance components that meet international standards. The $976,408 project is being supported by a $488,204 grant from the Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program. It is expected to create 25 new jobs, upskill 20 existing roles, and increase revenue over five years.
Building capability for growth
Founded in 2008, Australian Winders is currently the only Australian manufacturer of large coil components. With operations already at maximum output, the co-investment will allow the company to expand production and unlock new growth opportunities in the renewable sector. At the same time, it will continue to serve existing markets in mining, rail, and power generation.
Managing Director of Australian Winders, Tony O’Brien, said:
“With our manufacturing operations already at maximum output, we have been unable to take on new contracts or pursue growth opportunities. By increasing production capacity and automating key processes, this co-investment will remove existing bottlenecks, improve efficiency, and reduce lead times.”
“As a result, we will be positioned to meet rising demand in the wind energy sector, secure new contracts, and strengthen our role as a key domestic supplier. This expansion will allow Australian Winders to grow within our existing markets while also exploring new opportunities.”
The grant will deliver new robotic taping heads, hydraulic hot presses, and automated testing systems to boost the speed and quality of coil looping, spreading, and insulation. This investment will increase production capacity while maintaining quality to international standards.
Over the next eight months, Australian Winders will partner with copper wire specialist Westral, investing in training and technology to develop a reliable, local supply chain for wind farm operators.
Strengthening WA’s role in renewable manufacturing
Premier of Western Australia, Hon. Roger Cook, said the project reflects his government’s commitment to building a future-focused WA economy:
“Becoming a renewable energy powerhouse and making more things here are key parts of my government’s strategy for WA to remain the strongest economy in the nation.”
“By manufacturing wind turbine infrastructure in Western Australia, we’ll not only help in the fight against climate change, but we will also create jobs and opportunities for Western Australians.”
Minister for Energy, Decarbonisation and Manufacturing, Hon. Amber-Jade Sanderson, added:
“Supporting local businesses like Australian Winders strengthens our economy, creates skilled jobs, and ensures WA is well positioned to play a key role in the clean energy transition.”
“The Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment program is a practical example of how we’re partnering with industry to grow local capability and create new economic opportunities.”
Driving advanced manufacturing in WA
Dr Jens Goennemann, Managing Director of AMGC, said the grant reflects the importance of investing in advanced manufacturing capability within Australia:
“Australian Winders is a great example of the latent manufacturing potential we have in Australia. With the right support and focus, we can help companies and this nation manufacture increasingly complex goods by leveraging the skills we already have.”
With new technology, more skilled staff, and greater production capability, Australian Winders is preparing to meet rising demand across Australia and beyond. This project is the first co-investment under the AGMC’s $8 million Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program.
“We’re proud to lead this next chapter in Australian manufacturing,” said O’Brien. “This isn’t just growth for us. It’s growth for WA industry, jobs, and energy resilience.”
