16 July 2025

Soil turned as investment 'marks arrival' of high-tech industry in Wollongong

| By Keeli Dyson
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Politicians and Gravitas Technologies representatives breaking ground on construction site.

Work has begun on the expansion of Gravitas Technologies’ operations. Photos: Cunningham Electoral Office.

Construction has started on new high-tech manufacturing centres which will create and expand opportunities for employment and industry development in the Illawarra.

Work has begun on the expansion of Gravitas Technologies’ facility in Coniston to help the engineering firm drive innovation in materials engineering.

Gravitas Technologies prides itself on using advanced powder pressing technology and creating cutting edge materials to be utilised in a practical and commercial way.

READ ALSO Government helps pave the way for Illawarra’s most significant industry change in a century

The company’s creation of new innovative materials as part of its ‘Vulloy’ series, which is designed for application in high temperature and extreme environments, has potential for key use in areas such as aerospace, defence and green steel production.

Soon two new warehouses will help ramp up operations.

“This major investment represents more than just a new building — it marks the arrival of another high-tech industry in Wollongong,” Gravitas Technologies CEO Sam Moricca said.

“Our new facility enables us to bring our technologies to market faster, while also creating meaningful job opportunities in the community.”

Cunningham MP Alison Byrnes with Gravitas Technologies CEO Sam Moricca.

Gravitas Technologies CEO Sam Moricca with Cunningham MP Alison Byrnes.

Mr Moricca said the development strengthened the Illawarra’s standing as a place known for invention.

“This milestone not only positions Gravitas Technologies at the forefront of advanced manufacturing in Australia but also reinforces the Illawarra region’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and industry,” Sam said.

The project was funded by a $1.5 million boost from the Federal Government’s Industry Growth Program which supports small and medium enterprises that have potential to build Australia’s capabilities.

READ ALSO $47m TAFE centre of excellence in heavy industry an investment in students like Jess

The impact for the region is set to be beneficial throughout the construction, installation and ongoing operation, providing unique employment and training opportunities in an area of industry growth.

“Creating local skilled jobs is a huge win, and supported by work at the University of Wollongong this project will further cement Wollongong’s growing presence on the national stage in the manufacturing sector,” Cunningham MP Alison Byrnes said.

“The installation and operation of the isostatic press machines requires a highly trained workforce – presenting job opportunities for engineers, technicians, and specialists in material science and advanced manufacturing.

“A future made in Australia – and a future made right here in the Illawarra.”

The first building is expected to be completed early next year with the process equipment fully operational by mid 2026.

The second building will follow, with the aim for the process line to be commissioned by the end of 2026.

For more information about Gravitas Technologies and the potential of its operations visit its website.

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