A CARRUM Downs-based wheelchair manufacturer has been awarded a $1.5 million grant to manufacture customisable wheelchairs.
The federal government grant, awarded through the Cooperative Research Centres Projects grant stream, was handed to Rove Concepts for its “Australian Design, Manufacturing and Automation of Advanced Wheelchairs” project. The money will be used to help create customisable wheelchairs using aerospace grade titanium and 3D printing techniques.
Dunkley MP Jodie Belyea said she is “so pleased to see Rove Concepts PTY LTD recognised for their Australian Design, Manufacturing and Automation of Advanced Wheelchairs project, which has huge potential to achieve scale local production, develop three next-gen wheelchair models, integrating cutting-edge materials, robotic assembly and automation.”
“The user-led design will deliver clinical impact and global outreach, positioning Australia as a leader in advanced assistive mobility and deliver significant benefits for our local economy here in Dunkley at the same time,” Belyea said. “The CRC Program was launched by the Hawke Labor Government in 1990, and the Albanese Government is proud to continue backing Australian ingenuity and jobs to secure a stronger and more competitive future.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 17 March 2026