New Sunrice Facilities May Not Be Far Away

One Morrison Government election promise could see Leeton’s SunRice plant increase its manufacturing capacity with a $5 million commitment.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Barnaby Joyce said the funding would go towards a $19.9 million upgrade of the Aussie manufacturer’s Specialty Rice Foods Facility.

“The project will enable SunRice to bring new manufacturing capability to Australia and increase onshore production of its popular microwave rice pouch range,” Minister Joyce said.

“This will allow the new technology to be expanded across to new microwave rice pouch products.

“SunRice, like many of Australia’s growers, is developing new production methods to combat variability in yields.

“Importantly, this project delivers a high-value product using a relatively low volume of rice, helping insulate the company from any future season impacts.”

Member for Farrer, Sussan Ley said SunRice was one of the world’s largest rice food companies, with international reach into approximately 50 markets and operations in nine countries around the world.

“The project will adopt state-of-the-art equipment and develop new automated processes and is expected to create 28 additional skilled jobs for the Leeton area,” Ms Ley said.

“Demand for convenience and microwave rice products is increasing - this project will step up Australia’s onshore manufacturing capability, enabling that demand to be met with locally grown and produced products.

“SunRice’s operations in the MIA contribute close to $400 million to the local economy, through its rice processing mills, value-added production facilities and corporate offices, R&D and animal nutrient production facilities.”

Senator for NSW, Perin Davey said SunRice had been able to expand from a grower cooperative to an international food brand through innovation and value adding over more than 70 years; this funding allows that local capability to grow even further.

“By extending the manufacturing capabilities in Leeton we are creating jobs and building resilience back into the rice industry,” Senator Davey said.

“Riverina rice is already paddock-to-plate for traditional rice and rice cakes - now it will also be paddock-to-microwave-to-place.”

• Topics:

• Grants / Funding
• Local Economy / Business