Wheels up for Latrobe’s first Aerospace Technology Precinct

Latrobe and the broader Gippsland region is playing an important role in Australia's growing aerospace industry. As the sector expands, it is driving economic growth, strengthening security and improving connectivity across the nation for emergency services, industry and transport. 

The Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct, once complete, will be a national centre of excellence. Located in Latrobe City, it will be the first integrated advanced air mobility (AAM) precinct of its kind in Australia, helping propel the Latrobe-Gippsland region to new heights. 

The recent opening of the Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport marks an important next step. The centre provides an environment to test and demonstrate the next generation of uncrewed aviation, in the heart of the region.  

What is advanced air mobility? 

Australia's aviation landscape is expected to change significantly through the introduction of advanced air mobility (AAM). AAM technology will transform not only the types of aircraft in operation, but also the services, industries and transport networks they support. 

Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft can be powered by batteries, hybrid-electric systems or, in the future, hydrogen fuel cells. These aircraft are designed to be cleaner, quieter and more flexible than traditional planes and helicopters, whether crewed or uncrewed. 

AAM technologies have the potential to support a wide range of services, including passenger transport, freight logistics and emergency response operations. 

For Latrobe City, AAM also presents an emerging economic opportunity. Building on the region’s existing aviation and aerospace strengths, the industry has the potential to attract investment, support innovation and economic diversification, and create skilled jobs and new career pathways. 

 Potential opportunities include: 

• faster search, rescue and disaster response 
• improved regional access to jobs and essential services 
• faster delivery of medical supplies and freight 
• enhance agricultural productivity and safety 
• greater community connectivity. 

A people-first precinct 

While the establishment of the precinct will bring innovation and emerging technologies to the region, Latrobe City Council is focused on ensuring the benefits are shared across the community. 

The precinct's location offers significant advantages. Latrobe City is home to a strong local supply chain, advanced manufacturing capability and a highly skilled workforce. Expanding education and career pathways in aerospace and related industries will help create new opportunities for local people while strengthening the regional economy. 

The precinct has been designed as a collaborative environment for emerging aviation technology companies, universities and research organisations. It will support: 

• research and development, 
• testing and trial activities, 
• market validation 
• pathways to commercialisation.  

Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) CEO, David Shankey recently visited the precinct and saw firsthand the contribution the precinct is already making to the region's future. 

Shankey said:

The future of Australia's aerospace industry won't be built in our cities alone. Regional centres like Latrobe have the capability, workforce and infrastructure to help drive the industry's next phase of growth.

The Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct is building on those strengths to attract investment, support innovation and create long-term opportunities for the region.

There is a unique opportunity for investors and businesses to help establish new industries in the region.  

Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Sharon Gibson said:

This puts Latrobe City in a strong position to attract investment, support new ideas and create more opportunities for our community.

We have an opportunity to take a leading role in this new industry in Australia, bringing new investment, businesses and skilled jobs to Latrobe City,

It’s not just about aviation. It’s about growing manufacturing, building on our local strengths and creating new opportunities for young people to pursue STEM careers right here in our region. 

Growing new industries will help strengthen our economy and create more jobs and opportunities for local people into the future.

Learn more about the precinct and how to get involved on the Latrobe City Council's website. 

Find out more about NZEA's work in Latrobe and the broader Gippsland region on our Latrobe page.