STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Dr SCAMPS (Mackellar) (16:03): I'd like to recognise an outstanding and innovative local business in my electorate of Mackellar, Droptruck. Based in Ingleside, Droptruck has developed patented lightweight truck body technology and, together with SKYEV, is introducing Australia's lightest 4.5-tonne electric truck. In the growing electric truck industry, weight matters.

Lighter vehicles can carry more, travel further and use less energy. Droptruck is an Australian innovation with a lighter cabin, allowing it to travel longer distances. This is making them competitive, and with a purchase price comparable to diesel alternatives, Droptruck has already manufactured more than 150 lightweight bodies for electric trucks.

This is practical climate action, supporting cleaner freight, local manufacturing and Australian jobs. But despite proven technology and clear commercial demand, the business is struggling to secure the growth capital it needs to scale. Traditional lending programs are not designed for innovators bringing entirely new technologies to market, and suitable support at this critical postcommercialisation stage has simply not been available.

If we are serious about making things in Australia and accelerating the transition to cleaner transport, we must back businesses like Droptruck beyond the start-up phase. Without fit-for-purpose growth capital, we risk seeing Australian ideas, investment and manufacturing move offshore.