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Aquaterro is among six local companies to be tasked with producing personal protective equipment for the Victorian government.
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The masks will be distributed to frontline workers and vulnerable communities in the lead up to Christmas, with the first batch of masks expected to be delivered from next week.
Approximately 700,000 masks will be distributed to local government offices, health centres, pharmacies, general practices, disability service providers, home and community care services, and mental health services.
The remaining 500,000 masks will be added to the state government’s stockpile.
Among the six companies to be selected are defence equipment suppliers Aquaterro and Defence Apparel Australia.
Aquaterro has been tasked with producing 200,000 reusable textile face masks, compliant with the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.
“Our company has always sought to provide support to those in harm’s way. This contract to provide WHO compliant masks to those on the front lines, and those in need of masks who cannot otherwise access them is absolutely in keeping with our purpose,” Aquaterro founder and managing director Graeme Bulte said.
“This work will continue to advance Aquaterro’s growth and expansion, and in hiring Australians for an Australian owned company”
Other companies to be selected include Nobody Denim, The Ark/Thread Group, Bluegum, and Styleprint.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews noted the importance of the initiative, particularly amid new restrictions that prohibit the use of face shields, bandanas, or scarves for protection from the virus.
“This order will ensure people who need them most have access to a mask to keep them and their loved ones safe,” he said.
“Masks have been a critical part of reducing the spread of coronavirus and will be even more important as restrictions ease and people will start moving more freely in the community.”
Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula added, “The ability of Victorian manufacturers to adapt and produce the goods that we need in a pandemic has been remarkable.
“These companies are at the forefront of those efforts.”
[Related: COVID-19 Task Force commander pivots focus]
