New factory signals new chapter for Aussie Biscuits

Aussie Biscuits has today celebrated the opening of its new factory.

A well-known Forbes icon, Aussie Biscuits is one of nine businesses owned and run by House with No Steps (now Aruma). It provides employment opportunities for people with a disability and has been part of the Forbes community for over 40 years.

More importantly, it also provides people with a disability the sense of connection, pride and independence that comes from working.

Brett Lacey, Executive Director of Businesses, said the Aussie Biscuits team is thrilled to be in their new home.

“The new factory has been possible after we received $210,000 from the Building Better Regions Fund towards a $456,000 project to scale up our operations.

“Moving to the new factory is a big milestone – some of our supported employees have been working at Aussie Biscuits for over 30 years. We’re celebrating our new chapter – we’ll be able to bake more biscuits and deliver them to even more people. The new factory will also create much-needed employment opportunities for people with a disability in the area,” said Mr Lacey.

The new site includes new ovens, which have come all the way from Italy, a specialised cool room and mixing room for biscuit production. Employees now also have a new lunch room and a welcoming reception area.

Colin Ward is one of 30 supported employees at Aussie Biscuits. He’s been with the company for 30 years.

“I love making biscuits, and seeing all my friends and working with everybody. I’m excited to be in our new place. We’re now able to make even more biscuits,” he said

Federal Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the opening of the new factory was a good result for a fantastic organisation.

“This is great for the local community and great for local business,” Mr McCormack said.

“House with No Steps (now Aruma) is doing a power of good in Forbes and this new Aussie Biscuits factory will continue its fine work.

“I particularly like the Jam Drop biscuits and I will be dropping in one day to take a tour of the new factory.”

Construction on the new factory started in May 2018 and Aussie Biscuits marked the new chapter with a grand opening morning tea on Wednesday 31 October.