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National bushfire protection has taken another step forward with the launch of IND Technology’s expanded manufacturing facility in Richmond, supporting the rollout of the Early Fault Detection (EFD) system to Aussie communities.
The event was attended by Richard Riordan MP, Member for Polwarth and Shadow Minister for Planning and Housing, who emphasised the role of early fault detection in reducing powerline-related fire risks, a key concern for rural communities.
Representing one of the most bushfire-prone regions in the world, he highlighted the EFD system’s potential to improve safety across Victoria and Australia. He also pointed to the broader applications of the technology and expressed support for its rollout to benefit communities into the future.
IND Technology’s CEO and Founder Alan Wong said the expanded facility enables further development and deployment of systems that monitor faults in real time, an innovation that could save lives while boosting Australia’s high-tech manufacturing capabilities.
“It’s a homegrown solution to a very local issue. As bushfire risks continue to increase with climate change, we hope this new facility demonstrates our ongoing commitment to working with regulators and the government to address gaps in powerline safety and bushfire prevention,” Wong said.
Expansion To Boost Production And Economy
Beyond safety, the expanded Richmond facility will allow IND Technology to produce more than 10,000 EFD devices annually, providing an economic boost. The expansion is expected to generate millions in export income, strengthening Australia’s economy and showcasing the global potential of local innovation.
The EFD system is already deployed in more than 12 states and provinces in the US and Canada, as well as in New Zealand, Malaysia, Portugal and across major Aussie states. It has helped prevent over 500 potential fires, primarily in North America.
In November last year, IND Technology submitted a report to the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action on the FireSafe Early Fault Detection trial, which successfully completed its eighth trial in nine years in partnership with AusNet Services and Powercor Australia in rural Victoria.
The trial results showed deployment costs dropped by 64 per cent and high-risk faults were detected before they could cause damage.
“The energy and power companies we’ve worked with are eager to keep using the trial equipment, which really shows the confidence the industry has in the technology,” Wong said.
Focus On Local And International Markets
“With the new hub, we’re excited to work even more closely with industry partners and regulators ensuring this important technology gets rolled out across Victoria and eventually the whole country,” Wong said.
“More than 90 per cent of our business is focused on international markets, but it all began at RMIT with the goal of solving Australia’s bushfire challenges, particularly after Black Saturday. Expanding our local facility is a clear signal that we’re here for the long term, protecting our communities and improving fire safety across the country.”
“While our technology has gained traction overseas, we’ve always been committed to supporting local adoption here in Australia, and that hasn’t changed,” Wong said.
Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Nick Ross
