INDUSTRY NEWS Current news from the Industry

IMCRC activate launches with rapid COVID-19 test Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (IMCRC) has launched its new funding initiative, IMCRC activate, with an Australian first — the development of a rapid COVID-19 test that uses optical technology.

Designed to provide a much-needed stimulus to Australian manufacturing businesses in the wake of COVID-19, IMCRC activate stimulates and fasttracks R&D investment, offering access to valuable expertise and matched cash funding between $50,000 and $150,000. The first approved project of the initiative is led by Alcolizer, a Perth-based company developing a rapid saliva test for SARSCoV-2 virus antigens using its existing drug testing technology. Alcolizer’s partnership with IMCRC and research collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) will see the project accelerate quickly in the face of the global health pandemic, evolving from a proof of concept to secure Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) readiness in just four months. As Australia emerges from the worst of the COVID-19 crisis, providing valuable and strategic support for shorter-term research projects in advanced manufacturing and digital technologies is a priority for IMCRC. David Chuter, CEO and Managing Director of IMCRC, commented: “As the fourth largest industry in Australia, manufacturing is critical to rebuilding the health of our economy. COVID-19 highlighted some serious capability gaps in the industry, and now we must focus on using our Australian resources and R&D strengths for future growth. The IMCRC activate funding initiative has been designed to do just that — provide funding and pathways for manufacturers to recover and thrive. “We’re thrilled our first approved project has been so successful to date and has the potential to provide much needed health,

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has talked up a gas-fired recovery for manufacturing, raising expectations of big price reductions.

However, the report from the Grattan Institute – entitled Flame out: the future of natural gas – shows that far from fuelling recovery from the COVID-19 recession, a combination of economics and environmental imperatives will place increasing pressure on the industry.

“The evidence is clear: over time, gas will decline, economically and environmentally,” says Tony Wood, Grattan Institute

Energy Program Director and the report’s lead author. “Rather than indulging in wishful thinking or living in denial, the Federal

Government and the gas industry – and its customers – should start planning now for a future without natural gas, or at least with a dramatically reduced role for natural gas.”

The report shows that eastern Australia faces inexorably more expensive gas. The east coast has already burned most of its low-cost gas and will not go back to the good old days of low prices, so gas will become an increasingly expensive energy source. If the Government intervenes directly in the market, taxpayers will pay the price via big subsidies. social and economic benefits in the fight against COVID-19. We hope this new funding initiative will shine a light on the need for broader investment in Australian manufacturing R&D.” Alcolizer General Manager Roger Hunt added: “The IMCRC activate initiative has been absolutely instrumental in our progress developing the prototype for this test. We have been able to boost our manufacturing capabilities and accelerate the diversification of our business into a new area of opportunity.” Laboratory trials using the Alcolizer COVID-19 test prototype are expected to begin within two months. IMCRC activate is a new initiative designed to help Australian manufacturers take action and gain a competitive edge in the post COVID-19 world. To be eligible for IMCRC activate funding, projects must: • Be industry-led, deliver clear manufacturing outcomes, and be completed within six to 15 months. • Be undertaken by one of IMCRC’s partner research organisations. • Apply Industry 4.0 technologies and digital business models. • Move the project through ideally two Manufacturing Readiness

Levels (MRLs). • Ideally involve other Australian manufacturing SMEs as collaborators. • Address sustainability and/or national needs where possible.

A new report forecasts natural gas will inevitably decline as an energy source in Australia, calling into question the Federal Government’s “gas-fired recovery” and the prospect of cheaper energy for manufacturers.

www.imcrc.org/activate

Even if the Government could significantly reduce gas prices, the benefits to manufacturing are overstated. The companies that would benefit most contribute only about 0.1% of gross domestic product (GDP) and employ only a little more than 10,000 people. Much of this gas-intensive industry is in Western Australia, which has low gas prices already. The report argues that the Government’s best role is to support the development and deployment of the low-emission alternatives that can replace natural gas in manufacturing, such as renewables-based hydrogen and renewables-based electricity. Australia must reduce emissions over coming decades to meet our international climate change commitments. The report also disputes the potential of gas as a ‘transition fuel’. As Australia’s coal-fired power stations retire over coming decades, it would be more expensive to replace them with gas than to switch to more renewable energy such as wind and solar. While gas will play an important backstop role in power generation, this does not require large volumes of gas.

Renowned physicist Dr Cathy Foley AO has been appointed Australia’s next Chief Scientist. Dr Foley, who has spent the last two years “I have known [Cathy] for many years,” said as the CSIRO’s Chief Scientist, will take Dr Finkel. “I feel somewhat honoured to be over from Dr Alan Finkel AO, whose tenure followed in the role by such an esteemed comes to an end in December 2020. Prime person. I am confident in handing the Chief Minister Scott Morrison said Dr Foley had the Scientist’s baton to her safe and experienced background needed to deliver during such a hands. Cathy is first and foremost a scientist pivotal time in history. – a world renowned physicist – and a leader “As we recover from COVID-19 and look to in every aspect of her professional life.” rebuild a brighter future, the role of the Chief Morrison also commended Dr Finkel for his Scientist has never been more important,” time in his position: “I would like to thank Dr Morrison said. “Dr Foley has a big task ahead Alan Finkel AO for his outstanding contribution to drive collaboration between industry and as Chief Scientist over the past five years. He the science and research community, as we look to create jobs has been a valued and respected voice to Government, and I for the COVID-19 recovery and for the future.” know he will continue to make a significant contribution to the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews Australian and international science communities.” also thanked Dr Finkel for his service and said Dr Foley would CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall praised Dr Foley on bring a unique mix of experience to the role. the appointment: “The appointment is testament to Cathy’s “Dr Foley is highly regarded in the scientific community, has personal scientific excellence, her broad vision for Australia extensive experience working with government, but most through her invaluable work at CSIRO, and her commitment and importantly understands how to drive collaboration between role-modelling for diversity and inclusion for the next generation industry and researchers,” said Andrews. “We know science will of scientists. Cathy has been with CSIRO for nearly 36 years, play a crucial role in helping to create jobs at this critical time, and beginning as a research scientist, working in manufacturing, and Dr Foley’s skills as a talented science communicator will help sell becoming CSIRO’s Chief Scientist in August 2018.” Dr Foley is that important message. the second woman to be named Australia’s Chief Scientist, after “Like me, Dr Foley is also a strong advocate for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and her lived experience will make her an important role model for aspiring young scientists.” Professor Penny Sackett, who held the role from 2008-2011. Dr Foley is a Fellow of both the Australian Academy of Science, and the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering. She is an accomplished scientist who has made significant contributions in the area of physics relating to superconductors. Dr Finkel praised the appointment, describing his successor as “an excellent choice.” Her appointment as Australia’s Chief Scientist is for three years, starting in January 2021.

In a new partnership, Wysiwyg 3D has joined forces with GoProto to create a unified laser scanning and 3D printing service bureau.

By introducing scanning and digitising expertise into GoProto’s advanced manufacturing network, the merger enables a streamlined solution at every stage of the product development cycle. Shane Rolton, Managing Director of Wysiwyg 3D, sees the merger as a particularly beneficial opportunity for his clients, employees and business partners. “Our focus has always been on taking care of our customers by understanding what drives their business and providing solutions that affect the bottom line,” said Rolton. “We’ve already been working on a number of projects with GoProto. Combining our expertise and resources shortens the time-lag between scan data and production, putting ourselves exactly where our customers need us.” A recent project involving the repair of a rescue helicopter fuselage hatch served as a testament to the capabilities of these two companies and the potential for building greater manufacturing sovereignty within Australia. Traditionally, the NSW emergency service provider relied on overseas supply of spare parts, but with delays relating to COVID-19, the helicopter was going to be out-of-service for several weeks. By scanning the hatch and creating 3D printed patterns followed by carbon-fibre moulds, lightweight and durable replacement parts were installed within five days. Simon Marriott, Director of GoProto, sees the adoption of 3D scanning and product digitisation increasing as manufacturers adopt Industry 4.0. He described the partnership with Wysiwyg 3D as “a logical step in our growth strategy”. Wysiwyg 3D has been providing 3D scanning services since 2003. It will continue to provide laser scanning, photogrammetry and 3D CAD modelling service under the GoProto banner in Sydney.

The Australian Technologies Competition held its National Awards Ceremony on 20 October, concluding a sevenmonth-long program designed to identify, reward and accelerate Australia’s best ‘deep tech’ scaleups.

Electrogenics Laboratories was crowned overall winner for 2020 as well as the Medtech & Pharma winner for its medical radiation sensing technology that precisely measures radiation skin doses and rates in real time, helping to avoid organ and tissue damage. For Electrogenics Chairman Kim Lyle, the moleskin innovation is a personal one – having lost two family members as a consequence of radiation treatment. “Maintaining momentum has been the biggest challenge,” said Lyle, when asked about the commercialisation pathway. “Never give up; never surrender! There are a lot of hiccups along the way, but you just have to keep making it happen. Stay true to your vision and go for it!”. This year’s winners were: • Advanced Manufacturing Award – Contactile (NSW) • Cyber Security Award – Castlepoint Systems (ACT) • Disaster & Emergency Award – Helitak Fire Fighting

Equipment (QLD) • Energy Award – Village Energy (WA) • Food & Agribusiness Award – Farmbot (NSW) • Global Social Impact Award – 4ize (NSW) • Medtech & Pharma Award – Electrogenics Laboratories (NSW) • Mining Technologies Award – NextOre (NSW) • Smart Cities Award – BindiMaps (NSW) • Space Award – HEO Robotics (NSW) • Alumni Achievement Award – AgriDigital (NSW) • Australian Tech Company of the Year – Electrogenics

Laboratories (NSW) This year’s Ceremony commenced with an entrepreneurs panel discussing the role of the tech sector in rebuilding after COVID, after which the Minister for Industry, Science & Technology, Karen Andrews, delivered a keynote message. Highlighting the Federal Government’s recent commitment of an additional $460m to the Rheinmetall will use the MILVEHCOE facility to build and assemble the majority of Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles, which are being delivered to the Australian Army under the $5bn LAND 400 Phase 2 project. The facility will also be used to conduct integration, support and heavy grade repair for the logistics trucks and modules being delivered under the LAND 121 Phase 3B and 5B projects. Morrison said the new defence industry facility in Redbank is part of the Economic Recovery Plan to create jobs as the nation recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are committed to keeping Australians safe, while protecting the nation’s interests in a rapidly changing global environment,” said Morrison. “This week’s budget has seen the Federal Government bring forward $1bn worth of capability projects and reservist days to support jobs, the Australian defence industry and the wider economy. CSIRO and $2bn in R&D incentives to support the tech sector, Andrews congratulated the finalists: “In so many ways our future rests in the creative hands, critical inventions and trailblazing thinking that defines all of the ATC finalists.” Patrick Mooney, Executive Chair of Impact Technology Ventures, the organiser of the Competition, underscored the importance of a collaborative and supportive ‘deep’ technology ecosystem. “The shape of our re-emerging economy has to be different,” said Mooney. “Global market trends and capital markets are requiring more sustainable solutions and we can’t assume that our traditional sources of wealth can carry the same load. The scale-ups we see through this Competition in sectors like clean energy, smart cities, food and agtech, cybersecurity, manufacturing, emergency management, the circular economy and medtech are critical to this rebuilding. They deserve all of the support they can get from Australia’s tech ecosystem and government agencies.” The opening panel discussion featured four previous winners (Emma Weston of AgriDigital, Phil Hodgson of Calix, Anabela Correia of Livac and Giles Bourne of BluGlass), and venture capitalist Dr Michelle Deaker of OneVentures. The panel described how COVID-19 had significantly impacted their sectors and the

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on 11 October officially opened Rheinmetall Defence Australia’s Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in Redbank, Queensland, which will see hundreds of long-term jobs created.

ways they have adapted. “This Queensland centre will be where some of the most advanced armoured vehicles in the world will be produced by Australian workers. The MILVEHCOE will create more than 450 long-term jobs and become a national asset for military vehicles.” Morrison congratulated Rheinmetall Defence Australia for securing work to export at least 30 Lance Turrets from MILVEHCOE to Hungary. “This is a significant export order, and a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to supporting Australian defence industry to achieve export success,” Morrison said. “We make things in Australia. We do it well. And this is an example of how we are continuing to make things in Australia. Defence is one of six priority areas under our $1.5bn Modern Manufacturing Strategy and is backed by measures from Tuesday’s budget.”

RUAG Australia has been awarded new contracts by the United States Navy for component maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) on MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.

The contracts are authorised under the AUSMIN Defence Acquisition Committee (ADAC) initiative, a collaboration between the US and Australian Departments of Defence. This is the second consecutive contract with the US Navy for RUAG Australia in Q3 of 2020. First orders have been secured for the repair and overhaul of selected components on MH-60R Seahawk helicopters in the US Navy fleet. MRO support for the platform’s complex componentry requires specialized treatment and repair methods inherent to RUAG Australia’s proven aircraft component capabilities. The defence supplier is able to build upon its reliable performance and support in the componentry for the SH-60B Seahawk and to apply the full scope of its accumulated knowledge and experience therein. This is the second US Navy platform RUAG is set to support, in addition to the F/A-18 Hornet contracts awarded in August 2020. This new contract strengthens the existing collaboration between RUAG Australia and the US Navy and sees a foundation for future growth for the national Defence SME. “Earning the confidence and trust of the US Navy is testament to our highly skilled team of professionals who provided reliable MRO support for the B model Seahawk,” commented Terry Miles, General Manager at RUAG Australia. “Now awarded the first contracts for F/A-18 components and the MH-60R Seahawk proves our relationship with them continues forward, going from strength-to-strength.” RUAG Australia is the first Australian company to receive an award under the ADAC initiative covering MRO of selected components for MH-60R Seahawk helicopter. This program designates the defence SME as an approved source of repair for Navy Supply (NAVSUP) within the APAC region. ADAC is a senior bilateral forum for cooperation between the US and Australian Military aiming to facilitate closer Defence and industry collaboration related to the acquisition, logistics and follow-on support of Defence equipment. “We are very proud to apply our vast technical expertise and knowhow in life cycle support on behalf of the US fleet and their aircraft availability,” said Stephan Jezler, Senior Vice President Aviation International, RUAG MRO International.

Australian Made teams up with AMGC The Australian Made Campaign has thrown its support behind the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre’s (AMGC) COVID-19 Manufacturer Response Register.

Australian businesses registered on the platform can now highlight the local provenance of their products via the Australian Made logo. Businesses with products licensed to carry the logo will be able to incorporate the brand into their AMGC COVID-19 Manufacturer Response Register listings. Broad enhancements to the Register include the ability to: • Display the Australian Made logo. • Note Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval. • Upload a PDF for brochures, spec sheets or other key information. • Navigate with more powerful search and connection functions. Ben Lazzaro, Chief Executive of the Australian Made Campaign, said there has never been a more important time to consider buying local: “Australian manufacturers produce products made to some of the highest quality and safety standards in the world. AMGC’s COVID-19 Response Register is a great resource for local businesses to connect and identify local products and supplies relating to managing COVID-19, and we are happy to support the initiative via the use of the Australian Made logo.” Developed by AMGC in collaboration with the Department of Industry, Science, Energy & Resources, the COVID-19 Manufacturer Response Register brings together manufacturers, suppliers and customers via a self-managed platform to offer products and services in response to the pandemic. The free platform allows companies to post a need, solution, or capability online, which is shared on a live community feed. Dr Jens Goennemann, Managing Director of AMGC, said the Register has proven its value during the crisis: “The Register continues to play a critical role in helping business shift focus to assisting the nation’s response to the pandemic, with manufacture of hand sanitiser to invasive ventilators aided by information from the Register. Now it is about supporting the economic recovery and COVIDSafe workplaces and businesses as we open back up through supply of products and services.” The supply matching feature helps suppliers connect with organisations looking for crucial items. Items available for purchase on the platform include hand sanitiser, sneeze guards, face masks, gloves, gowns, caps, booties and all manner of personal protective equipment (PPE), medical equipment and resources for operating a COVIDSafe business. “With the platform free to use for all Australian businesses, we encourage everyone to register and connect with manufacturers and suppliers,” Goennemann added.

The advert by Intermach in the October/November issue of AMT contained an image of a LVD-HD press brake. Intermach is not an authorised agent of LVD and therefore cannot make representations of the LVD brand. LVD’s authorised agent for Australia and New Zealand is GWB Machine Tools. www.gwbtools.com.au

Victoria: No-cost service for Business Recovery & Resilience Mentoring The Victorian Government has established the Business Recovery & Resilience Mentoring Program, with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry as the auspicing body.

Under the program, targeted advice and guidance is available to help small businesses navigate the economic challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 market changes. Through a panel of experienced Business Mentors, businesses can get help in the specific areas of business planning, strategy development and deployment, market transformation and supply chain diversification. Importantly, having been in lockdown for some months, this business recovery program is available at no cost to the participating business and is funded by the Victorian government. BizAdviser, a new association of business consulting professionals providing tailored advice to help SMEs become a cut above the rest, is an approved Business Mentor provider under the program. BizAdviser Principal Mal Clark said: “With around 90 years combined executive management experience in private industry and over 30 years collective experience supporting SMEs, our BizAdviser mentors have helped many businesses to grow and prosper across a broad spectrum of industries.” The program’s aim is to mitigate business risks and financial exposure. Where possible it will connect to other government support and local professional services. Through the program, eligible business owners can receive up to four two-hour mentoring sessions over a three-month period with an experienced professional from BizAdviser, who will help them make informed decisions about the future of their business. The program offers tailored guidance to help businesses in several areas: • Business recovery. To strengthen business recovery (cost reduction, debt and cashflow management). • Market transformation. To understand how COVID-19 has triggered or accelerated market changes. • Digital literacy and engagement. To help businesses reach new customers and markets. • Market and supply chain diversification. To reduce exposure to supply chain risks. • Reskilling and retraining. To help businesses upskill their existing workforce. undertake projects that create jobs, including those that:

The BizAdviser team: Mal Clark, Rob Murphy and Phil Bourke.

Eligibility for the program has been kept as broad as possible; businesses must be located in Victoria and have fewer than 20 fulltime employees or turnover under $50m. BizAdviser can advise on your eligibility and guide you through the application process. Adviser Rob Murphy has a background of demonstrated management consulting expertise, assisting over 150 firms through Enterprise Connect and the Entrepreneurs' Programmes. Adviser Phil Bourke has an enviable record in international trade and export development. “Major disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic present incredible challenges but also offer unique opportunities for businesses to recover, reposition and redesign their competitive advantage,” said Murphy. “Business leaders can navigate short-term uncertainty while accelerating needed transformation so the ultimate impact of COVID-19 will be defined by its role in driving constructive change.” Bourke added: “Whether in times of crisis or relative stability, leading with a vision and articulating a strategic path forward is crucial for long-term business success. While you can’t predict what’s coming with perfect certainty, now is a great time to consider what you could and should become, think about new customers or new markets, create a plan and then set it into motion.” Further information is available via the Victorian Government (https:// tinyurl.com/y52xlkau) or the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (https://tinyurl.com/y5cn7dk8). Businesses are advised to contact BizAdviser for guidance through the application process.

Regional businesses that can increase employment by expanding production lines or relocate operations to regional New South Wales (NSW) from interstate or overseas will have access to support grants of up to $10m. NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the $100m Regional Job • Replace, upgrade or adapt existing plant or equipment, Creation Fund will provide businesses with money to fast track including technology or energy efficiency upgrades. expansion plans, create jobs and stimulate the local economy. • Enable existing regional NSW businesses to establish an “NSW businesses have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the additional production line. face of drought, bushfires and COVID-19 and this unprecedented • Relocate a business from interstate or internationally to funding program will help them thrive instead of just survive,” said regional NSW, or onshore an activity currently undertaken Barilaro. “I have set an ambitious target for the Regional Job Creation overseas. Fund to create at least 5,000 new direct jobs across regional NSW • Develop new tourism experiences and attractions to create in the next three years by providing businesses with the equipment, new demand in a region.infrastructure and capacity to create new opportunities and attract new customers.” Barilaro said the Regional Job Creation Fund will provide grants between $100,000 and up to $10 million to Applications are now open and close on 14 May 2021 or when program funding is fully allocated. www.investregionalnsw.com/RJCFund

www.bizadviser.com.au

New appointments to advise on manufacturing strategy Five new members have been added to a board of entrepreneurs, investors, researchers and educators who will advise the Federal Government in its effort to grow Australian manufacturing and create jobs.

The newly renamed Industry Innovation and Science Australia (IISA) – previously known as Innovation and Science Australia – will advise the Government on innovation, research and science matters. DuluxGroup CEO Patrick Houlihan and Woodside Energy’s Lauren Stafford have both been appointed to the Board for three years. Fintech and consumer rights expert Scott Farrell, space technology entrepreneur Dr Alex Grant and ag-tech innovator Sarah Nolet have been appointed for two years. Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the new appointments would bolster industry experience within the organisation, particularly as it helps deliver the Government’s $1.5bn Modern Manufacturing Strategy. “As a Government we are getting the economic conditions right and backing our manufacturers to become more competitive, more resilient and to scale up,” Minister Andrews said. “But it is industry that will chart the course of our recovery and make this Strategy stick for generations to come. We know it is industry, not governments, that create jobs, so it’s essential that we have people from industry in these key advisory roles. “These appointments will ensure the Board has the necessary skills, expertise, and connections to the Australian business community to reshape and reignite Australian manufacturing – as well as delivering advice more broadly on how to innovate.” IISA is playing a crucial advisory role in implementing the Modern Manufacturing Strategy and overseeing the development of industry-led road maps that will guide future investment and action. IISA Board Chair Andrew Stevens said he was keen to get to work with the refreshed Board. “These new appointments will bring a wealth of industry experience and fresh thinking to the Board,” said Stevens. “I look forward to working with our current and new members to further contribute to Australia’s economic recovery.” Andrews said changing the name from Innovation and Science Australia reflects an enhanced Government focus on making science and technology work for industry.