Industry Update - Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

AUSTRALIA'S LARGEST CIRCULATING MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

Issue 149 Jun/Jul 2026 $12.00 inc. GST

AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING AWARDS

2026

Big changes, bigger questions: What does this Budget mean for your manufacturing business?

T

reasurer Jim Chalmers has used his fifth budget to redraw the tax map.

The centrepiece is the most far-reaching set of changes to Australia’s tax system in more than a quarter of a century, with the Government taking aim at discretionary trusts, the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) discount and negative gearing.

A minimum tax on discretionary trusts, the replacement of the CGT discount with cost base indexation, a minimum tax rate on realised gains and the restriction of negative gearing represent a generational shift

Nominations Now Open See Centre Pages

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING AUTOMATION & SUPPLY CHAIN EVENT

WE WANT YOUR VIEWS! Treasurer Jim Chalmers has laid down his Budget for 2026

in how wealth, property and investments are proposed to be taxed.

Continues page 20

Focus on five decades of keeping Australian industry running

8

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CONTENTS Manufacturing Business & Finance.......................................................................... 4 Special Feature..................................................................................................... 8 Safety................................................................................................................10 Food & Beverage................................................................................................ 12 Editorial............................................................................................................. 14 Robotics & Automation........................................................................................ 15 From the Minister................................................................................................ 18 Machinery & Tools.............................................................................................. 19 Awards..............................................................................................................28 CeMAT Feature...................................................................................................32 Materials Handling..............................................................................................50 Australian Made.................................................................................................56 Information Technology.......................................................................................60 Machinery & Tools..............................................................................................63 Compressors.......................................................................................................64 Universities & Research........................................................................................67 Events................................................................................................................77 Community.........................................................................................................79

‘Key win’ for small businesses as instant asset write-off made permanent

MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE Industry Update Media Pty Ltd ABN 25 083 502 783 Suite 403, Level 4, 116-118 Christie Street, St. Leonards NSW 2065 +61 2 9439 1288 / sales@industryupdate.com.au

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All material in this publication is copyright to the publisher and/or its contributors. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent from the Publisher. It is a condition of purchase or acceptance of this magazine that the Publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission on this publication or from the use of the information in this publication or from the use of the information and illustrations contained herein and the Publisher makes no warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of the material contained herein. © Copyright Industry Update Media Pty Ltd 2026 Publisher SCOTT FILBY scott@industryupdate.com.au

Advertising Sales Director SCOTT FILBY scott@industryupdate.com.au

Finance & Accounts MICHELLE ALCOCK michelle@industryupdate.com.au

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usiness NSW has welcomed the decision in the Federal Budget to make the temporary $20,000 instant asset write-off policy permanent for small businesses.

The budget in general was poorly received in the business community, with many pointing to the lack of incentive for entrepreneurs as a result of changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT), but the instant asset write-off section was received warmly.

The peak body for businesses in New South Wales called it a ‘key win’ for the SME sector, while still pushing for an extension to other areas of the Budget.

“While the government stopped short of lifting the threshold to $50,000 – a measure backed by the Federal Opposition in its budget reply – broader changes to the tax

system may create fresh uncertainty for business,” said a Business NSW statement.

“In particular, a proposed 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts from 2028-29, and changes to Capital Gains Tax, risk negatively impacting business confidence and investment.”

The start-up community is expected to be the hardest hit by CGT changes, and the Government is now consulting with the start-up sector to work out a path forward.

Some benefits were already included, however.

As of this Budget, startups with annual turnover below $10 million that generate a tax loss in their first two years of operation will be able to generate a refundable tax offset against the loss, which should assist with early cashflow. industryupdate.com.au

Ready, Set, Grow Transform your business with the help of our Manufacturing and Wholesale specialists, dedicated to connecting you with solutions that meet the unique needs of your business.

If you’re ready to fire up your business, talk to us today.

Matthew Kelly Head of Manufacturing & Wholesale

0412 265 197 manufacturingwholesale@stgeorge.com.au stgeorge.com.au/manufacturing industryupdate.com.au

Things you should know: T&Cs, fees, charges and eligibility and credit criteria apply. © St.George - a Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

Industry Update Issue 148 - Apr/May 2026 | 19

MANUFACTURING BUSINESS & FINANCE

Matt Kelly, Head of Manufacturing NSW for Westpac

Expanding support for manufacturers, without changing what matters

W

hen the global financial climate is uncertain, Australian manufacturers need a partner they can trust to help guide them through the choppy waters.

That’s been the strength of St.George Bank for decades, positioning itself perfectly as the business bank that understands manufacturing, with all the ups and downs that working in the sector entails.

Now, as Commercial business banking customers of St.George come together under the Westpac brand, that message is one that they are emphasising: a different brand, but the same people delivering the same service to Australia’s manufacturing sector.

Industry Update sat down with Matt Kelly, Head of Manufacturing NSW for Westpac and veteran of thirty years serving the manufacturing sector, to talk through the process.

But first, it should be noted this move is for Commercial business banking customers only. There are

no changes for Retail Banking and SME and Small Business.

“The change for Commercial business banking customers is really around the brand. We’ve been part of the Westpac Group for many years, and now we’re being brought together under the one brand, Westpac,” he said.

“The important thing to understand is that it’s the people you deal with who make the difference.

“It’s great having a strong brand behind you, but ultimately it’s the people and the relationships that matter, particularly in manufacturing, where industry knowledge is so important.

“The team remains the same. In fact, with me now being Head of Manufacturing NSW for Westpac, we’ll be able to extend some of the value-added services we’ve been providing to St.George customers across our broader Westpac manufacturing customer base as well.

“That means we can broaden and deepen relationships across the group and continue delivering the things people know us for, such

4 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

as business reviews, connecting customers with grants, insurance reviews and other services that create value beyond traditional banking.”

The people and relationships customers value will remain the same, supported by the strength and scale of Westpac to continue delivering consistent, reliable service to manufacturing customers.

Most importantly, the culture that made St.George Bank a favourite with manufacturers will not change.

“We’ll continue to maintain the culture we’ve worked hard to build within manufacturing and wholesale banking. That’s incredibly important to us,” explained Kelly.

“Our focus remains on creating value for customers and supporting the manufacturing sector.

“Customers are still dealing with the same bankers. Those people have intimate knowledge of their businesses, understand the partnerships we’ve built and know how we can create value for them.

“We also work hard to connect customers with each other and

create business opportunities wherever possible. This change will only strengthen that because we’ll have access to a broader network across the Westpac group.”

With uncertainty high on the financial agenda around the world, it’s that local knowledge that remains core to the proposition.

“Manufacturing is operating in a particularly interesting environment at the moment given what’s happening around the world and the economic impacts that flow from it,” said Kelly.

“One of the advantages of having industry specialists focused on manufacturing is that we develop a broad understanding of how those issues are affecting businesses across the sector.

“That means we can move quickly, provide informed guidance and support customers through periods of uncertainty because we understand both the industry and the challenges it faces.”

Westpac - westpac.com.au industryupdate.com.au

Banking for the business of manufacturing Strong relationships drive success. Our Relationship Managers partner with you, offering tailored support and solutions.

Westpac Industry Banking

© Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714. The Westpac Group, 275 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, AUSTRALIA.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Focus on five decades of keeping Australian industry running

E

very day, Australian factories leak money through a cost most operators have never even considered: compressed air.

Not through inefficiency on the production line or waste in the supply chain, but through the infrastructure nobody thinks about - and which can take up as much as 30% of an entire factory’s energy consumption.

Most operators have been running the same dated equipment for years, overspending on power every shift.

It’s a problem Focus Industrial has been solving since 1976.

Founded in Blacktown by Graham Bulloch 50 years ago, the company began trading as Industrial Air Tools & Sealex, selling and repairing pneumatic tools out of Western Sydney.

It didn’t take long for the founding team to recognise that the tools were only part of the story.

Behind every workshop running dozens of air tools simultaneously was a compressed air system, and when that system failed or underperformed, operations were affected immediately.

Understanding that infrastructure became the focus of the business.

“Just one day of downtime for a medium to major-sized operation can cost them as much as buying an entirely new compressor,” said Jake Bulloch, Key Accounts Manager at

Focus Industrial.

“That’s why designing systems for success, and being there fast when something goes wrong, is at the core of what we offer.”

That philosophy, forged at the workbench over fifty years, is what separates Focus Industrial from a mere supplier. They are a turnkey solutions provider, proven by their engineering process.

Where others sell equipment, Focus Industrial engineers systems, considering each operation’s specific requirements such as workshop layout and tool demand, air quality standards, output volumes and energy targets.

The result is a compressed air system built for the business, not bolted on to it.

By 1999, Focus’ expanding business had outgrown its original premises and relocated to a larger site in Jamisontown.

The new warehouse gave the team the capacity to launch their own compressor line, a natural extension of years spent at the workbench understanding what operators actually need rather than what is simply available to order.

Over the years, Focus’s global technical partnerships deepened their knowledge base, but the intention remained firmly local.

Australian businesses, Australian conditions and Australian industries - all built for efficiency and

The Focus Industrial leadership team 8 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Focus Industrial have 50 years of experience in the manufacturing sector

designed for uptime in our unique conditions.

The technology has dramatically evolved since those early pneumatic tool days.

Rotary screw compressors have become the new standard for factories across nearly every industry, improving in both efficiency and accessibility.

Focus Industrial carries a broad product range across two main lines: Fixed Speed compressors for consistent, predictable demand, and Variable Speed compressors, which use variable speed drivers to match power output to real-time demand.

The variable speed capacity eliminates the energy waste that comes from fixed-rate machines running at full capacity when a partial output would do.

“With up to 30% of a factory’s energy bill being attributed to compressed air, upgrading to a modern screw compressor can vastly lower annual energy costs,” said Rick Bulloch, Sales Manager at Focus Industrial.

“We see operators running ageing equipment all the time, and they genuinely don’t know how much

they’re overspending.”

To further simplify the upgrade process, Focus Industrial developed mounted, turnkey compressor packages that combine the compressor with air receiver tanks, dryers and filters in a single footprint.

This created a practical solution to a common workshop floor space constraint, making the most of every square metre.

Complimentary system assessments are a cornerstone of Focus Industrial’s offerings, and consistently reveal energy savings that operators didn’t know existed.

There’s no obligation - just an opportunity to gain a clearer picture of what a system is actually costing, and what it could cost instead.

The commitment to accessibility extends beyond the products.

From their roots in greater Sydney, Focus Industrial expanded their reach up and down the coast, inland across New South Wales, and south to a satellite operation in Melbourne.

Today, they service from Byron Bay to Adelaide and nearly everything in between, supported by a 24/7 breakdown callout service and a dedicated team of technicians who keep operations running around the clock, across food packaging, timber processing, mining, recycling, and virtually every form of manufacturing.

Now marking fifty years, three generations of the Bulloch family have built something quietly remarkable: a national operation that has shaped Australian industry while remaining exactly what it started as, a family business that takes compressed air seriously, because the businesses that depend on it do too.

The next fifty years look as strong as the foundation they were built on.

Focus Industrial focusindustrial.com.au industryupdate.com.au

Five Decades of Compressed Air: The Evolution of Focus Industrial

1976

A family business since 1976, supplying Australian businesses with compressed air solutions.

Graham Bulloch Started Industrial Air Tools & Sealex

1991 Warehouse at 20 Bessem er Street, Blacktown

1999

Relocated to 22 Altair Place, Jamisontown

Relaunched into Industrial air compressors

2005

Started the Service division for industrial air compressors

2013 2019

Separated the Industrial Compressor side of the company from the air tools under a new company called Focus Industrial

2020

Relocated Focus Industrial to 17 – 20 Altair Place, Jamisontown

2026 2025

50 Years, 3 Generations

Started Melbourne satellite team

HEAD OFFICE: 17-20 Altair Place, Jamisontown, NSW, 2750

|

PHONE: 1800 763 883

|

EMAIL: sales@focusindustrial.com.au

SAFETY

Five reasons why A-Safe is the leader in polymer barrier safety

The Step Guard

The Monoplex 190 Heavy-Duty Bollard

W

hen it comes to workplace safety, protecting people, infrastructure and equipment is critical.

For decades, steel barriers were the default choice in industrial environments. Today, however, more manufacturers, warehouses and logistics operators are turning to polymer safety solutions that absorb impacts, reduce maintenance costs and improve operational efficiency.

A-Safe has been at the forefront of that transition for a decade, developing a range of polymer safety products designed to withstand repeated impacts while protecting both facilities and vehicles.

Here are five products that demonstrate why A-Safe has become a leader in workplace barrier safety.

1. Monoplex 190 Heavy-Duty Bollard In busy industrial environments, bollards are constantly exposed to bumps, scrapes and impacts.

Traditional steel bollards often require repairs or replacement following repeated collisions.

The Monoplex 190 Heavy-Duty Bollard is engineered to absorb impacts while maintaining its structural integrity. Designed to protect buildings, machinery and vehicles, it helps reduce downtime,

maintenance costs and operational disruption while preserving the appearance of facilities.

2. iFlex Heavy Duty Bollard For environments with heavier vehicles or higher operating speeds, the iFlex Heavy Duty Bollard provides enhanced protection.

Highly visible and extremely durable, the bollard helps protect structures and equipment from vehicle impacts while also reinforcing traffic routes and safe driving behaviour. It is widely used across industrial, commercial and public environments.

3. Step Guard Vehicle charging areas, goods holding zones and pedestrian walkways all present unique safety challenges.

A-Safe’s Step Guard delivers heavy-duty low-level protection capable of withstanding repeated impacts from vehicles weighing up to 6,400 kg. Uniquely, it also functions as a step for vehicle operators while helping prevent injuries, infrastructure damage and costly downtime.

4. FlexiShield Column Guard Columns are among the most vulnerable assets in warehouses and manufacturing facilities.

The iFlex Heavy Duty Bollard 10 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

FlexiShield Column Guard provides robust protection for square and rectangular columns through a modular design that is quick to install and adaptable to different heights. Structural support ribs and integrated air channels help dissipate impact forces while minimising the risk of damage to both columns and vehicles.

The Traffic Gate

5. Traffic Gate Loading docks, access points and doorways are among the busiest and most critical areas in any facility.

A-Safe’s Traffic Gate is designed to protect these high-risk locations from forklift impacts and vehicle collisions. Its polymer construction

deflects impact energy away from infrastructure, helping keep loading bays operational while reducing maintenance requirements and protecting employees.

As manufacturers continue to prioritise workplace safety, products that can withstand repeated impacts while reducing repair costs are becoming increasingly important.

With solutions covering everything from bollards and column protection to loading bays and pedestrian areas, A-Safe continues to demonstrate why polymer barriers have become the preferred choice for modern industrial environments.

A-SAFE - a-safe.com

FlexiShield Column Guard industryupdate.com.au

WE'RE COMMITED TO WORKPLACE SAFETY THAT'S WHY WE'RE SETTING THE STANDARDS WITH PAS 13 Did you know that there are currently no official safety standards for the use of safety barriers within a workplace? This means that company owners can take liberties with the levels of site protection they offer there employees. This can seriously impact on the safety of workers in those facilities, as well as creating potential risks to infrastructure, assets, and production itself.

That makes the need for safety standards even more important. PAS 13 is the first step towards creating legal guidelines for workplace safety, to better protect workers and companies from potential hazards. ASAFE is incredibly proud to have been part of the steering group that helped make PAS 13 possible – and we continue to strive for more accountability and transparency in the world of workplace safety.

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Code of Practice for Workplace Safety Barriers

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PIONEERING WORKPLACE SAFETY

FOOD & BEVERAGE

SEW-Eurodrive are specialists in the food manufacturing sector

F

ood & Beverage is one of Australian manufacturing’s biggest success stories, growing year-on-year in both size and importance.

As FoodPro, the biggest show in the sector, returns to Melbourne at the end of July, manufacturers are lining up to show their wares to one of the most important trade events of the year.

One such company is SEWEurodrive, a major supplier of motors and drives to the food industry.

They will be demonstrating their range of products at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and ahead of the event, Darren Klonowski of SEW-Eurodrive spoke with Industry Update to explain why the show was so important to what the company is doing in the F&B sector.

“A lot of our business comes from food and beverage,” he said.

“Australia produces very high-quality food to very high standards, and that product is sought after worldwide.

“A lot of food companies invest heavily in Australian standards and Australian factories, with products sent all around Australia and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

“As a company, it is important for us to supply those multinational companies, as well as local businesses producing commodity products and niche food and beverage products.”

That’s why SEW-Eurodrive is going all out, with a huge range of products that food businesses both big and small will not want to miss.

“Of course, we’ll have our geared motor range there, which is an established and proven product line that has been accepted by industry since day one for SEW-Eurodrive,” said Klonowski.

“Since then, though, we’ve evolved and developed a hygienic stainless steel range to complement some of our other surface options, including our XCO surface range.”

They will be focusing heavily on stainless steel products, with a range featuring smooth, non-porous surfaces and rounded geometries to eliminate dirt traps, making cleaning faster and more effective - a critical requirement in food and beverage production.

Their portfolio is versatile and locally serviceable, covering helical, helical-bevel and right-angle gear

SEW-Eurodrive are exhibiting at FoodPro 2026 in Melbourne

units, which can be combined with both asynchronous motors and servomotors.

“We’ll also be showcasing some of our new automation products, including our Movigear product, which should also be available in stainless steel by the end of 2026 for decentralised applications,” said Klonowski.

“That’s particularly useful for high-throughput conveyor applications where customers don’t want to use a cabinet and instead want the drive out in the field controlling motor speed directly.

“We’ll also continue pushing the MOVI-C range alongside our performance products so they can work together with the geared motor range to solve applications ranging from conveying through to specialised machinery, synchronising and

Their drives are ideal for F&B use

12 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

camming.

“Alongside that, we have our stainless steel servo motor range, where the PXG economy range has been developed for specialised, highly dynamic and precise applications.

“It’s really a showcase of the whole range, but with a focus on niche products specifically for FoodPro 2026.”

The whole exercise will display SEW-Eurodrive’s commitment to the F&B sector, with emphasis on developing new solutions that are food grade and compliant with the exhausting Australian standards.

“We’re in a fortunate position because we can offer the entire product range for the industry, from a very simple geared motor that doesn’t need washdown protection all the way through to highly

stringent washdown processing applications like chicken or fish processing,” explained Klonowski.

“Those environments are washed down constantly, so you can’t afford to have paint peeling, corrosion or similar issues.

“We’ve got all those angles covered, particularly with our frequency inverter range as well. If customers need automation, we have the flexibility and scalability in the products to support that.

Companies, including Original Equipment Manufacturers and End Users, use SEW-Eurodrive, knowing they can provide the full suite of products to suit their machinery requirements.

Visitors are encouraged to follow their lead and take time to visit the SEW-Eurodrive stand to see what is on offer.

“Foodpro is the perfect opportunity for us to demonstrate how SEW-Eurodrive products meet the demands of the food, beverage and packaging industries,” said Klonowski.

“From our vast gearmotor range, hygienic stainless steel drives to modular, flexible automation systems consisting of Movione, Movigear and cost-optimised PxG gear units, we offer solutions that improve production efficiency, reduce maintenance, and maintain the highest hygiene standards.”

SEW-Eurodrive sew-eurodrive.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

Driving the world

Join us at Australia’s Leading Trade Event for Food Processing, Packaging and Innovation

SEW-EURODRIVE are exhibiting at Foodpro 2026!

26-29 July 2026 | MCEC Melbourne | Stand L18 Check out the latest drive and automation solutions as we feature a range of products designed to enhance efficiency, hygiene, and flexibility in food, beverage, and packaging industries.

Key Product Highlights: • Stainless-steel portfolio • MOVI-C® modular automation system • MOVIONE® decentralised drive unit • PxG® servo gear unit range • And more!

Visit us to see our products up close, talk to experts, and discover how we can help improve your production efficiency and hygiene standards.

Scan to find out more sew-eurodrive.com.au

EDITORIAL Publisher

Scott Filby

O

ver the past six weeks, Australian manufacturing has once again demonstrated two of its defining characteristics: resilience and adaptability.

The Federal Budget dominated industry discussion throughout May and into June.

While it contained welcome measures in areas such as skills, energy efficiency and targeted industry support, many manufacturers have been left asking whether it goes far enough to address the structural challenges facing the sector.

Conversations across the industry continue to focus on familiar themes.

Skills shortages remain persistent.

Energy costs continue to impact competitiveness. Supply chain resilience remains a priority for businesses that have spent the past few years navigating disruption from every direction imaginable.

The Budget has also generated considerable discussion around proposed changes to capital gains tax arrangements.

For many manufacturers, particularly those involved in technology, innovation and growth-stage investment, the debate has become less about tax itself and more about Australia’s broader approach to encouraging entrepreneurship.

It is a conversation that is unlikely to disappear any time soon - which is why we are putting out an active call for readers from within the manufacturing industry to share your thoughts about this budget.

Manufacturing has never been short of opinions, and robust discussion remains one of the sector’s greatest strengths.

At major moments like this, it is our role as a publication that serves the industry to canvas opinion, then report on it and, hopefully present a meaningful reflection of how manufacturers feel.

We also encourage readers to go further and tell us how this budget affects their position on trusts, which will dramatically impact generations of manufacturers - and how it changes the landscape unlike ever before. Don’t be shy to speak up, as this is our country.

Amid these challenges, there is also plenty to celebrate.

We have been delighted by the industry’s response to the launch of the Australian Manufacturing Awards.

In recent weeks, we have welcomed the Victorian Government as our flagship partner and SugarAI as a major sponsor of the program.

Their support joins a growing list of organisations backing an initiative designed to recognise the people, businesses and innovations driving Australian manufacturing forward.

The level of support we have received reinforces what we have long believed: Australian manufacturing has a compelling story to tell.

As we head into the second half of the year, the focus for many businesses remains unchanged. Build capability. Strengthen supply chains. Invest where possible. Adapt where necessary.

We look forward to continuing those conversations in the months ahead and hope to see many of you at CeMAT and the other industry events that bring our sector together.

Editor

Mike Wood

T

he world of manufacturing is always changing - and while nobody knows what will happen next, our sector is never backwards in coming forwards with solutions.

That was the theme of the last two months here at Industry Update.

We have been all over the country for various shows, from ARBS in Melbourne to Australian Manufacturing Week in Brisbane and a heap of events in between in Sydney, including Electronex at Rosehill racecourse.

It’s always great to meet so many readers, advertisers and friends in person, and to get a feel for how the industry is going from the people at the coalface.

At ARBS, I got a vision of what should be the future of the HVAC&R industry - as well as manufacturing - with the signing of a key pledge around growing the participation of women in trades and industry.

We have been pushing with our own Women in Manufacturing section, so this is clearly something close to our hearts.

AMW was the usual jamboree of our industry, with everything from robotics to machinery, additive manufacturing to precision and performance. As ever, it was hectic, tiring and exhilarating.

We also had Electronex, which displays what the future actually looks like - all the latest electronics, already here and already firing.

Though a smaller show, the level of discourse is always top notch.

Things never stop, either.

We get CeMAT next, and as you can see in this edition’s massive preview, it’s fast becoming one of the most important weeks of the year for the manufacturing sector.

As much as making things matters, so does moving the things that you make - and that’s what CeMAT is all about.

And, of course, the countdown is now on to our own massive moment.

The Awards are open for nominations, two huge sponsors have been announced and a raft more will follow.

That’s the message of this edition: great things are happening in Australian manufacturing. With the Awards now open, we want to know about it.

What Australia’s data centres can teach manufacturing about security

By Mike Fisher, Managing Director, Boon Edam Australia

N

SW’s ambition to become a global data centre capital has significant implications for manufacturers, builders, infrastructure suppliers, security providers and facility managers across Australia.

The NSW Government recently announced that 15 major projects will progress through its Investment Delivery Authority, including data centres, renewable energy and energy security developments valued at $1 billion or more.

The state already hosts around 90 data centres, with investment growth averaging 65 per cent annually over the past three years.

For manufacturing and industry, this signals rising demand for locally supplied equipment, switchboards, HVAC systems, electrical components, automation technologies, access control systems and maintenance services. Data centres are highly engineered facilities

requiring precision cooling, backup power, fire protection, monitoring systems and robust physical infrastructure.

As data centres become more important to daily life, they are increasingly viewed as critical infrastructure. These facilities support banking, telecommunications, healthcare, logistics, government services and industrial operations.

Architects, builders, facility managers, security companies and financial stakeholders are required to plan to ensure critical infrastructure is protected against everyday disruptions and extreme events.

This is not a choice – compliance is already required and statutory provisions are expanding for both significant data centres and electrical infrastructure.

There are threats on two levels.

Cyberspace certainly represents a growing danger, where organisations are at risk from targeted

14 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Boon Edam are entrance experts, including for data centres

attacks such as cyber sabotage or the introduction of malware.

Physical security is the other side of the same coin: physical access to facilities, and to operations-critical areas within them, must be restricted to authorised people.

Intruders must be detected and deterred.

This is where companies such as Boon Edam come in – by providing layered entrance security, which is the gold standard in the field. Boon Edam has a comprehensive suite of entrance security technologies under one roof, which can significantly simplify the process, and

deliver better security outcomes.

Our experience tells us we can expect a renewed focus on physical security to safeguard our energy resources and critical data concentrated within a huge range of facilities. Some of these data centres are already 20 times larger than facilities of just a few years ago.

So we are already seeing the picture of needs that is forming before us, and the signposts to our responsibilities. Our duty of care is expanding as we watch the picture unfold.

Boon Edam - boonedam.com industryupdate.com.au

ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION

What AMW 2026 revealed about real automation opportunities

By Colin Wells, Robotic Automation

A

ustralian Manufacturing Week 2026 in Brisbane delivered a strong signal for the industry that automation is firmly on the agenda.

For Robotic Automation, the show was a success. We engaged with a wide range of manufacturers across multiple sectors, many actively exploring how automation could improve their operations.

The conversations were practical and grounded, focusing on applications, pricing and how these systems could be implemented within existing environments.

High-impact, often overlooked automation areas • Machine tending – automated loading and unloading of production equipment • Packing – consistent and efficient preparation of products for dispatch • Palletising – removing manual bottlenecks at end-of-line operations • Automatic stretch wrapping – improving load security and repeatability • Warehouse movement – loading and transporting goods via AGVs and AMRs

As expected, robotic welding solutions attracted significant attention.

Welding remains one of the most labour-intensive and technically demanding processes in manufacturing and businesses are looking for ways to improve consistency, throughput and safety.

Our mobile robot range also generated strong interest. Solutions using AGVs and AMRs to move materials across factory and warehouse environments are becoming increasingly relevant as manufacturers look to improve internal logistics and reduce manual handling.

But the most important takeaway from AMW wasn’t about any one technology - it was about how automation is being approached.

Many of the discussions at the show were centred on automating the primary task, whether that be welding, machining or fabrication.

That’s a logical starting point.

These are core processes that directly influence output and quality.

However, one of the biggest opportunities in most factories lies not in the primary process itself, but in everything around it.

The reality is that a large portion of inefficiency in manufacturing comes from material handling, movement and end-of-line processes - not just the core task.

Robotic Automation’s stand at Australian Manufacturing Week was a huge hit

A robotic welding cell may improve one part of the process, but if parts aren’t fed in efficiently, or finished products aren’t moved out effectively, the overall result is still constrained.

Automation works best when viewed as a connected system, not a series of isolated upgrades.

By addressing adjacent processes such as machine tending, packing and palletising, manufacturers can achieve immediate improvements in flow, reduce manual handling and increase overall efficiency - often with relatively straightforward implementations.

What stood out at AMW 2026 was the growing recognition that automation is not just about solving one problem.

It’s about understanding how different parts of the operation interact and identifying where simple automation steps can increase the efficiency of the process.

In many cases, we have found some of the fastest gains don’t come from the most complex systems, but from removing everyday inefficiencies that exist between processes.

AMW 2026 reinforced a clear message: Australian manufacturers are actively engaging with automation.

The opportunity now is to widen the focus.

Beyond the core process, there are multiple areas within every operation where automation can deliver immediate, practical benefits.

Identifying and addressing these areas is often the key to improving overall performance - without needing to redesign the entire factory.

Because in the end, productivity is not just driven by what happens at the centre of production. It’s driven by everything that supports it.

Robotic Automation ragroup.com.au

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PALLETISING | WELDING | MOBILE ROBOTS | COBOTS | WMS | PACKING | MACHINE TENDING | MATERIALS HANDLING

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 15

NSW MANUFACTURING

How AMRF and VXB are supporting the next era of space manufacturing

S

tep into the First Building in Bradfield City and the first thing to grab your attention is the towering line-up of advanced, world-class equipment.

But the real value of the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) is not the machinery on the floor.

It is what sits behind it; a unique team of specialised experts that can translate complex ideas into validated, production-ready, scalable outcomes.

A recent collaboration with VXB Aerospace shows what this looks like in practice. VXB Aerospace is a Sydney-based company with a mission to unlock access to the space economy, developing an advanced Hall effect thruster for space propulsion.

By leveraging magnetic field manipulation and advanced magnetic materials, the team is pushing the boundaries of performance.

VXB’s challenge was translating complex ideas into components that could be manufactured reliably and at scale, requiring coordination across design, materials, processes and production from the outset.

This is where the AMRF’s multidisciplinary team came in, applying the expertise needed to turn

design intent into production-ready outcomes.

AMRF’s approach with VXB centred on an integrated workflow, combining metal additive manufacturing with high-precision machining.

Conductive components were printed in a copper alloy and precision finished to achieve demanding performance requirements.

Magnetic circuit components were also machined, enabling production-ready tolerances in a difficult-to-machine soft magnetic alloy.

The challenge was fundamentally one of translation. How do you take complex design intent and turn it into components that are manufacturable, without compromising performance?

That is where many high-potential technologies slow down, not because the engineering is weak, but because the manufacturing pathway has not been proven early enough, or critical trade-offs are made too late when cost, schedule and design decisions are already locked in.

The project was framed around manufacturability from the outset.

The integrated workflow enabled rapid iteration, demonstration of manufacturability, and a clear

The VXB Aerospace team 16 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

The project would not have been possible without the AMRF

progression toward scalable production.

Applying Design for Manufacturing principles early helped de-risk key decisions before VXB progressed toward commercial deployment.

The successful outcomes reflect a focus on readiness, not just output.

Partnering with AMRF enabled VXB to reduce timelines through rapid local manufacture of highly complex components in challenging materials.

It accelerated time to commercialisation through Design for Manufacturing optimisation and additive manufacturing capabilities only available at the AMRF. It also enabled geometries not possible with traditional subtractive methods, including complex manifold features in an electrically conductive alloy.

Most importantly, the work strengthened confidence in VXB’s downstream commercialisation by demonstrating scalable production pathways for space propulsion technologies.

That confidence is critical, as scaling is rarely limited by ambition but by repeatability, and whether a process can reliably deliver consistent results under real-world conditions.

“The benefits of this project for VXB extends beyond just the manufactured propulsion system,” said Zach Levey, CTO of VXB Aerospace.

“Our goal as a company is to automate the design of these highly complex aerospace components, helping to lower their cost and unlock broader access to these technologies.

“Design for Manufacture is hugely important for achieving this, and the AMRF and their expert manufacturers were instrumental not only in optimising our current thruster

design, but also equipping our team with the design methodologies needed for all future projects.”

Ken Morrison, CEO of the Bradfield Development Authority, said: “Projects like this are exactly why the AMRF was established, to accelerate innovation and help industry move from concept to commercial reality with confidence.

“It’s about combining world-class capability with deep, hands-on expertise to translate complex ideas into manufacturable, repeatable outcomes that can scale.”

The AMRF exists to help organisations answer a more important question than whether something can be made. It helps determine how it should be made, how it can be repeated, and how it can scale.

In doing so, it strengthens industry capability more broadly, enabling businesses to validate manufacturing pathways earlier, reduce risk, and move advanced technologies into production with greater speed and confidence.

VXB’s project is a clear example of why that matters. When the challenge is complex, the materials are unforgiving, and the goal is a scalable pathway rather than a oneoff prototype, the limiting factor is rarely access to a single machine.

It is access to integrated expertise that can turn an idea into components that can be produced consistently, inspected with confidence, and scaled with less risk.

This is what ultimately separates capability from readiness, and it is what the AMRF is designed to deliver - ensuring every component is considered not only for how it performs today, but for how it can be built, repeated and scaled for what comes next.

AMRF - amrf.sydney industryupdate.com.au

Grow your business with the AMRF Design it right

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Boost production efficiency and performance.

Test, validate, and refine your process.

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Book a project scoping call today Visit amrf.sydney industryupdate.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 17

FROM THE MINISTER

2026 Federal Budget: Building strength when it matters most

T

his year’s Federal Budget was made in, and made for, challenging times. Supply chain disruptions, volatile energy prices and intensifying global competition are stress-testing Australia’s economic resilience.

Responding to that reality, the Budget is designed to get Australia through to the other side of this global energy shock – the worst we’ve known – while also building long-term resilience through the Future Made in Australia plan.

Understanding and strengthening supply chains This Budget lifts the Government’s national supply chain analysis capability, building the evidence base needed to identify vulnerabilities, map bottlenecks, and inform the strategic interventions required to make the economy more resilient and robust.

We’re backing the Office of Supply Chain Resilience, as well as the CSIRO’s Transport Network Strategic Investment Tool (TraNSIT), monitoring Australia’s freight and transport networks.

These analytical tools underpin the Government’s effort to track and act on risks in the supply and distribution of fuel, urea and fertiliser products, polyethylene and PVC plastics and more.

Supply chain resilience measures

work in concert with the National Reconstruction Fund’s newly established Economic Resilience Program, which is providing $1 billion in zero-interest loans to manufacturing and logistics businesses in critical supply chains.

That’s real funding delivered through existing banking relationships to businesses operating in fuel, fertiliser, plastics and other critical supply chain sectors – businesses that Australians rely on.

Investing in science that works for industry National resilience depends on meaningful, impactful science. That doesn’t happen without strategic statecraft and leadership.

The independent Ambitious Australia report, the most comprehensive evaluation of national research and development for nearly 20 years, called for less fragmentation and more cohesive, mission-led focus in the national innovation system.

The Budget acts on that call by establishing the National Resilience and Science Council, which will more closely align public investment in innovation with Australia’s economic objectives.

The Council will better connect work across science, technology and industry, and strengthen Australia’s research and industrial capabilities.

Minister for Industry and Science

Tim Ayres

It will make sure that every public dollar invested in Australian research and development – now measured at $39.1 billion over the forward estimates of this Budget – is spent wisely and in pursuit of a mission that matters for Australia.

Better coordination will create clearer pathways from discovery to deployment.

The Budget also directly strengthens Australia’s national science agencies and their contribution to the delivery of Future Made in Australia, with $387 million of additional funding for the CSIRO, one of Australia’s greatest assets.

This is an investment in the staff and infrastructure of one of Australia’s greatest industrial and science assets, whose work helps energy providers, agricultural producers and critical minerals processors achieve real breakthroughs that solve practical problems and lift national productivity.

A well-resourced CSIRO means better access to research partnerships, faster translation of innovation into industrial application, and a stronger pipeline of the technologies that will strengthen Australian manufacturing in the decade ahead.

A business landscape that works for everyone Alongside real cost of living relief for Australian households, the Budget invests in a fairer go for Australian industry.

And that fair go starts with fuel security and energy resilience.

The Government’s $14.8 billion Strengthening Australia’s Fuel Resilience package addresses this head-on.

By securing more fuel through the Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility, building long-term reserves, and preserving domestic refining capacity, the Government is combating price volatility for energy-intensive

18 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

operations.

More fertiliser in the country delivers food security for Australia.

The Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme, which will require LNG exporters to reserve 20 percent of exports for domestic use from next July, will also deliver the cheapest possible gas to Australians.

The tax reforms in this Budget are designed to back businesses so they can make the maximum possible contribution to national productivity.

The Government will lift the maximum Research and Development Tax Incentive expenditure threshold from $150 million to $200 million, making Australia a more attractive place for large firms to invest in R&D. The intensity threshold for calculating the RDTI will be reduced from 2 per cent to 1.5 per cent, enabling more firms that engage in substantial core R&D to qualify for higher offset rates. That’s especially good news for firms operating in the manufacturing sector.

These changes will be coupled with expanded venture capital tax incentives that start on 1 July next year, unlocking more patient capital for young, growing firms.

That means a real shot at commercial scale and success for new startups applying artificial intelligence and quantum technologies to existing industrial processes.

This Budget reflects our view that the role of Government is to make it easier, not harder, for Australian businesses to drive productivity and improve economic resilience.

Australian manufacturing is critical for national capability and prosperity. Manufacturers and manufacturing workers deserve support that will ensure industry grows and delivers economic opportunity and good jobs for Australians.

industryupdate.com.au

MACHINERY & TOOLS

How PBE-Roboplas adapted to a changing plastics machinery market

M

anufacturing is an ever-changing business, and the businesses that thrive are often those that can maintain their reputation over a long period while also constantly updating their offering to move with the times. PBE-Roboplas have done exactly that.

They have been Australian owned and operated for over 40 years, offering plastic injection moulding machines and robots to the manufacturing industry, with expert service and a reputation for reliability that evolves with the latest equipment.

Gerald Frutschi, son of one of the founders Francis Frutschi, has been running the business for almost a decade since taking over from his father.

He’s watched the industry change in that time, and when Industry Update met with him at their Seven Hills, NSW location, he had recently returned from a fact-finding mission to China.

“There’s been a huge shift towards sourcing from China,” he explained.

“We used to build a lot of

industryupdate.com.au

special-purpose equipment ourselves, but with robotics and automation now, you can buy equipment that will do just about anything you need it to do. These days, we buy the equipment and integrate it.

“There’s an abundance of suppliers in China - but the challenge is working out which ones are good and which ones aren’t.

“It’s not always obvious from the panels, guarding or appearance of the machine, but if you choose a good supplier, the machines are very reliable.”

Frutschi succeeded by applying his Australian industry knowledge to find a solution that would suit the domestic market.

“We were looking for a supplier with a broad range, because in Australia we don’t have very high volumes of any one particular machine size,” he explained.

“We need a supplier with a large catalogue covering every type of machine. Yizumi, which we chose, has that range.

“We introduced the brand to Australia, and combined with our

previous sales and word of mouth in the industry, a good portion of the sector now recognises the brand.”

PBE-Roboplas can act as a trusted partner for manufacturers looking to source equipment, and, crucially, can provide aftersales care and servicing locally.

“There’s a lot more to it now than just selling equipment.

PBE-Roboplas have been Australian owned and operated More customers want for over 40 years a complete solution,” said Frutschi. just keep increasing gradually,” said “We sell the equipment, assemble Frutschi. it, test it and commission it - and we “Equipment has an upfront cost, do the servicing and repairs on it, but that cost depreciates fairly too. There’s not much that stops our quickly. The life expectancy of that guys, and not many problems they equipment might be 20 or even 30 can’t solve.” years, but in that same time labour Once the equipment is purchased costs will have increased signifiand installed, manufacturers can cantly.” start reaping the benefits over time.

PBE Roboplas “Labour is very expensive, and pbe-roboplas.com.au those costs never come down - they

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 19

MANUFACTURING BUSINESS & FINANCE

Big changes, bigger questions - What does this Budget mean for your manufacturing business?

Continued from front page

These changes sit alongside a range of other proposals including a permanent instant asset writeoff, the reintroduction of loss carry back and a retargeted Research and Development Incentive.

For manufacturing businesses, particularly family-owned groups with layered trust and company structures, the implications are significant and the window to act is limited.

Trusts What’s the proposed change?

It is proposed that from 1 July 2028, trustees of discretionary trusts will pay a minimum tax of 30% on the trust’s taxable income. Beneficiaries other than companies will receive a non-refundable credit for the tax paid by the trustee. If the beneficiaries’ tax rate is above 30%, they will pay top-up tax; if it is below 30%, the excess credit will be lost.

From the Budget papers it appears corporate beneficiaries will not receive a credit for the tax paid by the Trustee. This will practically result in double taxation and hence discourage their use.

Who will be impacted?

If the changes go ahead, all users of discretionary trusts will be impacted. Those who distribute to corporate beneficiaries, or individuals with marginal tax rates below 30% (e.g. non-working spouses), will be particularly affected.

For many manufacturing family groups, this is a direct hit. It’s common for the operating company to sit beneath a discretionary trust, with distributions flowing to family members and bucket companies.

These structures will need to be carefully reviewed.

The proposed measure excludes primary production income, fixed trusts, widely held trusts, superannuation funds, special disability trusts, deceased estates and certain testamentary trusts. Importantly, testamentary trusts established after budget night are intended to be caught.

Grandfathering and structuring No grandfathering will apply, however rollovers will be made available for eligible taxpayers who wish to

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has laid down his Budget for 2026

restructure. The scope of rollover relief and timing are still to be resolved.

All private groups which include discretionary trusts should review their structures. Corporate beneficiaries and discretionary trusts may no longer be a tax-effective option for some taxpayers, however they may still be advantageous from an asset protection perspective.

Corporate structures will likely be preferred for operating entities, however taxpayers will need to manage known risk areas, including Division 7A. Wills should also be reconsidered given discretionary testamentary trusts are not proposed to be excluded where they were not in existence as at Budget night.

Capital Gains Tax What’s changing?

From 1 July 2027, the 50% CGT discount is proposed to be replaced by cost base indexation for assets held for at least 12 months by Australian resident individuals and trusts.

Rather than halving the gain, the purchase price will be adjusted for

20 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

inflation, meaning only real gains are taxed.

A 30% minimum tax rate will also be imposed on capital gains, regardless of the taxpayer’s marginal rate.

This removes the strategy of deferring asset sales to lower-income years, for example around retirement. Income support recipients are proposed to be exempt.

The 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts is expected to operate in a similar fashion when trusts make capital gains. Combined with the removal of the CGT discount, structuring decisions are likely to become more complex.

Transitional arrangements CGT assets will fall into one of three regimes: • Old regime (sold before 1 July 2027): No change. The 50% CGT discount remains available.

• New regime (acquired from 1 July 2027): Cost base indexation and a minimum 30% tax rate apply in full.

• Transitional regime (acquired before 1 July 2027, sold after): The gain is split at 1 July 2027. The pre-1 July 2027 portion retains the

50% discount at marginal rates.

The post-1 July 2027 portion uses indexation and is taxed at a minimum of 30%.

Taxpayers will need to establish asset values at 1 July 2027, either through a formal valuation or specified apportionment formulas.

Pre-CGT assets Where assets acquired before 20 September 1985 are held beyond 1 July 2027, the blanket CGT exemption will end. These assets will have their cost base reset to market value at 1 July 2027, with gains from that date subject to indexation and the 30% minimum tax.

For manufacturing families who have held businesses or premises since before 1985, this is significant.

The gain to 1 July 2027 remains potentially exempt, but everything from that point is in the CGT net.

Getting formal valuations in place will be critical.

Why this matters for manufacturing businesses For owners with significant capital tied up in land, plant, goodwill or business interests, these changes industryupdate.com.au

MANUFACTURING BUSINESS & FINANCE reshape the economics of exit and succession planning.

Under the 50% discount, a founder selling a business with a nominal cost base could have half the gain tax-free. Under indexation, where there is little or no cost base to index, almost the entire gain will be subject to CGT at a minimum of 30%.

The interaction with the trust minimum tax compounds the impact. Those structures now face the 30% minimum on both trust income and capital gains. Small business CGT concessions are maintained; however, full detail on how they interact with the new regime will only become clear once additional detail is released.

What should you do now?

Parts of the CGT legislation have been introduced into Parliament but have not yet passed. Additional detail and potential carve-outs will come through subsequently.

However, the speed at which the first tranche was introduced suggests the Government intends to move quickly.

We recommend: • Identifying all CGT assets across your group, including those held in trusts, companies and personally • Flagging pre-CGT assets that will need valuations at 1 July 2027 • Modelling exit and succession scenarios under both the current and proposed rules • Holding off on material restructures until the full legislative package has passed, but using this window to prepare

R&D Tax Incentive reforms It has been announced that the R&DTI will be restructured from 1 July 2028, shifting support towards core experimental R&D through higher offset rates, while removing eligibility for supporting activities.

For manufacturers, this warrants close attention. Supporting activities such as preliminary research, project management and data collection often represent a material portion of eligible expenditure.

Their removal could significantly reduce claim values.

Key changes are expected to include: • Higher offset rates for core R&D (approximately 4.5% uplift, resulting in a 48% rebate) • Removal of supporting activities • Refundable offset turnover threshold increased to $50m • Refundability limited to companies less than 10 years old • Maximum expenditure and minimum claim thresholds increased to $200m and $50,000 respectively Distinguishing between routine process improvement and genuinely experimental activity will be essential. The reforms are proposed to take effect from 1 July 2028, but the Budget signals increased scrutiny of claims for income years ending 30 June 2027 and 30 June 2028. Businesses should ensure they have concurrent documentation and robust technical substantiation now.

Loss carry back The Government propose to reintroduce loss carry back, allowing eligible companies to offset current year tax losses against tax paid in

up to two prior years, generating a refundable offset limited by the franking account balance. This is particularly valuable for capital-intensive manufacturers who have invested heavily in new plant or capacity and incurred a loss.

Permanent instant asset write-off The $20,000 instant asset write-off for small businesses (turnover up to $10 million) is proposed to be permanently extended. While modest relative to most manufacturing equipment, it remains useful for smaller items such as tooling and IT equipment.

Negative gearing Negative gearing for established residential properties is proposed to be abolished from 1 July 2027 for properties purchased after 7:30pm on 12 May 2026.

Investors will no longer be able to offset rental losses against other income such as salary and wages.

Instead, losses can only be deducted against residential rental income from other properties, or against capital gains from the sale of a rental property. Excess losses can be carried forward.

Existing property owners, including those under contract before the announcement, are grandfathered and can continue to access negative gearing under the current rules.

Eligible new builds also remain exempt, with investors retaining access to both negative gearing and the choice of the 50% CGT discount or the new indexation regime.

For manufacturing business owners who hold investment properties

personally, the changes introduce additional complexity. Each property will need to be tracked by purchase date to determine the applicable rules, and interest-only loan strategies that were previously used to maximise deductions may no longer be as effective.

Commercial property appears to remain unaffected by the reforms, which may make it a more attractive alternative for those looking to invest outside their core business.

FBT exemption for electric vehicles The current full FBT exemption for eligible EVs will remain until 31 March 2027. From 1 April 2027, the full exemption will apply only to EVs costing $75,000 or less. From 1 April 2029, a reduced statutory formula percentage of 15% will apply.

Existing leases are not impacted.

For businesses with fleets, the narrowing of these concessions is worth factoring into replacement planning.

Audit relief The Government is proposing to double the thresholds for large proprietary company classification, from $50 million to $100 million for revenue, and $25 million to $50 million for gross assets. For mid-market manufacturers in that band, this could mean they no longer require an external audit of their financials, nor having to lodge them with ASIC. William Buck Australia williambuck.com.au

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31/03/2025 3:50:14 PM

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 21

MANUFACTURING BUSINESS & FINANCE

Mental health, supply chains and the new risk landscape for manufacturers

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anufacturers know all about risk - and in the modern environment, it is not just something to be managed but something that needs to be deeply understood.

That was the message of the most recent Manufacturing iLab, a collaboration between four key sections of industry: insurance brokers Aon, accountancy firm William Buck, lawyers Coleman Greig and St.George Bank.

The hosting rotates, and with Aon in the chair this time, it was understandable that risk was on the agenda.

Their first speaker was Jo Bartley, Head of Prevention and Education at iCare NSW, the state government agency that provides insurance for people, businesses and communities in NSW. Her presentation, on psychosocial risk, spoke to the importance of mental health in the workplace - and speaking afterwards to Industry Update, she explained just how vital it was for manufacturing leaders to take a proactive approach to the issue.

“The Productivity Commission looked at the cost of poor mental health to the Australian economy and estimated it costs between $13 billion and $17 billion each year,” she said.

“The vast majority of that cost isn’t workers compensation, absenteeism or even turnover. It’s actually presenteeism.

“About $13.9 billion a year comes from people turning up to work but not performing at their full capacity or contributing their full skillset.

“When somebody turns up physically at 100 per cent but mentally at only 60 per cent, that’s actually a fairly normal part of the human condition. Mental health fluctuates.

“However, when that becomes a repeated pattern because of poor mental health, and people consistently aren’t performing at their full capacity or potential, that’s when presenteeism starts costing businesses significant amounts of money.

“It’s a real cost to the Australian workforce.”

Bartley offered practical advice to leaders on how they could get ahead of psychosocial risk before it became a larger issue.

“There are two key things organisations need to do if they want to help lower claims, reduce costs and see a return on investment,” she explained.

“First, show employees that you care organisationally. Have programs

Paul Koutouridis of Aon

in place that demonstrate employees are valued and supported.

“Second, minimise harm caused by psychosocial risk. That means having a proper risk management framework in place to identify risks, put controls in place and make sure those controls are actually working.”

That was the close-to-home risk - but the second speaker, Paul Koutouridis of Aon, was able to integrate a much wider perspective, based around Aon’s Global Risk Management Survey.

It uses data from companies all around the world to identify trends around risk, ranging from cybersecurity and business interruption to regulations, economic slowdown and supply chain disruptions.

Koutouridis explained that risks were not just standalone problems but connected issues that manufacturers needed to consider holistically.

“For me, the more important question is not just what the risks are, but how they connect to one another,” he said.

“You can’t just think about supply chain risk in isolation. You also have to think about commodity prices,

22 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

people impacts and how AI affects supply chains.

“It’s that interconnectivity of risk that people really need to focus on. Don’t look at risks in isolation anymore.”

Furthermore, it was vital that businesses factored in risks as compounding, not isolated.

“It’s important to understand that these risks haven’t suddenly appeared out of nowhere,” said Koutouridis.

“Risks have always existed.

What’s changed is the volatility and the way multiple risks can materialise at once.

“A climate risk can create a supply chain risk, which can then create a brand risk.

“Take a coffee company, for example. Imagine them suddenly being unable to supply coffee because of climate impacts in a country 10,000 miles away. That sounds extraordinary, but it’s completely possible today because of the compounding nature of these risks.

“That volatility comes from not knowing how many other risks will be triggered when one event occurs. Understanding that

interconnectivity is incredibly important.”

That changing nature of risk creates, naturally, a changing insurance environment.

“It’s about understanding the risk first, then working out what can be transferred to traditional insurers and what needs to be managed in other ways,” said Koutouridis.

“What do we do with the residual risk that insurers don’t want to take on?

“A good example is the coffee scenario, which actually came from a deal we worked on with a large global café chain.

“They source coffee beans from around the world, and they were concerned about the impact climate change could have on the farmers supplying them.

“We built a very innovative product using markets that wouldn’t be considered traditional insurance capital in order to protect them.

“Instead of asking what insurance product already exists, we asked what could be designed to help manage the risk. That’s really the major shift that’s happened in the industry.” industryupdate.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

‘Significant milestone’ for additive manufacturing as funding increased

A

ustralia’s burgeoning additive manufacturing sector has received a boost with $11 million in funding set to be released by the Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC).

Five projects will be the beneficiaries of the new money, spanning industry sectors as diverse as aerospace, transport, medtech, mining and defence.

“This is a significant milestone for Australia’s manufacturing sector,” said AMCRC Managing Director Simon Marriott.

“These projects show industry is investing in additive manufacturing not just as an emerging technology, but as a critical pathway to stronger manufacturing capability, more resilient supply chains and globally competitive production.”

“The level of collaboration and

co-investment we’ve seen in this first funding round highlights the appetite to accelerate commercial outcomes and bring advanced manufacturing innovations to market faster.”

The AMCRC works under a mandate to improve the Australian manufacturing sector’s capability by investing in additive manufacturing, with backing from both the Commonwealth and from industry partners.

They work with universities, CSIRO and member organisations to distribute funds across the additive manufacturing sector to accelerate the industry and increase commercialisation.

“These partnerships are creating the knowhow, infrastructure and industry connections needed to strengthen Australia’s additive manufacturing ecosystem,” said AMCRC

Additive manufacturing is a key growth area for Australian manufacturing

Chair Susan Jeanes.

“Importantly, they are helping translate world-class Australian

research into real industrial capability and economic opportunity.”

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026 3-25, 2 June 2 Convention e rn Melbou ition Centre & Exhib

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 23

INDUSTRY NEWS

$6.15bn funding boost for Australian manufacturing announced

T

he Australian Government has announced a landmark funding deal that will see over $6 billion available to manufacturing businesses as part of the National Reconstruction Fund (NRF).

A total of $6.15bn will be open for tender as part of a push to help Australian businesses to overcome supply chain issues that have occurred due to widespread global uncertainty.

That includes $5bn from the Net Zero Fund, designed to underpin Australian manufacturing’s decarbonisation, as well as invest in renewables technologies, clean-energy supply chains and energy upgrades.

There is also $1bn from the Economic Resilience Program,

which provides 0% loans for critical supply chain businesses that power agriculture and manufacturing, and which have been hit hardest by the recent energy price shocks.

“From today, we’re getting $6.15 billion in capital moving quickly into Australian businesses, so industry has the certainty it needs in this time of global disruption,” said Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation Senator Tim Ayres. “$1 billion in Economic Resilience Program zero interest loans will help ease immediate pressures on manufacturing and logistics businesses in sectors such as fuels, plastics, fertiliser and other critical supply chains.

“In an increasingly volatile global environment, strong domestic

Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation Senator Tim Ayres.

supply chains matter more than ever, and this funding is about backing the industries Australia relies on, from farming and manufacturing to housing and heavy industry.

“By fast‑tracking the rollout of these funds within

the National Reconstruction Fund, we’re easing pressure on businesses facing higher costs and global disruption, so industry and farmers aren’t left exposed, and manufacturers can plan with confidence.”

Mars invests $200m in Australian manufacturing

M

ars, Incorporated will expand its Australian manufacturing operations to the tune of $200 million by 2027.

In June 2026, Mars will expand its Wodonga pet food factory. The new, $112.5 million wet pouch facility will create over 60 regional jobs.

Managing director and general manager petcare Australia and New Zealand, Melodie Nye, said the investment will enable Mars to increase operational efficiencies and deliver on the expectations of its customers and consumers.

“We are proud of the role our Australian manufacturing sites play across our operations and this investment strengthens that commitment for the long term,” Nye said.

“Our teams continue to lead the way in quality, innovation and sustainability. This next phase of investment ensures we can keep delivering the trusted products Australians rely on every day.”

Since 2020, Mars has invested more than $450 million in its Australian operations to modernise, increase capacity and improve quality, efficiency and sustainability.

“This latest investment demonstrates the belief of Mars in the future of Australian manufacturing

Mars’ $112.5 Wodonga pet food factory will create over 60 regional jobs.

and the positive impact it has on the communities where we operate,” Nye said.

“When we invest locally, we create jobs, deepen capability and help regional economies thrive,

24 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

delivering long‑term value for people, pets and the planet.”

The company has been manufacturing locally for 110 years, with 90% of Mars products, from Masterfoods to Milkyway and

Pedigree to Whiskas, made in Australia.

Mars is still a family-owned company. Across its seven factories and two corporate, it employs 2,400 Australians. industryupdate.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

Record numbers attend ARBS 2026

A

RBS 2026 was a huge success, with the largest exhibitor footprint in the event’s history and record attendance at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The 19,000m² show floor had more than 300 exhibitors and was attended by 10,200 industry professionals over three days, confirming the biennial exhibition is the leading event for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration sector.

The event attracted the people and businesses shaping the future of the built environment. It closed with its largest ever show floor, a record education program and major industry awards recognising innovation, emerging talent and long-standing contribution.

ARBS CEO Amanda Searle said the event showcased the latest products, technologies and innovations in air conditioning, refrigeration and building services.

“ARBS 2026 has exceeded every expectation. The energy across the three days was high, from the show

floor to the seminar rooms to the networking events and the record attendance speaks to just how strong and connected this industry is,” she said.

“We’re incredibly proud of what the team and the industry have built together and deeply grateful to every exhibitor, speaker, partner and attendee who made this gathering so successful.”

ARBS 2026 delivered the most comprehensive education program in the event’s history, with over 100 seminars and product demonstrations attracting 7,000 session registrations and more than 140 speakers drawn from industry, research, government and the global built environment community.

Sessions spanned the full breadth of the sector, from refrigerant transitions and heat pump technology to smart buildings, decarbonisation and workforce development.

The event brought together professionals from across HVAC&R, mechanical services, building automation and allied sectors, with visitors travelling from across Australia

More than 10,000 people attended ARBS 2026

and internationally. The IBTech Pavilion, International Pavilion and Education Pavilion each drew strong engagement throughout the three days.

Program highlights included the Women Igniting Change event, co-delivered with FPA Australia, which featured inspirational speakers including Governor General Samantha Mostyn, Dr Bronwyn King, Pam Rogers, Melinda Davis, Michael Morgan and Debbie Lee. The inaugural Future Leaders Forum also made its debut, featuring a thought-provoking panel

discussion by industry leaders alongside the presentation of the Future Leader Award winners.

ARBS chair Professor Tony Arnel, ARBS Chair said the organisation exists to serve the industry.

“Events like this remind us of the extraordinary depth of talent, innovation and dedication within it. Record attendance is a wonderful outcome, but what matters most is the connections made, the knowledge shared and the sense of community that ARBS brings together every two years,” he said.

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industryupdate.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 25

INDUSTRY NEWS

SEMMA launches new Food Manufacturers Group

T

he South East Melbourne Manufacturers Association (SEMMA) has announced a major development for the Food & Beverage sector, with a new group set up for food manufacturers in the region.

SEMMA represents one of Australia’s manufacturing powerhouses, an area that contributes $89 billion to the economy through 3800 manufacturing businesses employing 75,000 people.

“We have responded to industry calls for a Food Manufacturers Group to bring professionals and their organisations together to enhance and improve their professional development opportunities and business growth through a dedicated network,” said SEMMA CEO Honi Walker.

“There are dozens of food manufacturers in the south east, and like most manufacturing, they operate under the radar and just get on with delivering their delicious local products rain, hail or shine.

“Food manufacturers are an essential service with so many organisations dependent on daily deliveres – think hospitals, aged care and of course, supermarkets.

SEMMA have launched a new group for F&B manufacturers in Melbourne

“The technology to bring our daily necessities to our tables is exciting and we want to support those people and their businesses to continue to grow.”

Following the success of other industry groups, SEMMA and the two founding partners, local manufacturers Michaelona Flavours and

Phase 9 NPD, will present professional development opportunities, industry updates and networking opportunities on an ongoing basis.

“We knew SEMMA was the right group to take this forward.

The opportunities for growth in the region are substantial, and the industry needs a dedicated

network to continue growth,” said Michaelona Flavours Managing Director Mike Weber.

SEMMA – South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance semma.com.au

Leading door supplier strengthens national footprint with acquisition

O

ne of Australia’s leading door suppliers, Kaplan Door Group, has deepened its offering to Australia’s manufacturing sector with the acquisition of Queensland industrial door manufacturer and service provider Integrity Door Services.

Based in Acacia Ridge, Integrity Door Services has operated for more than 40 years as a family-owned and operated business, specialising in industrial steel roller shutter doors as well as service and repair work across the commercial construction, government, education, health and industrial sectors.

The acquisition sees Integrity Door Services join Kaplan Door Group’s growing portfolio of specialist door businesses across Australia.

The Group already includes The Australian Trellis Door Company, Bildspec and EBS Entrance Solutions, with the combined business offering a broad range of specialised door and access systems across industrial, commercial and security applications.

These include aluminium roller shutters and folding doors, glass stackable doors, trackless security barriers, retractable trellis doors, high-speed insulated doors, operable walls and specialised security systems.

Kaplan Door Group said the acquisition strengthens its technical capability and national reach, while allowing Integrity Door Services to continue operating with its existing management team and staff in place.

The company said maintaining continuity was a key priority, ensuring customers continue to receive the same level of service and support established over the past four decades.

As part of the broader national group, Integrity Door Services will also gain access to expanded resources, technical support and project capability, allowing the business to support customers on projects across Australia as well as throughout South East Queensland.

The acquisition reflects ongoing consolidation and growth

26 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Kaplan Door Group has bought out Integrity Door Services

across Australia’s industrial access and building solutions sector, as businesses look to expand product offerings, technical expertise and

national service capability.

Australian Trellis Door trellisdoors.com.au industryupdate.com.au

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Award-winning small business Packserv extends ambition in automation

Packserv won the Small Business Award at the 2025 Australian Manufacturing Awards

F

or two decades, Packserv has supported Australian manufacturers designing and manufacturing packaging machinery for industries including FMCG, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care and industrial chemicals.

Over that time, the company has built a reputation for practical engineering, local technical support and machinery designed to scale alongside growing businesses.

As manufacturers continue to navigate rising operating costs, labour shortages and increasing production pressures, Packserv has focused its investment on automation and technology to improve efficiency, flexibility and long-term productivity.

“Manufacturers today need equipment that is adaptable and capable of growing with their business,” says Nathan Wardell, Managing Director of Packserv.

“The focus is no longer simply on output. Businesses are looking for smarter production systems that improve efficiency, reduce downtime and provide greater visibility across operations.”

A key part of this investment has been the expansion of Packserv’s PLC-driven machinery range.

Designed and manufactured in Australia, the company’s PLCdriven filling and capping machines represent the next stage in intelligent production systems.

Following the successful launch of Packserv’s PLC Twin-Head Filling Machine, Packserv has recently introduced the PLC Four-Head

Filling Machine.

It has been developed to deliver high throughput while maintaining flexibility, safety and hygiene compliance across a range of industries.

The machine is suitable for food and pharmaceutical, HACCP and TGA-compliant environments, as well as industrial facilities requiring IECEx or ATEX-rated equipment.

Packserv’s PLC Four-Head Filler features four independent filling heads capable of dispensing between 500ml and 5000ml per stroke.

Multi-shot functionality also allows manufacturers to fill larger containers, including 200L drums and 1000L IBCs, making the system suitable for diverse production requirements across a single packaging line.

A defining feature of the machine is its fully pneumatic operation. By using compressed air and eliminating electrical components at the point of fill, the system helps reduce ignition risk in facilities handling volatile products while also supporting wash-down capability for hygienic processing environments.

Its bottom-up filling action is designed to minimise foaming, splashing and product loss across a range of liquids, including detergents, oils, sauces and industrial chemicals.

Constructed from 316-grade stainless steel with tool-free disassembly, the machine also supports efficient cleaning and compliance with strict manufacturing standards.

“We developed the PLC Four-Head

28 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

and Twin-Head Filling machine range to address a growing demand for robust pneumatic solutions that easily integrate into modular production lines,” said Wardell.

“These machines incorporate advanced automation features and production data monitoring.”

Packserv has also launched an Industry 4.0-enabled PLCcontrolled capping machine designed to simplify production while improving operational consistency.

Equipped with an HMI touchscreen interface, the machine allows operators to navigate settings, switch between products and save job configurations to reduce downtime during changeovers.

Built-in production tracking provides real-time visibility of throughput and completed jobs, helping manufacturers make faster, more informed production decisions.

The machine’s PLC architecture also enables real-time data capture and consistent control logic across a variety of container and cap formats.

“The PLC Capper was developed to simplify production while maintaining consistency across every run,” explained Wardell.

“Manufacturers are managing increasingly diverse product ranges, so the ability to quickly adjust settings, minimise downtime and maintain accuracy is essential.”

A major focus for Packserv is making advanced automation accessible to small and medium-sized manufacturers, rather than limiting

Industry 4.0 technology to large multinational operations.

Through Packserv’s “Buy for Life” program, equipment is also designed to be upgraded and supported over time through locally manufactured parts and Australian-based technical support.

To further improve accessibility, alongside purchase, Packserv also offers rent and rent-to-buy options, helping manufacturers adopt automation without the need for upfront capital investment.

“We understand that every manufacturer is at a different stage of growth,” said Wardell.

“Our goal is to make automation more accessible and to provide scalable solutions that support businesses as they expand production.”

Alongside ongoing innovation, the company has expanded its international presence, recently launching into the United States through Packserv’s representative, FP Developments.

“There is strong global demand for machinery that combines ease of use with compact, modular designs,” said Wardell.

“Australian manufacturing has a reputation for practical engineering and high-quality equipment, and we’re seeing growing interest from manufacturers overseas.”

Packserv has also strengthened its local offering through strategic distribution agreements, including its recent appointment as the Australian distributor for SIAT, a global manufacturer of end-of-line packaging equipment.

The alliance expands Packserv’s capabilities in case sealing, carton handling and pallet wrapping machinery, allowing the company to deliver more integrated packaging line solutions.

Despite ongoing challenges facing Australian manufacturing, including supply chain pressures, labour shortages and rising operational costs, Packserv remains focused on continued investment in Australian manufacturing.

“With continued investment in innovation, automation and local manufacturing capability, Australia has a significant opportunity to remain globally competitive,” said Wardell.

“Manufacturers are embracing smarter technologies and compact, end-to-end modular production lines, and we’re proud to be supporting that transition.”

Packserv - packserv.co industryupdate.com.au

AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING AWARDS

Victorian Government backs 2026 Australian Manufacturing Awards

I

ndustry Update is proud to announce the flagship event partner for the 2026 Australian Manufacturing Awards, with the Victorian Government taking naming rights for the Australian manufacturing industry’s night of nights.

Following a successful debut in Sydney last year, the event will be held in Melbourne at Crown on 8 October 2026.

The 2026 event will be known as ‘the ‘Australian Manufacturing Awards 2026, supported by the Victorian State Government.’

The Victorian Government is also sponsoring the prestigious Hall of Fame Award. The award was won last year by industry leader John Notaras of Atom Industries..

The Awards were a roaring success in Sydney in 2025, with over 500 attendees packing out the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth to celebrate everything great about Australia’s manufacturing industry.

Celebrated TV presenter Tracey Spicer hosted the inaugural event, and the keynote speaker was Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, who flew directly from trade talks at

The Victorian Government have thrown their support behind the Australian Manufacturing Awards

the White House in Washington D.C. to address the crowd.

“We are delighted to welcome the Victorian Government on board as our Platinum Partner and naming rights sponsor,” said Industry Update

publisher Scott Filby.

“Last year’s event was an almighty success, and with such a prestigious partner involved for our first Victorian edition of the Awards, we are expecting everything about it to

be bigger and better.

“Nominations are now open, and every manufacturer in Australia should get involved to make this a true celebration of our sector.”

optimising operations.

“The real opportunity now lies in turning that operational intelligence into commercial advantage.

“The organisations that succeed over the next decade will be those that connect what happens on the factory floor with what happens in front of the customer.

“That’s why we’re proud to support the Australian Manufacturing Awards, including the Excellence in Manufacturing Award for Women, and recognise the leaders driving innovation, growth and competitiveness across the industry.

“SugarAI looks forward to

celebrating the achievements of Australia’s manufacturing community and recognising the individuals and organisations helping shape the future of the industry.”

“SugarAI’s goals align strongly with the purpose of the Australian Manufacturing Awards,” said Scott Filby, Publisher of Industry Update and organiser of the AMAs. “We were delighted to have them onboard for our inaugural event in Sydney, and are even more excited to bring them with us for round two in Melbourne.”

SugarAI backs excellence as sponsor of brand new Award

S

ugarAI have renewed their sponsorship of the Australian Manufacturing Awards (AMAs), and will take naming rights on a brand new category set to debut in 2026.

The recently rebranded SugarAI helps manufacturers turn operational and customer intelligence into commercial advantage and will sponsor the Gold Award for Excellence in Manufacturing (Female) category in 2026.

The second edition of the Awards is confirmed for October 8 at the Crown Melbourne, with the event moving south to Victoria following a

stellar start in Sydney late last year.

In 2025, there was a single Gold Award for Excellence in Manufacturing, but in 2026, it will be expanded to male and female categories to reflect the breadth of diversity within the manufacturing sector, and to recognise the outstanding women driving innovation, growth and leadership across the industry.

“Australian manufacturers don’t have a productivity problem,” said Adam Frank, Senior Vice President and General Manager - APAC, SugarAI. “For decades they’ve been refining processes, improving quality and

30 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

SugarAI - sugarai.com industryupdate.com.au

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING AUTOMATION & SUPPLY CHAIN EVENT

The trade show for intralogistics, robotics and automation, warehousing, supply chain management, materials handling, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, chemicals, and industrial manufacturing.

23–25 June 2026 • MCEC Melbourne Visit cemat.com.au to pre-register for the event or to enquire about becoming an exhibitor.

CeMAT FEATURE

CeMAT Australia to showcase future of logistics and automation

N

o brand is too big to go out of business. Blockbuster proved that. Once one of the most recognised names in entertainment, it failed to move quickly enough as technology, customer behaviour and the market changed around it.

The lesson still matters today.

Businesses rarely fail because the market stands still. They fail because they do.

For businesses across warehousing, logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, processing and packaging, modernisation is no longer a future project. It is happening now.

Automation, robotics, AI, warehouse software, materials handling systems, data platforms, fulfilment technology and smarter industrial equipment are changing how goods move, how teams work and how operations compete.

The businesses that understand this shift will be better placed to improve productivity, reduce risk and respond to changing market conditions. Those that wait too long may find the market has already moved without them.

That is why CeMAT Australia 2026 matters.

Returning to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 23 to 25 June 2026, this year’s event arrives at an important moment for industry.

Businesses are looking for technology that does more than sound impressive. They need solutions that can integrate with existing operations, support their teams, improve output, reduce downtime and deliver measurable return.

CeMAT Australia gives visitors the chance to see those solutions in person.

Across the show floor, visitors will be able to explore technology and equipment across automation, robotics, warehouse management systems, storage, racking, forklifts, materials handling, transport, fulfilment, packaging, processing equipment, safety, software, sustainability and supply chain technology.

It is also a chance to meet the people behind the systems. In industries where decisions can involve major capital investment, operational change and long-term supplier relationships, seeing the technology in

action still matters.

A brochure can explain what a system does. A website can show what it looks like. But only an event floor allows visitors to ask direct questions, compare suppliers, watch equipment move and understand whether a solution is right for their own operation.

The real strength of CeMAT Australia is not just the size of the show floor. It is the calibre of the businesses using the event to show where the industry is heading.

As Event Partner, Dematic will be a major presence at CeMAT Australia 2026, bringing its global expertise in intelligent automation, integrated supply chain technology and warehouse innovation to the centre of the event.

For visitors looking at how to modernise their operations, Dematic represents exactly the kind of future-facing thinking the show is built around.

Dematic will be joined by other major industry leaders including SSI Schaefer, Swisslog, Softeon, Kardex, Automate X, AutoStore, Grant Thornton, Linde Material Handling, Jungheinrich, Argon & Co, Epicor, LiftPass and Central Innovation, alongside a wide range of suppliers across automation, warehousing, materials handling, software, racking, safety, packaging and supply chain technology.

That breadth matters.

Modern operations are no longer made up of separate moving parts. A warehouse decision affects transport. A packaging decision affects fulfilment. A software decision affects labour, reporting, accuracy and customer service.

The businesses that perform best are the ones that understand how all of these systems connect.

That is why CeMAT Australia will again be co-located with Industrial Transformation Australia and the Processing & Packaging Pavilion powered by APPMA. Together, the events give visitors a wider view of how technology is changing logistics, manufacturing, processing, packaging and industrial operations.

Across the education program, visitors will also be able to step away from the show floor and hear directly from the people shaping

32 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

The latest in supply chain and intralogistics tech will be on display

these changes.

The Knowledge Theatre, inspired and powered by SSI Schaefer, will cover topics including digital twins, warehouse automation, retail fulfilment, Logistics 4.0, AMRs, intelligent warehousing, AI, robotics, integration and operational transformation.

Industrial Transformation Australia’s Innovation Stage, supported by Central Innovation, will take the conversation further, focusing on the real decisions behind industrial technology adoption.

It will look at where investment is working, where businesses are still hesitating and how companies can move from interest to implementation.

Then there are the live moments on the floor.

The Australian Forklift Championships will bring skill, safety, precision and competition into the centre of the event, with support from Hyundai, Dexion, Kaup, Genie, Axelent, Bearcat, Michelin, Forklift Action, ForkPro and Healthy Heads.

It is one of the most engaging features of the show and a reminder that even as automation accelerates, people and practical capability The event will also include the CeMAT Australia Bar and Networking Function, sponsored

by Softeon, on Day 2, Wednesday 24 June, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.

The function gives visitors, exhibitors and industry leaders the chance to continue conversations from the show floor, build new relationships and connect with the people shaping the future of the sector.

The show will also give visitors a first-hand look at new technology entering the market. Extolla will reintroduce Attabotics to the APAC

market following its collaboration with Lafayette Engineering.

Hyundai will showcase a new 16T forklift using a 300V battery, described as a world first at the show.

Dematic will also introduce its two-way shuttle solution, giving visitors another example of how automation is evolving inside modern warehouse and logistics environments.

These are not abstract ideas.

They are the kinds of systems and technologies that could change how a facility stores, moves, tracks, lifts, packs and delivers goods.

That is why seeing them in person matters.

For businesses looking at major technology decisions, it is not enough to know that a solution exists.

They need to understand how it works, how it integrates, what questions to ask and whether it can solve the problems inside their own operation.

CeMAT Australia 2026 brings that conversation into one place.

It gives visitors the chance to compare suppliers, speak with experts, attend practical sessions, see technology live and leave with a clearer view of what their next move should be.

For exhibitors and sponsors, it is a chance to meet the buyers, operators and decision-makers who are actively looking for better ways to run their operations.

Modernisation is no longer about chasing the next trend. It is about making sure your business does not get left behind.

CeMAT Australia gives the industry a place to come together, see what is changing and make more confident decisions about the future.

CeMAT Australia - cemat.com.au industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

Knapp to brings largest automation showcase yet to CeMAT Australia 2026

K

napp Australia will showcase its broadest portfolio of automation technologies yet at CeMAT Australia 2026, bringing together warehouse robotics, artificial intelligence, smart packaging and advanced sortation technologies across two dedicated exhibition stands.

The expanded presence reflects the growing demand for integrated automation solutions as businesses face increasing pressure to improve efficiency, manage labour challenges and meet rising customer expectations.

At the centre of the showcase will be the Australian exhibition debut of AeroBot, Knapp’s innovative automated storage and retrieval system that attracted significant attention following its global launch at LogiMAT 2026 in Germany.

Located at Stand F13, visitors will have the opportunity to experience a live AeroBot demonstration, showcasing how autonomous robots navigate vertically and horizontally throughout a storage system to retrieve

As e-commerce growth, SKU proliferation and faster delivery expectations continue to reshape supply chains, intelligent sortation has become an essential link between warehouse operations and final dispatch.

Knapp’s sorter solutions help businesses efficiently manage high order volumes while improving accuracy and supporting scalable growth.

Together, the two exhibits demonstrate Knapp’s ability to support customers across the entire fulfilment journey - from storage and retrieval through to software, packaging, sorting and dispatch.

“Knapp’s strength lies in the breadth of our portfolio and our ability to support customers across the entire value chain,” said Michael Kemeny, Managing Director, Knapp Australia.

“From intelligent software and robotics through to packaging and sortation, we’re bringing together technologies that solve real operational challenges.

inventory with speed and precision.

Designed to maximise storage density while maintaining flexibility and scalability, AeroBot represents the latest evolution in warehouse automation and highlights how businesses can unlock new dimensions of storage performance.

The stand will also feature Knapp Brain, the company’s new AI platform designed to help businesses gain greater visibility, optimise processes and support more intelligent decision-making across fulfilment operations.

While robotics and AI will take centre stage at Stand F13, Knapp’s second exhibit at Stand A13 will focus on another critical component of modern fulfilment operations: smart packaging and sortation.

Operating under the banner “Smart Sorting Engineered for Speed”, the stand will showcase technologies designed to streamline material flow, improve throughput and support increasingly complex fulfilment requirements.

The AeroBot from Knapp

“CeMAT Australia gives us the opportunity to showcase more of that capability than ever before and give the Australian market a firsthand look at the technologies shaping the future of intelligent fulfilment.”

Visitors to CeMAT Australia 2026 will have the opportunity to see these technologies firsthand and explore how integrated automation solutions are helping create more agile, efficient and future-ready supply chains.

KnappAustralia will exhibit at Stand F13 – “Rise to New Dimensions” and Stand A13 – “Smart Sorting Engineered for Speed” at CeMAT Australia 2026.

KNAPP - knapp.com

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 33

CeMAT FEATURE

Why manufacturing’s next opportunity lies beyond the factory floor

A

head of CeMAT 2026, SugarAI explores why commercial visibility is becoming the next competitive advantage for manufacturers and distributors.

Australian manufacturing has long been an early adopter of technology, investing heavily in automation, robotics, ERP platforms and operational systems to improve efficiency, quality and productivity.

As a result, most manufacturers today have strong visibility into operational performance. They can track production, inventory, supply chain activity and financial performance with greater precision than ever before.

Yet while operational visibility has improved dramatically, the commercial side often remains a challenge. Many organisations still struggle with forecasting confidence and identifying growth opportunities across their customer base.

Each remains a challenge, and a significant opportunity, for many manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers despite the vast amount of customer, operational and ERP data already available to them.

SugarAI will be exhibiting at CeMAT Australia 2026

The challenge is turning that data into actionable insight.

“You can’t run a precision factory on an imprecise forecast.

Manufacturers have become incredibly sophisticated at managing

Adam Frank, Vice President and General Manager at SugarAI APAC 34 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

operations. The opportunity now is bringing that same level of precision to forecasting, growth and decision-making,” said Adam Frank, Vice President and General Manager APAC at SugarAI. Sales and account management teams often struggle to identify customer risk and confidently forecast future demand – making the supply part of the business harder to manage.

According to Frank, helping organisations unlock and act on that intelligence represents the next evolution of CRM. “The original promise of CRM was simple: help sellers to understand customers and drive growth,” he said.

“Over time, this software became systems of record. Organisations invested significant effort into capturing information but often received little guidance in return.

AI creates an opportunity to change that.”

By connecting signals across ERP, customer, financial and operational systems, AI can help organisations identify risk, uncover opportunities and prioritise action.

For manufacturers and distributors, this means moving beyond reporting what happened yesterday to understanding where to focus next. That could be exploring whitespace opportunities, strengthening customer relationships or

improving forecasting confidence.

This shift, from system of record to system of guidance, sits at the heart of SugarAI’s recent rebrand and Precision Selling approach.

These themes will be central to SugarAI’s presence at CeMAT Australia 2026.

Visitors to Booth IT29 can explore practical examples of how manufacturers and distributors are using Precision Selling to improve forecasting confidence, identify growth opportunities and drive stronger commercial outcomes.

“Manufacturers don’t have a productivity problem.” said Frank.

“They’ve spent decades refining processes, improving quality and optimising operations. The real opportunity now lies in turning that operational intelligence into commercial advantage.

“The organisations that succeed over the next decade will be those that connect what happens on the factory floor with what happens in front of the customer.”

Visit SugarAI at Booth IT29 and join Adam Frank’s keynote session, You Can’t Run a Precision Factory on an Imprecise Forecast, to explore how manufacturers are turning operational intelligence into commercial advantage.

SugarAI - sugarai.com industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

Why Australian facilities are accelerating robotics adoption in 2026

A

cross Australia, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, shopping centres, transport hubs and large commercial sites are facing growing operational pressure.

Rising labour costs, staff shortages, increasing workplace safety expectations and the demand for higher cleaning standards are pushing businesses to rethink traditional facility maintenance models.

As a result, autonomous cleaning and industrial robotics are rapidly becoming part of mainstream operations rather than experimental technology.

In 2026, more Australian businesses are shifting towards intelligent robotic cleaning systems that can operate continuously, reduce manual workload and improve consistency across large-scale environments.

One of the key drivers behind this transition is the need for operational efficiency. Large facilities often require extensive labour resources to maintain cleaning standards across wide floor areas, especially in warehouses, logistics centres, airports, retail centres and manufacturing sites.

Traditional cleaning methods can struggle to deliver consistent results while also meeting increasing expectations around workplace safety and productivity.

Autonomous robotic systems are helping organisations address these challenges through continuous operation, AI-driven navigation and data-based cleaning management.

Modern cleaning robots are now capable of far more than simple

automated movement.

New-generation systems use advanced technologies such as AI visual recognition, LiDAR navigation, VSLAM positioning, obstacle avoidance and real-time environmental analysis to operate safely and efficiently in dynamic environments with both people and vehicles.

The latest robotic sweepers are designed specifically for large-scale commercial and industrial environments where cleaning demands are high and operational downtime must be minimised.

For example, the Pudu MT1 robotic sweeper series has been developed to support large-area autonomous cleaning across warehouses, manufacturing plants, transport facilities, shopping complexes and commercial buildings.

With AI-powered trash recognition and intelligent spot cleaning capabilities, the system can identify and respond to debris automatically while maintaining efficient route planning and continuous operation.

Unlike conventional cleaning equipment, autonomous systems can operate for extended hours with minimal human intervention.

This enables businesses to maintain consistent cleaning standards throughout the day and night while allowing cleaning staff to focus on higher-value tasks that require human judgement and interaction.

The growing adoption of robotics is also being influenced by workplace safety priorities.

Autonomous cleaning systems reduce repetitive manual tasks, improve cleaning consistency and

Pudu Robotics are exhibiting at CeMAT 2026 36 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

The Pudu MT1 Vac combines sweeping, vacuuming and dust mopping into a single autonomous platform

help minimise exposure to potentially hazardous environments such as high-traffic warehouse aisles, loading areas and industrial facilities.

At the same time, many organisations are looking for scalable solutions that can adapt to different environments and floor conditions.

This is where newer robotic platforms are beginning to differentiate themselves.

The Pudu MT1 Vac, for instance, combines sweeping, vacuuming and dust mopping into a single autonomous platform designed for advanced dry-cleaning applications.

With high-efficiency dual-fan vacuum technology and AI-powered floor recognition, the system can automatically adapt between carpet and hard-floor environments while maintaining strong cleaning performance.

For facilities such as hotels, airports, office buildings, exhibition centres and healthcare environments, this level of flexibility can significantly improve operational efficiency while reducing cleaning interruptions.

Meanwhile, semi-outdoor and high-dynamic environments are also becoming an important focus for robotics deployment.

Areas such as parking structures, industrial parks, residential complexes, transport terminals and public walkways present additional operational challenges due to vehicle traffic, changing weather conditions and variable lighting environments.

To support these applications,

systems such as the Pudu MT1 Max incorporate 3D LiDAR perception, enhanced obstacle avoidance and AI adaptive cleaning technologies that allow the robot to operate more effectively in complex and fast-changing environments.

These developments reflect a broader shift in how businesses are approaching automation.

Rather than viewing robotics purely as a labour replacement tool, many organisations are now treating robotic systems as operational infrastructure - similar to automated warehousing systems, IoT monitoring platforms and intelligent building technologies.

The ability to collect operational data, generate cleaning reports, integrate with elevators and access systems and remotely monitor performance is becoming increasingly valuable for facility managers seeking measurable operational outcomes.

Australia’s industrial and commercial sectors are expected to continue investing in automation technologies as businesses look for smarter ways to improve efficiency, maintain safety standards and respond to ongoing labour market challenges.

As robotics technology continues to mature, autonomous cleaning systems are likely to become a standard part of modern facility operations across logistics, manufacturing, retail, healthcare and public infrastructure environments.

PUDU - erarobotics.ai industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

Muting in practice: When safety becomes a vulnerability

M

uting allows the safety function on machines or systems to be temporarily bypassed so that material can be fed in or out through protective devices such as light curtains or laser scanners without interrupting the production process.

Personal safety must be guaranteed at all times. Muting applications repeatedly reach their limits in practice, however, allowing incorrect operation and manipulation.

In such cases, alternative security concepts are required.

Unconscious risks Various types of muting are used in industrial automation: 2-sensor, 4-sensor, time-controlled or sequence-controlled processes. The international standard DIN EN IEC 62046 regulates the requirements for entry and exit stations with muting and stipulates in particular.

• Muting must be activated via at least two independent bridging signals • Muting must offer protection against foreseeable incorrect operation or manipulation The standard thus defines clear requirements for the implementation of muting applications. In practice, however, it is not always fully complied with – either because the specific application requirements are not fully known and may therefore differ from real-life conditions, or because risky compromises are deliberately made to achieve high process stability.

As a result, safety functions become less effective, and manipulation or incorrect operation are more likely. For operators, this means an unconsciously increased liability risk and potentially serious consequences for employee safety.

Hazard 1: Safety gap due to “pallet muting” In automated systems, meshed containers or other objects that are difficult for muting sensors to detect are often fed onto or discharged from pallets (Figure 1).

The openings in the mesh structure prevent the muting sensors from generating a stable switching signal, making it impossible to mute the safety device.

In practice, the pallet itself is sometimes used as a muting trigger (Figure 2) – a procedure that is not permitted: A person could, for example, place an empty pallet in the safety device and thereby

deliberately disable the protective device.

Fig 1: A pallet cage is loaded onto a pallet.

Leuze are experts in light curtains and other similar systems

Fig 2: Muting on pallet

Solution: Smart Process Gating (SPG) This safety gap can be reliably closed with Smart Process Gating (SPG). The bridging function is activated by two independent control signals without external muting sensors. The gating on the safety light curtain is activated by • a CS switching signal (control signal) from the system control as the first (initiation) signal • a PFI protective field interruption signal, triggered by the transported goods in the light curtain protective field, as a second (verification) signal

Fig 3: CS switching signal and PFI signal activate the bridging.

The gating function is activated by the correct sequence of CS switching signal and protective field violation and is monitored by the light curtain.

38 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Shortly before the transported goods enter the protective field, the process control system (PLC) sends the CS switching signal to the safety light curtains.

The timing must be set so that the distance between the transported goods and the protective field is less than 200 millimeters, preventing another person from passing through immediately before the goods.

If the transported goods enter the protective field within four seconds, the light curtain uses its own PFI signal and suppresses a safety shutdown.

Gating ends either automatically immediately after the conveyed material has passed through and the protective field has been cleared, or by resetting the CS switching signal via the PLC. This method enables a particularly compact and space-saving system design, as no additional muting sensors are required directly upstream or downstream.

Hazard 2: Safety gap due to incompletely loaded pallets If a pallet is only partially loaded, or if the transported objects are significantly narrower than the conveyor system, a gap will occur during muting.

A person can enter the danger zone through this gap without the safety function being triggered.

To close the safety gap, the standard limits the maximum permissible clearance next to the transported goods to 200 millimeters.

In real-world applications, however, passage gaps are often significantly larger, making it easy to bypass the protective device.

Fig 4: Excessive distance during muting: A person could enter the danger zone unnoticed alongside the transported goods.

Solution: Access guarding with dynamic format adaptation This hazard can be eliminated by means of access protection with dynamic format adjustment. Here, two safety laser scanners generate a joint, closed, vertical protective field.

In addition, distance sensors installed on both sides of the conveyor belt detect the position and width of the goods on the pallet – alternatively, this can also be determined using the scanners’ integrated measuring function.

The safety system uses this information to release a corresponding area in the protective field through which the transported goods can be conveyed without interruption.

Access to the sides of the goods remains secured in accordance with standards. After the transported goods have passed through, the protective field is automatically closed again.

If a person is walking or driving alongside them, this is also reliably detected. This safety solution’s innovative safety concept enables Performance Level in accordance with EN ISO 13849-1.

Leuze are exhibiting at CeMAT Australia 2026 and can be found at Stand P13 Leuze - leuze.com industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

Odoo to showcase all-in-one software platform at CeMAT

F

ounded in Belgium, Odoo has been one of the pioneers of enterprise software by delivering an intuitive, fully integrated suite of business applications to users globally.

They believe business software should cover complex needs without being complicated.

Their mission is to provide software that is intuitive, full-featured, tightly integrated and effortless to upgrade, all while running smoothly for every business and every user.

Today, their team across 21 offices empowers millions of companies to streamline their operations, remove system silos andscale effortlessly.

Since establishing their Gold Coast headquarters in 2023, the Odoo Australia team has been dedicated to transforming local SMEs by introducing an all-in-one, robust platform that seamlessly manages CRM, eCommerce, finance and human resources.

Odoo’s presence at this year’s

CeMAT Australia - the world’s leading trade fair for materials handling and supply chain management - is part of their initiative to connect with local Australian businesses.

Backed by vast industry experience in Australia, Odoo’s experts are ready to showcase how their allin-one solution provides business owners with the visibility they need for supply chain management.

They will also demonstrate how businesses can take their operations to the next level using advanced features like automated replenishment, push-and-pull routing and smart putaway rules within Odoo’s core inventory management system.

They understand that a business cannot operate at peak efficiency if it relies on multiple disconnected systems.

With Odoo, business owners can manage every single aspect of their ecosystem: supply chain logistics, procurement, manufacturing, sales and finance.

Odoo will be exhibiting their solutions at CeMAT

Fluidity and full integration cover the needs of even the most complex companies. The flexibility of Odoo is such that apps can be added according to the growth of your company, adding one app at a time as your needs evolve and your customer base grows. At CeMAT, business owners and industry leaders will have a chance to witness how a unified system directly translates to operational efficiency.

For Australian businesses that are looking for game-changing tools

to advance their business, the Odoo team is at CeMAT ready to showcase Odoo’s capabilities.

They also look forward to connecting and partnering with Australian entrepreneurs and industry leaders - through challenging the traditional methods of supply chain management and delivering the ultimate platform that leads the industry into the future.

Odoo - odoo.com

An all-in-one business management solution tailored to your needs The only software you need to run your business

industryupdate.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 39

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CeMAT FEATURE

Combilift highlights space-saving solutions at CeMAT

A

t CeMAT, Irish manufacturer Combilift will showcase its latest material handling solutions designed to help companies move, store and manage loads more safely, efficiently and sustainably while optimising valuable warehouse space.

Visitors can explore Combilift’s extensive range of innovative solutions, from the Aisle Master narrow-aisle articulated forklift to the multidirectional C-Series and Combi-CB ranges, as well as its pedestrian-operated products.

Ahead of National Forklift Safety Day on 9 June, Combilift is highlighting how its wide range of products improves material-handling safety without compromising storage capacity or operational efficiency.

Safety is central to Combilift’s design philosophy. Across its product portfolio, the company focuses on developing equipment that improves productivity and maximises space utilisation while actively reducing the potential for accidents, product damage, and operator injury.

Multidirectional forklifts for handling long loads Handling long and bulky materials such as timber panels or steel beams presents unique challenges.

Combilift’s multidirectional forklift range, the C-Series and Combi-CB, enables operators to transport these loads efficiently in confined spaces, both indoors and outdoors.

These operate like conventional forklifts, moving forward and backwards, but with the ability to change the direction of the wheels and travel sideways at the flick of a switch.

This multidirectional capability allows sideways navigation,

Combilift forklifts excel in large loads

eliminating the need for elevated loads when manoeuvring around machinery, obstacles or parked vehicles in restricted areas.

By improving manoeuvrability in confined spaces, it helps reduce the risk of damage to products, facilities and equipment while creating a safer operating environment.

The result is a more efficient and reliable material handling process that improves turnaround times and overall operational performance.

Additionally, it allows for much better and cost-effective use of all available space, which is one of a company’s most valuable assets.

Pedestrian Range: Innovative Tiller Arm In many warehousing applications, pedestrian-operated trucks can support safer working conditions by operating at lower speeds and keeping operators closer to both the load and the surrounding environment, helping them maintain further awareness and react to conditions around them.

Combilift’s purpose-built Their forklifts are also excellent in small spaces 42 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

electric pedestrian range is specifically designed for narrow aisles and space-restricted operations, enabling businesses to enhance productivity while maximising storage density safely and efficiently.

A key safety innovation within the Combilift pedestrian range is its patented multi-position tiller arm.

At the touch of a button, the arm rotates left or right while the rear wheel pivots parallel to the chassis.

That single movement repositions the operator from behind the truck to the side of it - out of the crush zone, with a clear and direct line of sight over both the load and the aisle.

In addition to the safety benefits, the multi-position tiller arm enables aisle widths to be reduced to as little as 2.1 metres without compromising manoeuvrability.

Operators can place loads more precisely, helping to reduce product damage and create a safer working environment.

Driving Sustainable Operations With a strong focus on greener technologies, 98% of Combilift’s R&D investment is dedicated to energy-efficient and electric equipment, with electric models now accounting for over 70% of production.

“Almost every model in our extensive range of products is now available with electric power,” said

Combilift’s CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar.

“The ever-increasing lift capacities will answer the demand for more powerful products, which at the same time help companies to achieve their aims for more sustainable operations” Don’t miss out – drop by Combilift’s stand at CeMAT In addition, at CeMAT stand P39, Combilift experts will be available to discuss how businesses can increase storage capacity and enhance workflow efficiency using Combilift’s versatile material handling solutions.

Combilift’s dedicated in-house team of design engineers and layout consultants also offers a free, no-obligation warehouse and yard optimisation service.

This service illustrates how warehouse space can be configured around the capabilities of Combilift’s products - in some cases doubling available storage capacity.

With nearly three decades of expertise and over 100,000 machines in operation worldwide, Combilift continues to drive Lifting Innovation, helping businesses make their material handling operations safer and more efficient while optimising their existing facilities.

Combilift - combilift.com industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

Swisslog to showcase next-gen automation solutions at CeMAT 2026

I

ntralogistics leader Swisslog will be showcasing its latest portfolio of scalable warehouse automation solutions as it exhibits at CeMAT this year in Melbourne, June 23-25, at Stand D27.

Swisslog will be exhibiting side by side with its parent company Kuka featuring the power of end-to-end automation solutions. As part of the Kuka Group, Swisslog’s strength lies in combining hardware, software, AI and services across the full automation lifecycle.

This year, Swisslog will feature its grid-based ASRS solution AutoStore, the new 4-way pallet shuttle system WonderStore as well as the SynQ software platform.

Swisslog solutions are designed to increase storage density, throughput flexibility and operational efficiency in fast-moving distribution environments. Kuka will exhibit demo

STORE MORE. WORK SAFER.

applications including Autonomous Mobile Robots from its KMP portfolio and industrial robots.

These modular, software-driven solutions help supply chain operators build long-term resilience, flexibility and performance.

They are a core part of the Swisslog and Kuka Automation 2.0 strategy. Automation 2.0 is the next step in industrial automation. It moves beyond individual machines to fully connected, intelligent and software-driven production and logistics systems.

“Supply chains need to continuously adapt,” said Steve Dimitrovski, Director of Sales, Swisslog Australia and New Zealand.

“Our focus is on delivering automation that continues to perform as businesses grow, shift and diversify – what we call being ‘Ready for the Next’.”

Swisslog’s Ready for the Next framework outlines five key pillars for future-ready automation, including outcome-led design, modular scalability, intelligent software architecture, integrated technology ecosystems and long-term partnership models.

“The cost of implementing the wrong type of automation is rarely immediate,” said Dimitrovski.

“Outdated or inflexible systems will reveal themselves through capacity constraints, costly retrofits and technology decisions that become harder to unpick the longer they’re left.

“Swisslog’s framework closes that gap by grounding automation investment in long-term outcomes rather than point-in-time delivery.”

During CeMAT, Swisslog will be offering exclusive guided site tours of the Mondelēz International West Melbourne distribution site, offering attendees a first-hand look at a live, high-performance automated facility in operation.

Swisslog’s stand is always one of the most popular at CeMAT

“These site tours are an opportunity to see automation operating at scale in a real-world environment,” said Dimitrovski.

“Mondelēz is one of the largest snack food companies in the world, and Swisslog’s ASRS solution allowed them to consolidate their Victorian Distribution Centres and their off-site storage, into one facility, with continuing benefits to efficiency, safety and throughput.”

Swisslog and several of its customers will also be presenting at the conference, and our website will be updated with presentation details as soon as the timeslots are confirmed.

Swisslog - swisslog.com

25 ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE & EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS WITH COMBILIFT Combilift’s range of multidirectional forklifts, pedestrian reach trucks, straddle carriers and container loaders will allow you to maximize the capacity, improve efficiency and enhance the safety of your facility.

Contact Us Today To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

combilift.com industry update Chris 214x139 rev 4.2.indd 1

industryupdate.com.au

08/05/2026 13:06:45

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 43

CeMAT FEATURE

Pallet Handling Equipment: Improving Safety and Efficiency in the Workplace

F

or businesses that receive, store, manufacture or dispatch products on pallets, efficient pallet handling is essential.

From palletising goods and storing inventory through to order picking and truck loading, every stage of the process presents opportunities to improve safety, productivity and operational efficiency.

For more than 45 years, East West Engineering has helped Australian businesses optimise their material handling operations with engineered solutions designed to reduce manual handling, improve workflow and increase productivity.

No two workplaces handle pallets in the same way. While many operations utilise traditional timber pallets, others use plastic pallets, steel pallets or slip sheets depending on their products and processes.

For businesses handling slip-sheeted loads, East West Engineering offers Push Pull attachments, which allow forklifts to efficiently load, unload and transport goods without the need for pallets.

This can reduce pallet costs while improving storage and transport efficiency.

Many workplaces also need to transfer products between pallet types, replace damaged pallets or invert loads during production processes.

This is common in cleanroom environments, food processing facilities and export operations where hygiene, compliance or export requirements may require pallet changes.

For these applications, East West Engineering provides solutions such as a floor-mounted Pallet Inverter and a forklift-mounted Pallet Inverter, enabling safe and efficient load rotation and pallet exchange with minimal manual handling.

Manual pallet loading and unloading can place significant strain on workers due to repetitive bending, stretching and reaching.

To improve ergonomics and reduce fatigue, East West Engineering supplies warehouse equipment designed specifically to support safer manual handling practices.

Spring Lift Tables maintain pallets at a comfortable working height as products are added or removed, helping reduce strain and improve

East West Engineering are materials handing experts

productivity during packing and dispatch operations.

Pallet turntables also provide significant ergonomic benefits by allowing operators to rotate loads while remaining in one position.

This nearside loading approach improves efficiency and reduces the need to walk around pallets during handling.

Options include a versatile Pallet Turntable, available in multiple configurations and a low-profile Pallet Turntable Disc, which is suitable for use with a hand pallet truck.

Forklifts play a critical role in pallet handling operations and the right attachments can significantly improve efficiency, accuracy and throughput.

Side shift attachments enable

44 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

operators to position loads precisely without repositioning the forklift, reducing handling time and improving placement accuracy.

Fork Positioners allow fork spacing to be adjusted hydraulically from the driver’s seat, making it easier to handle varying pallet sizes while improving productivity and reducing the risk of product damage.

For high-volume operations, Double Pallet Handlers allow operators to move two pallets at once, reducing travel time and increasing throughput.

Warehouses using double-deep racking systems or side-loading applications can also benefit from TF Telescopic Forks, which extend and retract hydraulically to improve load access and maximise storage

capacity.

There are many ways to improve pallet handling safety and efficiency, but selecting the right combination of equipment can be challenging.

East West Engineering has built its reputation on helping businesses identify and implement practical material handling solutions that improve workplace productivity while supporting safe operations.

Backed by more than 45 years of engineering experience, the company supplies quality equipment, expert advice and customised solutions tailored to individual applications.

East West Engineering eastwesteng.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

New forklift unlocks 50% more warehouse capacity, no licence needed

NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH STORE UP TO 50% MORE PALLETS

INTRODUCING

A WALKIE REACH STACKER ENGINEERED FOR DOUBLE-DEEP RACKING NOT RETROFITTED FOR IT

The new walkie reach forklift from Hyworth can now work double-deep pallet racking

F

or most warehouse operators, running out of space used to mean one of two costly choices: relocate or lease more space, but not anymore.

A new walkie reach forklift from Hyworth can now work double-deep pallet racking, a high-density layout that can store up to 50% more pallets in the same footprint, all without the need for a forklift licence.

Until now, the low cost and narrow footprint of a walk-behind forklift came with a catch: it couldn’t safely reach past the front pallet to access a second one behind it.

Using double-deep pallet racking meant a ride-on reach truck, wide aisles, a licensed operator, and $70,000 or more. Many warehouses simply couldn’t justify that cost.

But for Jonathan Polyblank, an engineer by trade and the founder of Hyworth Forklifts, a walkie reach with double-deep capability was a challenge a decade in the making. The forklift he first envisaged a decade ago has now finished development.

“Nothing we’ve released in Hyworth’s history has seen this kind of demand,” he said.

“This is the first time we’ve had to develop a first-come, first-served waitlist for a forklift.”

True Protein, a thriving Australian manufacturer, was among the first to secure one. industryupdate.com.au

Booming demand for its products has made for a fast-moving warehouse with complex problems to solve.

“Space in our cool room is limited, it’s a busy operation,” said Tony Van Yzendoorn, the architect of its warehouse.

“Going double-deep was the smart way to add capacity, and Hyworth’s Double Deep Walkie Reach met every one of those needs.”

Increased storage density is only one of the benefits. Many loading bays allow access from one side only, meaning a truck has to turn around to be unloaded fully.

The Double Deep Walkie Reach can reach both sides without the truck turning around, saving time on every load.

For added peace of mind, and in line with Hyworth’s commitment to value, the Double Deep Walkie Reach comes with a long list of features that are often costly extras elsewhere, backed by Hyworth’s reliability guarantee and industry-leading warranty.

The Double Deep Walkie Reach makes its public debut at CeMAT Australia 2026 in Melbourne this June, where visitors can see it in operation.

Hyworth Forklifts hyworthforklifts.com.au

• Reaches the back pallet

• Fits in aisles a ride-on can’t • Lifts into high-bay racking • No forklift license needed

To learn more, visit hyworthforklifts.com.au/DDWR Or see it in action at CeMAT 2026. Stand M30

1300 HYWORTH or 1300 499 678 | info@hyworthforklifts.com.au hyworthforklifts.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 45

CeMAT FEATURE

Crossmuller showcases integrated automation capability at CeMAT

F

or manufacturers seeking to modernise their operations, having a partner capable of delivering more than just one component of a project is increasingly important.

In automation projects, businesses are often looking for support from initial concept through to commissioning and ongoing operation.

That is where Crossmuller sits.

They are an end-to-end engineering and automation partner for manufacturing, warehousing and industrial operations, supporting projects from initial concept through to full operation.

The company’s capability spans planning and design, engineering, construction, electrical, automation, machine safety, systems integration, commissioning and ongoing support.

As industrial operations become increasingly automated and interconnected, many businesses are also facing growing challenges around integration, downtime and system complexity.

Rather than implementing

standalone pieces of equipment, manufacturers are increasingly looking for systems that work together seamlessly across the entire operation.

Crossmuller works across areas including automation and warehouse systems, electrical and control systems, factory and warehouse relocation, machine safety and automation consulting.

The company also provides systems integration capability designed to connect machinery, software and plant data into a single operational environment.

One of Crossmuller’s major points of difference is its ability to take responsibility for the entire project outcome rather than operating as a standalone contractor within a larger delivery process.

By bringing multiple disciplines together under one roof, they can provide clients with a single project partner from start to finish, helping reduce complexity and improve coordination across delivery.

Crossmuller will be exhibiting at CeMAT 2026 in Melbourne

Crossmuller CEO Tom Hagan said the company’s approach is built around integration and accountability.

“At Crossmuller, our strength is that we can take a project from the first idea right through to a fully operational system,” he said.

“Clients are not dealing with separate contractors for design, manufacturing, electrical, automation, safety and integration. They have one partner responsible for bringing it all together.”

Crossmuller will be exhibiting at CeMAT, the major trade event for the automation, intralogistics and supply chain industry in Australia, and will be showcasing their solutions on the show floor.

In particular, they will be displaying their new Machine Safety division, as well their capability across automation and automation consulting.

Crossmuller - crossmuller.com.au

ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS THAT DELIVER We delivering complete engineering solutions for manufacturing, warehousing & industrial operations.

From concept through to commissioning, CROSSMULLER brings together design, construction, electrical, automation and systems integration under one roof.

End to end Engineering Solutions:

Planning & Design

Automation

Manufacturing

Steel Erection

Electrical

Engineering

Sheet Metal

Systems Integration

Visit us at CeMAT Australia (Stand IT2) crossmuller.com.au

46 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

to connect and see our latest innovations in action.

industryupdate.com.au

CeMAT FEATURE

The simple fix for pallet decanting bottlenecks

I

n high-volume warehouses and distribution centres, even the smallest bottleneck can compound into significant losses in overall efficiency.

One common bottleneck occurs at pallet decanting stations, where empty pallets must be removed and replaced before picking can resume from a new pallet, causing regular disruptions to the picking process.

In many operations, this is managed by moving pallets manually with a forklift or other MHE. In addition to delaying the picking process while the empty pallet is being replaced, this also creates inefficiencies as the MHE must first remove the empty pallet before transporting the full one to the cleared space.

The EPRM Solution The Empty Pallet Return Module (EPRM) was created by Adept Conveyors as an economical solution to minimise disruptions to the pallet decanting process in

high-throughput operations.

With a simple mechanical design, the EPRM allows an empty pallet to be easily replaced with a full one in a matter of seconds.

How it works 1. Full pallets are placed onto the staging zone.

2. The picker releases the full pallet into the picking zone and begins picking. Another pallet can be placed in the staging area.

3. When the active pallet has been depleted, the picker uses foot pedals to release it into the return zone below for easy removal.

4. The picker immediately releases the next full pallet into the picking zone, allowing picking to continue within seconds.

Features of the EPRM The EPRM is a fully mechanical, gravity-actuated system, without any reliance on electronics, pneumatics or hydraulics. This simple

Adept Conveyors will be exhibiting at CeMAT in Melbourne

design means that EPRM units are cost effective to install and require minimal maintenance.

To prevent incorrect operation, such as releasing the full pallet before the empty pallet has been removed, EPRMs are also designed with multiple mechanical interlocks.

Another feature for improved efficiency is easy MHE access to both the staging zone and return zone, allowing empty pallets to be collected at the same time as full ones are delivered, eliminating a separate return trip.

Due to their compact design, EPRMs can easily fit into nearly any

warehouse layout, with the ability for many units to be placed side by side, either in pallet racking or as freestanding units.

EPRMs are purpose-built for high-throughput pallet decanting, and it is in these environments that their value is most compelling.

For operations where every second counts, a solution that returns pickers to work within seconds of emptying a pallet is difficult to overlook.

Adept Conveyors adeptconveyor.com.au

Engineered for Efficiency

Efficient

Looking for efficient pallet decanting? The Adept Conveyors Empty Pallet Return Modules (EPRMs) make it possible.

Economical

Effective

(02) 9771 4655 sales@adeptconveyor.com.au www.adeptconveyor.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 47

ELECTRONICS

Turck delivers safety upgrade for WA mining operation

Turck have a range of solutions that sustainable, highly scalable and safety-rated

W

hen a major mining operation in Western Australia needed a complete review and overhaul of 32 lifting and maintenance systems, they turned to Turck Australia & New Zealand.

These intricate systems are used for iron ore rolling stock servicing and the project’s primary objective was to modernise the control architecture while maintaining the highest levels of electrical and operational safety across the entire lifting network.

“We needed to deliver a sustainable, highly scalable, safety-rated solution while simplifying the installation and leaving room for further modifications and expansion in future,” said David Coghlan, Product Marketing and Channel Manager for Turck.

He adds that the most important objective of the project was in fact to retain the electrical and physical safety ratings, which should ideally be at SIL3/Cat4 of the complete

network, while complying with all relevant international standards for vehicle lifting jacks.

Coghlan explained that the original specification called for a Siemens Safety PLC with locally wired safety I/O. The team worked closely with the system integrator and end customer to deliver an alternative architecture using Turck’s TBPN Safety Modules with remote safety wiring over Profinet communication to the master PLC. “These TBPN Safety Modules are IP67/IP69K-rated and ideally designed for Profinet/Profisafe applications,” said Coghlan.

“They provide decentralised safety functionality directly at the machine level, eliminating the need for control cabinets. By integrating safe inputs and outputs with standard I/O - including IO-Link – we ensure that our solutions operate efficiently even in the most demanding environments.”

Talking to the application in focus, Coghlan explains that each lifting

48 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

jack station has since been equipped with a TBPN safety module, achieving SIL3 / Cat4 compliance across all 32 stations in accordance with relevant international standards for vehicle lifting systems.

“Twin RI360 encoders were also deployed on every jack to ensure precise synchronisation of lifting heights and eliminate anomalies caused by power failures or voltage spikes. In total, 64 RI360 encoders were supplied as part of the project scope,” said Coghlan.

Additional flexibility was achieved through the integration of four Turck FEN20-4IOL modules, enabling the capture of various IO-Link sensor inputs and providing capacity for future I/O expansion. In addition, Turck supplied a complete connectivity solution for the installation.

“By moving from traditional local wiring to Turck TBPN Safety Modules over Profinet, we were able to simplify installation while still achieving SIL3

/ Cat4 safety performance across the entire network. The architecture also gives the customer flexibility for future expansion and standardisation across similar lifting applications,” he said.

Following the successful implementation, the system integrator standardised on the Siemens and Turck TBPN safety solution for future projects and has subsequently ordered a Turck demonstration kit for ongoing sales and testing activities.

“The success of this project is proof of what strong collaboration, superior technical expertise and product excellence can do,” concluded Coghlan.

“While we are always dedicated to – and proficient in safety – across all industries, the mining industry is one of the most demanding and we pride ourselves in delivering solutions that last.”

Turck Australia - turck.com.au

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MATERIALS HANDLING

Custom stainless steel fabrication designed around your needs

Custom fabrication ensures your equipment fits seamlessly into your operation

E

very workplace operates differently. Standard products may not always fit the available space, workflow or operational requirements.

Custom fabrication allows businesses to create equipment that works exactly the way they need it to.

Their team works closely with customers to manufacture stainless steel products tailored to their dimensions, load requirements, mobility needs and functional

preferences.

Tente specialise in manufacturing custom stainless steel fabrication.

Whether you need a single bespoke unit or a full production run, they can deliver high-quality stainless steel products built to your specifications.

They can produce: • Custom stainless steel trolleys • Heavy-duty workbenches • Mobile storage solutions • Equipment stands

50 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

• One-off custom products.

Custom fabrication also ensures your equipment fits seamlessly into your operation rather than forcing your workflow to adapt to standard products.

From concept to completion, Tente can provide stainless steel fabrication solutions tailored to your business - in any quantity, for virtually any application.

Tente’s fabrication process focuses on:

• High-quality stainless steel materials • Precision manufacturing • Strong, reliable construction • Smooth finishes and professional presentation • Practical, user-friendly designs • Long-term durability Tente - tente.com.au

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MATERIALS HANDLING

Why sustainability matters in industrial cleaning

S

ustainability is no longer a secondary consideration in industrial cleaning - it is a key operational priority for facilities.

One of the biggest shifts within the industrial cleaning industry has been the move towards reducing water and chemical consumption without compromising cleaning performance.

Traditional cleaning methods often rely heavily on detergents and excessive water usage, creating unnecessary waste, increasing operational costs and impacting overall sustainability efforts.

Tennant Australia is helping facilities rethink that approach through advanced cleaning technologies such as their Chem-Dose system, which is designed to dispense the precise amount of cleaning chemical required based on the floor type, environment and specific application.

This level of accuracy helps minimise chemical waste, reduce operating costs and maintain consistent cleaning performance without the risk of overuse or underuse.

Complementing this is Tennant’s ec-H2O NanoClean technology, which

effectively turns water into a cleaning solution, reducing the need for harsh chemicals while still delivering powerful and consistent cleaning results.

to maintain consistently high cleaning standards while also protecting long-term flooring investments and reducing unnecessary wear.

Superior cleaning performance Designed to tackle demanding industrial environments, Tennant machines combine powerful scrubbing capabilities with industry-leading productivity.

Equipment such as the T12 and T16 industrial floor scrubbers are engineered to deliver exceptional cleaning performance across a wide range of applications, from heavy industrial facilities to large distribution centres.

With scrubbing down pressure ranging from over 25kg on compact walk-behind models through to an impressive 181kg on larger ride-on scrubbers, Tennant equipment is specifically designed to match the demands of each application.

Whether cleaning hard concrete floors, tiled surfaces, sealed flooring or laminate areas, machines can be fitted with tailored pads and squeegees to ensure optimal results.

This adaptability allows facilities

Autonomous cleaning technology Automation is rapidly transforming the industrial cleaning sector, with autonomous cleaning solutions becoming increasingly common across large facilities.

Leading this innovation is the new X6 ROVR, an advanced autonomous scrubber designed to support modern industrial and commercial environments.

Equipped with intelligent cameras, lidar sensors and advanced mapping technology, the X6 ROVR can navigate complex spaces autonomously while maintaining high cleaning standards across large facilities.

By automating repetitive cleaning tasks, facilities can redeploy staff towards higher-value operational duties while ensuring floors remain consistently clean.

The X6 ROVR from Tennant

Supporting sustainability goals Sustainability in industrial cleaning extends far beyond environmental outcomes alone.

Cleaner, safer and more efficiently maintained facilities contribute to improved workplace presentation, safer operating conditions and stronger long-term asset protection.

By investing in innovative cleaning technologies such as Tennant floor scrubbers, businesses are not only improving operational performance but also supporting broader sustainability and ESG objectives.

With a continued focus on innovation, adaptability and high-performance technology, Tennant is helping pave the way for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable future.

Tennant Company - tennantco.com

TENTE CUSTOM STAINLESS STEEL FABRICATION

CUSTOM INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH EQUIPMENT – FITTED WITH QUALITY TENTE CASTORS Stainless Steel Castors. Contact Tente for Custom Stainless Steel Equipment & Stainless Steel Castors

1300 836 831 | tente.com.au industryupdate.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 51

MATERIALS HANDLING

Embrace automation with Harcor custom crates

A

s supply chains become more automated and traceability requirements continue to grow, demand for custom crate solutions is growing.

Harcor can help.

They specialise in custom crates designed around the operational realities of modern warehousing, transport and distribution environments.

Their range is engineered to suit specific applications, with options including embedded RFID tracking, QR codes, tamper-evident security seals, branding and automation compatibility.

Rather than relying on standard off-the-shelf products, businesses are increasingly looking for crate systems tailored to their own logistics and handling requirements.

The shift is being driven by a combination of warehouse automation, growing security expectations and pressure to improve operational efficiency across the supply chain.

Harcor’s custom security sealing crate, designed for secure transport

and efficient storage, is a strong example of the kind of solution they can provide.

The crates stack when full and nest when empty, helping reduce warehouse footprint and freight space requirements.

Reinforced bases improve durability, while ergonomic handles and non-skid lids are designed to improve handling and stability during transport and storage.

Security is also becoming a larger focus for many operators, particularly in transport and distribution applications.

Harcor’s custom sealing crates can incorporate numbered tamper-evident security seals, providing a clear visual indication if a crate has been opened during transit.

RFID tracking and barcode integration are also available for businesses looking to improve traceability throughout the supply chain.

Lightweight, durable and easy to clean, the crates are commonly used in supermarkets, food processing facilities and distribution centres,

Harcor’s custom crates are ideal for embracing automation

where conveying performance and consistent handling characteristics are increasingly important.

The company is also seeing strong demand for crates designed

specifically for automated warehouse environments.

Harcor - harcor.com.au

Whatever you need to lift & move . . . there's an Altrac crane for that!

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Contact us for a free quote est. 1984 52 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

(03) 9796 5300 www.bomac.com.au/get-a-quote industryupdate.com.au

MATERIALS HANDLING

How Bonfiglioli helped a materials handling company strike gold in Africa

A

ustralian materials handling specialist Bulk Handling Technologies (BHT) has engineered a custom lime slaking system featuring a highly loaded ball mill drive, destined for a gold operation in Africa.

To support the mill’s performance requirements, BHT partnered with Bonfiglioli, selecting a heavy-duty gearbox solution capable of handling the extreme loads typical of lime slaking applications.

“Having worked with Bonfiglioli before, we understood that they could provide the necessary equipment quality and service we require when manufacturing such a custom piece of equipment,” said BHT Senior Mechanical Engineer, Sebastien Poulinet.

Since its establishment in 2012, BHT has specialised in the design and supply of customised materials handling systems for mining operations.

Its lime slaking systems - featuring tyre-driven ball mills - are designed to deliver reliable, safe and efficient operation in demanding mining environments.

At the core of the system is the ball mill, where quicklime is combined with water and ground to a fine slurry. This process ensures efficient lime reactivity, enabling stable pH control and improved downstream gold recovery.

According to Mark Beesley, WA State Sales Manager at Bonfiglioli Transmission Australia, gearbox selection is central to achieving reliable mill operation.

“The gearbox must transmit very high torque at low speed, while also withstanding the shock loads inherent in ball mill applications,” he explained.

Following consultation with BHT, Bonfiglioli recommended its HDO Series heavy-duty orthogonal shaft gearbox, designed specifically for

high-torque, continuous-duty applications in mining.

“We supplied two HDO units, each rated to 25,230 Nm of torque and 117 kW, with a 36:1 ratio to deliver the required mill speed,” said Beesley.

Beyond supply, Bonfiglioli provided detailed engineering support throughout the project.

The project reinforces the long-standing collaboration between the two companies, built on delivering reliable solutions for challenging mining environments.

Poulinet added that early-stage technical validation was critical, giving them confidence in the gearbox selection.

“Bonfiglioli provided engineering information during the quotation stages to confirm gearbox output shaft sizes, bearing life, mechanical and thermal safety factors,” he said.

Afterward they provided 3D models and drawings which were critical

Bonfiglioli are helping BHT get ahead in Africa

to ensuring correct fit of their gearbox within the mill envelope.

“We pride ourselves on supplying quality, robust equipment for challenging mine sites. Bonfiglioli are only one of a few industrial gearbox suppliers we trust to supply equipment matching our requirements.”

Bonfiglioli Australia bonfiglioli.com

The perfect partner for your conveyor systems Advance your operations with complete conveyor drive solutions from Bonfiglioli. Optimise performance, safety and material flow with our customisable robust technology. Find out how our solutions can drive your business forward.

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Bonfiglioli is your trusted partner.

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 53

MATERIALS HANDLING

Blickle castors are engineered for defence manufacturing

Blickle castors optimise aluminium work platforms for defence manufacturing Blickle Premium Wheels & Castors

for Every Industrial Application in Australia.

Blickle Australia Wheels and Castors PTY LTD Phone: 07 5584 5000 sales@blickle.com.au www.blickle.com.au www.ergomove.com

54 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

I

n an era where advanced manufacturing is under increasing pressure to deliver greater precision, flexibility and workforce safety, even the smallest component can have an outsized impact on productivity.

That reality became clear during a recent collaboration between Blickle Australia and Australian manufacturer No Bolt, a specialist in mobile aluminium work platforms used within the production and servicing of advanced defence systems across land, air, sea, cyber and space applications.

At first glance, castors may seem like a minor detail in such highly engineered platforms.

Yet in practice, they play a decisive role in operator safety, manoeuvrability, braking performance and day-to-day efficiency.

In demanding industrial environments, these factors are no longer secondary considerations - they are operational necessities.

In the practical use of No Bolt’s platforms, the company saw an opportunity to take an already proven concept to the next level.

The focus was on enhancing handling and control - from more intuitive brake operation to improved directional stability and smoother movement for operators.

These insights became the starting point for a targeted optimisation of the platform design, with the aim of further improving safety, stability and ease of movement in demanding industrial environments.

Drawing on Blickle’s application expertise, the most suitable

castor solution was selected from their standard range of more than 30,000 wheels and castors and precisely matched to the requirements of No Bolt’s mobile platforms.

The chosen high-quality swivel castors feature precision-machined swivel heads that reduce play in the system and contribute to noticeably improved platform stability.

The solution is complemented by robust, ergonomically optimised braking systems that can be operated quickly, safely and with minimal effort - a decisive advantage in day-to-day handling.

Another key component is the low-rolling-resistance tread, which reduces the effort required by staff when moving the platforms, while also improving control during manoeuvring and positioning.

The switch to Blickle castors led to immediately noticeable improvements in day-to-day use.

Staff benefit from easier handling and improved ergonomics: the reduced effort required to move the platforms eases physical strain and helps create a more comfortable and safer working environment.

Beyond the technical advantages, the solution also proved its worth in the long term.

Blickle’s high product quality, reliable delivery performance and four-year warranty provide additional investment security and contribute to stable, reliable processes over the full service life of the platform.

Blickle - blickle.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

MATERIALS HANDLING

Factory safety set for upgrade as new roll pusher hits Aussie market

M

oving heavy corrugated, paper and tissue rolls around a factory has always been one of the more difficult and potentially dangerous jobs in the printing and packaging industry.

Traditionally, businesses have relied on forklifts or manual labour to move these rolls. Both methods come with significant risks, from workplace injuries and operator fatigue through to forklift-related accidents and costly downtime.

Graph-Pak is proud to introduce a smarter, safer solution to the Australian and New Zealand market – the ReDrive Roll Pusher from Italian manufacturer Re Spa. As the exclusive distributor for Australia and New Zealand, GraphPak is bringing a new level of workplace safety, efficiency and operator comfort to printers, converters and packaging manufacturers.

The ReDrive has been specifically designed to eliminate the physical strain associated with moving heavy rolls.

Anyone who has worked in a factory knows that pushing large paper or board rolls can place enormous stress on the back, shoulders and joints of operators.

Over time, this can lead to injuries, lost productivity and increased workers’ compensation costs.

With the ReDrive, a task that once required significant physical effort becomes simple, safe and controlled.

Operators can move heavy rolls with confidence while dramatically reducing the risk of injury.

Minimise Forklift Traffic Forklifts remain one of the most common causes of workplace incidents within manufacturing facilities.

The compact and manoeuvrable ReDrive allows many roll-moving tasks to be completed without a forklift, reducing traffic in busy production areas and creating a safer environment for everyone on the factory floor.

Less forklift movement means: • Improved workplace safety • Reduced risk of collisions and near misses • Better accessibility in tight spaces • Increased operational flexibility The ReDrive is also clean, quiet and environmentally friendly.

Unlike traditional LPG, petrol or industryupdate.com.au

The ReDrive Roll Pusher by Re Spa is new to the Australian market

diesel-powered equipment, it operates using clean electric power.

There are no exhaust fumes, no fuel smells and no harmful emissions, helping create a healthier and more pleasant working environment for your team.

The quiet operation is another welcome benefit, particularly in facilities where noise reduction and operator comfort are priorities.

One of the most common comments Graph-Pak hear from operators is how easy the ReDrive is to use.

What was once a physically demanding task quickly becomes effortless. Operators gain confidence almost immediately and appreciate the control, manoeuvrability and safety the unit provides.

The result is greater productivity, happier staff and a safer workplace.

The ReDrive Roll Pusher delivers benefits that extend well beyond simply moving a roll from A to B. It helps businesses: • Reduce manual handling injuries • Lower forklift dependency • Improve factory workflow • Enhance operator wellbeing • Reduce emissions and improve air quality • Increase productivity For facilities looking to improve safety while creating a more efficient production environment, the ReDrive Roll Pusher represents one of the simplest and most effective upgrades available today.

To learn more or arrange a demonstration, contact Graph-Pak and see why manufacturers across Australia and New Zealand are making the switch to ReDrive.

It is ideal for moving heavy corrugated, paper or tissue rolls across the factory floor

Graph Pak - graph-pak.com.au Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 55

AUSTRALIAN MADE

AUSTRALIAN MADE

Australian Made Week a huge success around the country

Australian Made at the Victorian Chamber of Commerce

The Business Sydney Breakfast

ustralian Made Week 2026 reached new heights like never before, as the multi-channel campaign highlighted the importance of local manufacturers and the positive impact of purchasing Australian Made products.

This year’s campaign introduced a business events program that connected with organisations, businesses and communities across the country - platforming certified Australian Made businesses and industry professionals as they celebrated the week and discussed the Australian manufacturing landscape.

In the lead-up to Australian Made Week, Australian Made exhibited at and sponsored the Australian Manufacturing Week expo in Brisbane, which drew over 8,000 attendees. The Australian Made team connected with many local manufacturers, promoting the Australian Made logo as the most trusted and recognised country-of-origin symbol.

Australian Made Week 2026 kicked off at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in a sea of green and gold, with manufacturers, media and celebrities joining this year’s unique campaign launch.

close.

Held at Crimsafe’s manufacturing and R&D facility, the event drew over 200 attendees, who heard from Australian Made Chair Kate Carnell AO, Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper and Crimsafe CEO Jim Sturgess in a panel moderated by the talented Shelley Craft.

Over 80 people attended a special presentation hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Western Australia and Australian Made on Wednesday, which discussed the significance of Australian Made Week and the importance of local manufacturing, Attendees were treated to a panel of licensees featuring Wesbeam CEO Giles Everest, Funky Monkey Bars Co-Founder and Director Colin Burdle and Western Australia Speciality Alloys Production Superintendent Seach Hwee Goh. Australian Made exhibited at and sponsored the Family Business Conference, hosted by Industry Partner Family Business Association. Connecting with licensees and other family businesses, the Australian Made team presented to 500 attendees about the advantages of promoting locally made products as authentically Australian Made.

The ‘Australian Made, Victorian Led: Spotlight on Manufacturing’ event was hosted by the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Thursday, with 300 attendees gathering in Melbourne to celebrate all things Australian Made.

Guests heard from Hon. Colin Brooks and a panel of licensees, including Braille Tactile Signs Aust CEO and Founder Claudia Gatt, Bodd CEO and Co-Founder David McLaughlin and Sutton Tools Managing Director Peter Sutton.

A

Andy Lee was joined by previous Ambassadors Ariarne Titmus and Adam Liaw as they kicked off the week’s celebrations.

Guests heard from Senator the Hon Tim Ayers and Abel Sports General Manager John Cann speak about the manufacturing supply

Australian Made Chair Kate Carnell AO, Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper and Crimsafe CEO Jim Sturgess

chain that went into creating the MCG’s very own goalposts and flag posts.

Events all around Australia Australian Made partnered with Business Chamber Queensland (BCQ) for a celebratory event with Australian Made licensee Crimsafe Security Systems on Tuesday.

Commemorating 40 years of the Australian Made logo and 30 years of Crimsafe, guests were treated to a tour behind the factory doors to see local Australian manufacturing up

Tasmania celebrated Australian Made Week 56 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Cato Brand Partners Chairman Dr Ken Cato AO spoke about designing the iconic green and gold kangaroo logo in a fireside chat with Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro, and Andy Lee concluded his gig as the Australian Made Week Ambassador, gifting a signed Australian Made tracksuit from this year’s TV commercial to one lucky guest!

Wesbeam CEO Giles Everest, Funky Monkey Bars Co-Founder and Director Colin Burdle and Western Australia Speciality Alloys Production Superintendent Seach Hwee Goh

Over 100 Sydneysiders attended a special breakfast event with Business Sydney on Friday to wrap up Australian Made Week. Key speakers of the event included The Hon Dr Andrew Charlton MP, Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou and Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) President Lyall Gorman.

Dr Ken Cato AO was hosted in another fireside chat about the history of the Australian Made brand, and the event concluded with a panel of Australian Made licensees featuring Mongrel Boots Managing Director Bill Cloros, Freshwater Farm Brand Director Jemma Somervail and BAB Aluminium Founder and CEO Brian Blowes.

Australian Made australianmade.com.au industryupdate.com.au

AUSTRALIAN MADE

Capral brings Australian Made aluminium closer to Geelong businesses

C

apral Aluminium has strengthened its connection to Geelong, announcing the opening of a new Aluminium Trade Centre servicing Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast and surrounding regional Victoria.

The site was officially opened on Tuesday June 2nd by Tina Perfrement and Jennifer Thomas from the City of Greater Geelong alongside Capral Aluminium CEO Tony Dragicevich, marking an important milestone in Capral’s ongoing investment in regional Victoria and support for local industry.

The new Capral Aluminium Trade Centre in Geelong will provide local businesses, fabricators, tradespeople and manufacturers with improved access to a wide range of aluminium extrusions, sheet, plate and rolled products backed by expert local support and the strength of Capral’s national supply network.

The opening represents another important milestone during Capral’s 90th year of Australian

manufacturing and reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to supporting Australian industry through local capability, warehousing and distribution.

Capral operates six extrusion presses nationally and maintains one of Australia’s largest aluminium manufacturing and distribution footprints, supplying industries including construction, transport, marine, defence, renewable energy and general fabrication.

For Geelong, the announcement also carries historical significance.

Capral’s history in the region dates back to the mid-1990s, when Alcan acquired the Unalex aluminium operation in approximately 1996.

At the time, the site housed two extrusion presses, a 6-inch and an 8-inch press, along with stretching and limited value-added capability focused on expanded security grille products.

While the operation was relatively short-lived and later consolidated into broader Victorian manufacturing operations, it formed an important chapter in the company’s

manufacturing history and contributed valuable lessons that helped shape future manufacturing strategy.

Now, almost 30 years later, Capral is returning to Geelong with a renewed focus on servicing one of Victoria’s fastest-growing industrial and construction regions.

Peter Darvell, Capral Aluminium General Manager Southern Region, said the new Geelong location would deliver significant benefits for local customers by combining local accessibility with the backing of a national manufacturing business.

“Geelong is an incredibly important and growing region for Victorian manufacturing, construction and trade, and we are very excited to establish a stronger local presence here,” Darvell said.

“Our new Aluminium Trade Centre gives local customers access to a broad range of aluminium extrusions, sheet and plate products supported by local service, technical expertise and the reliability of Capral’s national network.”

The Geelong expansion comes

The team at Capral

during a landmark year for Capral as the company celebrates 90 years of Australian manufacturing.

Throughout 2026, Capral has been highlighting its long-standing role in supporting Australian industry, local jobs and sovereign manufacturing capability through a series of national initiatives and celebrations.

As an Australian Made licensee and Australia’s largest extruder and distributor of aluminium products, Capral says the Geelong investment reflects its continued confidence in Australian manufacturing and the future growth potential of regional Victoria.

Capral - capral.com.au

YOU MAKE IT LOCAL. THE LOGO MAKES IT

Trusted

APPLY TODAY TO GET YOUR PRODUCTS CERTIFIED AUSTRALIAN MADE. This initiative is supported by the Australian Government.

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 57

AUSTRALIAN MADE

Making the most of every cubic centimetre in defence logistics

B

AC Systems is an Australian manufacturer of industrial workshop and storage equipment, using Australian steel in its Australian factory to produce storage solutions now used on all seven continents.

The different branches of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) regularly turn to BAC Systems for storage solutions, typically seeking one of two outcomes: high-density storage or secure display storage.

BAC is Australia’s leading manufacturer of high-density drawer storage for Defence. For almost 50 years, the ADF has used BAC’s award-winning Drawer Cabinets with Internal Partitions to store spares, tools and consumables while maximising available space.

This is particularly important during deployments, where storage capacity is dictated by volume and every cubic centimetre counts.

BAC offers Defence two primary deployable solutions: BAC Drawer Storage Modules fitted into Defence Intermodal Storage Units (ISUs) and

BAC Flyaway Kit Drawer Storage systems.

Whether installed within a container or secured to the deck of a Canberraclass vessel, these systems provide genuine high-density storage without compromising access to contents.

Items are stored in individually labelled locations that follow logical numbering patterns, making identification and retrieval simple. BAC drawers are fitted with single-drawer locks that also act as anti-cascading devices and shock-resistant mechanisms, ensuring drawers remain securely closed until required.

Over the years, Defence has also sought specialised storage solutions from BAC where visibility is more important than storage density.

These systems typically play a support role in Q Stores and workshops, helping prepare equipment for deployment rather than being deployed themselves.

One of the most popular examples is the BAC Flightline Toolboard, originally designed and

manufactured for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and now widely used across multiple industries.

The system offers up to 7.4 m² of tool rack panel space, while clear industrial roller doors allow tool audits and visual inspections to take place even when the unit is locked.

Another increasingly popular solution is BAC’s Integrated Secure-Visibility Storage (ISV) system. Combining modular longspan shelving with an integrated clear roller door, the ISV delivers both high security and immediate visual access to stored equipment.

Particularly suited to packs, bundles, support equipment cases, trunks and other midsized inventories requiring close monitoring, the ISV enables rapid identification and quick access when required.

All of these Defence solutions are based on products available to the broader market. BAC offers secure

BAC make everything in Australia

display storage solutions across a wide range of industries, supporting the storage of everything from CNC machine tooling to classroom tool sets.

BAC Systems - bacsystems.com.au

Ora et Labora

BAC Systems Pty Limited Phone: (02) 9832 2777 58 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Order the latest BAC Catalogue online now!

www.bacsystems.com.au

Inspired by Real Intelligence industryupdate.com.au

AUSTRALIAN MADE

Restoring control in steel fabrication - no matter your setup

I

n steel fabrication, surface treatment has traditionally been approached as two separate tasks: blasting in one area, painting in another.

For many workshops, especially older or space-constrained operations, this isn’t by design - it’s simply how facilities have evolved.

However, this separation often introduces inefficiencies, quality risks and lost productivity.

The good news? You don’t need a perfect, purpose-built facility to start regaining control.

When blasting and painting operate independently, consistency becomes hard to maintain.

Dust escapes its intended zones, airflow behaves unpredictably and components are repeatedly handled, moved and exposed between stages.

In large facilities, these issues scale quickly. In smaller workshops, they can feel unavoidable.

Either way, the result is the same: disruption, rework and reduced efficiency.

These challenges are rarely due to

poor workmanship; they are symptoms of disconnected systems.

Integration isn’t just for new builds. A complete blast and paint system is often associated with large installations but integration is less about size and more about coordination.

Even in existing facilities, improvements can be achieved by aligning airflow, dust extraction, containment and material flow.

This may include refining airflow, improving dust extraction, streamlining part movement or introducing defined workflow paths. These changes do not require a full rebuild, but they can significantly improve control.

As processes become more connected, the benefits are immediate.

Air quality improves as dust and fumes are captured at the source, creating safer conditions and supporting compliance.

Materials handling also becomes more efficient.

Instead of stop-start movement, components flow more smoothly

Protoblast are proudly Australian Made

between stages, reducing labour, saving time and minimising damage risk.

Quality gains that don’t depend on facility size. Consistency in finish quality is one of the biggest advantages of integration.

Steel leaving the blast stage must remain clean before coating. In fragmented setups, this is often where contamination occurs.

Improving this transition leads to stronger coating adhesion, more consistent finishes, reduced rework and longer-lasting results.

These gains come from process control, not facility size. A complete system does not always mean a complete rebuild. It is about improving how processes work together.

Protoblast - protoblast.com.au

Painting Booths Blast chamber

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protoblast.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 59

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

ECI showcases digital transformation tools at AMW

Graham Younger (centre) and Andrew Mamonitis (right) at AMW

A

ustralian Manufacturing Week (AMW) is a celebration of our domestic industry - but it brings in people from around the world, too.

When our sector gathers, as they did in Brisbane in May, it presents an opportunity for international companies to focus on their Aussie operations, and to meet the needs of customers in this country.

That was the goal for ECI Software Solutions.

They specialise in industry-specific ERP software, designed to assist SME manufacturers on their digital transformation journey, as well as providing capability to integrate AI into their supply chains and workflows.

They had a prominent stand at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, with Chief Revenue Officer Graham Younger flying in from the United States to get the lay of the land.

He was accompanied by Andrew Mamonitis, Vice President Manufacturing APAC at ECI, who was helping to showcase what the company can offer to domestic customers.

Industry Update sat down with both to understand their offering and why events like AMW were so important to global businesses such as ECI.

“The business problems are fundamentally the same,” said Younger.

“When you look across the many thousands of customers we work with, you see similar challenges emerge again and again.

“ECI has around 25,000 customers globally - and in Australia, people often see American companies expanding into this market, but M1 actually originated in Australia.

It was named after the motorway outside Melbourne.

“Today, one in five small-to-medium manufacturers in the United States use M1. It’s a great example of Australian-developed software being exported successfully into a major international market.”

Mamonitis heads up Aussie operations, and understands local conditions better than anyone.

“Our typical customer is a smallto-medium-sized manufacturer,” he explained.

“Often they have a relatively small team and many of their processes have developed organically over time.

“One of the most common challenges we see is that a lot of the business knowledge exists in people’s heads.

“There might be someone who has been with the company for 20 years and understands everything, but very little of that knowledge has

60 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

been formally documented.

“Stock management is another common issue. Many businesses are still relying on manual processes, paper-based systems or spreadsheets.

“Then there are costs - customers don’t want to discover cost overruns after a job is completed.

“They want visibility while the work is happening so they can identify problems and take action before those issues affect profitability.

What we provide is visibility across the entire operation.”

Software is often seen as a third or fourth level priority, something that SME leaders know they can improve.

In manufacturing, where budgets are always tight, it can end up on the back burner with more pressing issues at hand.

Younger, however, emphasised how it can unlock other parts of the business - if the correct partner is found.

“Nobody wakes up in the morning wanting to buy more software - what they want is a business partner who can help solve business problems,” he said.

“We’re focused on customer success across manufacturing, but we’re also very conscious of regional differences. We invest in understanding the specific needs and characteristics of each market we

operate in, including Australia and New Zealand.

“Across the wider ECI business, we support thousands of manufacturers and job shops, which gives us a unique perspective on what works, what doesn’t and where the industry is heading.

“That allows us to continue innovating and bringing new capabilities to customers.”

AI is a huge buzzword, but while all manufacturers know that they need to understand it, it can often be difficult to discern how they should embrace the new technology.

ECI’s software solutions bridge that gap, enabling manufacturers to take advantage of opportunities by meeting them where they are.

“One of the biggest conversations in manufacturing today is around AI and emerging technologies,” said Younger.

“For many small and medium-sized businesses, it’s difficult to invest in that level of research and development on their own.

“They don’t necessarily have the resources, expertise or appetite for that level of risk. Our role is to do that work on their behalf.”

ECI Software Solutions ecisolutions.com

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Victoria strengthens defence manufacturing with new facility

V

ictoria is celebrating a major manufacturing win after a new defence facility in Melbourne opened, bringing almost 50 new jobs to the region.

Corvus Technology Solutions cut the ribbon on their new site in Bayswater North, in the city’s southeastern manufacturing corridor, adding to the state’s contribution to national sovereign defence and reinforcing Victoria’s defence manufacturing supply chains.

49 skilled workers will be employed at the site, which is set to focus on in-arm suspension units for armoured vehicles, particularly for the Australian Army’s AS21 Redback, which are themselves manufactured in Victoria at South Korean defence giant Hanwha’s facility in Avalon.

“This facility represents a significant step forward for Corvus and for Victoria’s defence manufacturing capability,” said Nick Williams, CEO of Corvus Technology Solutions.

“What we are celebrating today is not only a new site, but

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the establishment of real defence capability in Victoria – built through strong collaboration with our South Korean partners, supported by local expertise, and focused on delivering advanced defence technology. It also reflects our ambition to contribute to larger defence programs by bringing together local manufacturing, trusted international partnerships and laser focus on sovereign capability.”

The Victorian Government assisted Corvus via its Supply Chain Investment and Supply Chain Uplift Programs, which are designed to support Hanwha’s local partners in the state.

“This is a strong vote of confidence in Victorian supply chain businesses and their ability to deliver for major Australian Army defence projects, while creating highly skilled jobs across the state,” said Victorian Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Defence Industry, Skills and TAFE Colin Brooks.

Cutting the ribbon on Corvus’ new facility in Bayswater North

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 61

MACHINERY & TOOLS

Bowhill Engineering expands advanced machining capability with Okuma investment

S

econd generation family business Bowhill Engineering began life in the 1970s, when Brendon Hawkes started as a diesel mechanic with Bowhill Motors.

In the early 1990s, his sons, Simon and Jeremy, preferred to build rather than repair and evolved the business into Bowhill Engineering.

Initially based on the family farm, the company relocated to the present site in 1996 in the tiny town of Bowhill, SA, with a population of less than 300.

In 2002, Simon was killed in a car accident, and Jeremy’s wife Jodie Hawkes joined her husband to do whatever was necessary to keep the business going - everything administration, finance, IT, marketing, compliance and strategy.

Today, she is Chief Executive Officer, overseeing a staff of more than 70 personnel plus some 20 sub-contractors, all the while maintaining strong links with the community through local volunteer groups - and even acting as the Bowhill post office.

In business, they are specialists in heavy and complex structural steel fabrication and surface treatment, and a leader in one-off bespoke structures, concentrating primarily in infrastructure but also servicing the marine, defence and mining industries.

Bowhill maintains a strong policy of apprenticeship training.

“We spend a lot of time visiting schools, having group tours through the site, hosting work experience

and intern students,” said Hawkes.

“This has resulted in over 56 apprentices and trainees taking part on our award-winning training academy over the years.

“Drawing on local talent, we currently have 15 apprentices and one trainee at various stages and we look to introduce 4-5 first year students each year to this program.

“Our previous apprentices and trainees have gone on to become Team Leaders, Supervisors, Production Managers, Welding Supervisors, WHSE Coordinators, Project Administration and Accounts support.”

With an intensive look to the future and following detailed research, Bowhill Engineering has recently commissioned a large Okuma CNC Double Column Machining Centre MCR-A5CII 30 x 65 with OSP-P500 Control.

“Okuma was consistently recommended to us and we took time to speak to others who have this equipment,” said Jeremy Hawkes.

“This reconfirmed what we were hearing about the company’s support, replacement parts to maintain productivity and technical advice from passionate engineers.

“Word of mouth referrals by people you trust is the best advice you can get and we intend to take full advantage of the on-going training from Okuma.

“The new Okuma Double Column Machining Centre enables us to undertake large complex CNC work that we would have had to outsource making it difficult to remain competitive.

“The all-inclusive approach to the investment package meant there were no surprises with the contract and commissioning.

“Okuma engineers were also at pains to ensure that the selection of the machining centre was the correct choice and fit for us given our forward projections and strategies.

“The first CNC contract for the company includes 648 x 10 tonne segments for the Torrens to Darlington Cross Tunnel Passage opening with parts 4m long 2.4m wide and Jodie and Jeremy Hawkes of Bowhill Engineering 1m high with facings, grooves,

62 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

Bowhill’s new Okuma Double Column Machining Centre

tapered holes, threaded holes and radial milling with the indexing head so there is a lot going on with these components.”

The new Double Column Machining Centre is expected to unlock many exciting opportunities given the solid reputation and experience the company has established in heavy fabrication and large component machining and it will be an important element going forward with the opening up of expanded market potential.

There is now an air of excitement within the engineering staff who see opportunities to develop new skills and gain hands-on experience with the latest manufacturing technology with advanced tooling and programming capabilities the new machine incorporates.

Personnel are witnessing a deeper understanding of modern fabrication methods plus an improvement in overall efficiency and accuracy.

Most of Bowhill Engineering’s work is built to specific supplied designs but in recent years there have been plenty of opportunities to optimise designs for manufacturing buildability.

For structural integrity and accuracy, many adjustments can be made to the designs unlocking efficiencies to which the advanced equipment can contribute.

This company is fully committed to its Integrated Business Management systems via a sophisticated document management system that is easily accessible to all stakeholders.

Amongst its numerous certified compliance certification is ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management, ISO45001:2018 Safety Management; ISO14001:2015 Environment; SCA Steel Compliance-Construction 3: EPA Abrasive Blasting and Surface Coating.

“What we value most is the opportunity to work collaboratively with the client and their designers to optimise designs for durability,” said Jeremy.

“The specific capabilities and nuances of the tooling and the machine itself often influence practical and efficient design outcomes.

“The engineering discussions and input also allows our staff to contribute to effective solutions and to gain valuable technical knowledge that would otherwise remain outside the fabricator’s scope.

“It is a rare and highly beneficial opportunity for professional growth and collaboration – together we thrive.”

OKUMA - okumaaustralia.com.au

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MACHINERY & TOOLS

Okuma launches MB-100V for large-part machining

The new MB-100V from Okuma

O

kuma has expanded its vertical machining centre lineup with the launch of the MB-100V, a large-format machine designed to improve productivity, machining accuracy and ease of operation in the production of large precision components.

As the largest model in the company’s MB-V Series, the MB-100V features a maximum table size of 3,000 mm × 1,000 mm and is aimed at industries requiring high-accuracy machining of large workpieces, including semiconductor manufacturing equipment, construction and agricultural machinery, industrial equipment and die and mould applications.

Vertical Machining Center

The machine combines Okuma’s double-column machining centre expertise with the thermal stability and intelligent machining technologies developed through the MB-V Series.

The MB-100V has been designed to address several ongoing manufacturing challenges, including labour shortages, workforce mobility and the growing need to maintain machining accuracy regardless of operator experience levels.

One of the machine’s major focuses is reducing production downtime during long machining runs. The MB-100V incorporates Okuma’s Crossrail Shower Cleaning system, which flushes chips away

from fixtures, workpieces and the machine interior to improve uptime and reduce manual cleaning requirements.

The machine also includes AI-based machine status monitoring designed to help detect potential issues before unexpected breakdowns occur.

Thermal stability is another major feature. The MB-100V maintains thermal deformation within a maximum of 7μm, even under ambient temperature fluctuations of up to 8°C. Okuma’s Accuracy Stability Diagnostic Function and 3D Calibration system also allow accuracy deterioration caused by installation-level changes to be detected

and corrected semi-automatically.

To improve workability during large-part machining, the machine includes a rear-side service door and sub-operation panel as standard, allowing operators to carry out setup work more safely and efficiently.

Despite its large machining area, the MB-100V has been designed with a compact footprint. Okuma said the double-column structure expands the machining area by 16 per cent while reducing installation space requirements by 32 per cent compared with the previous model.

OKUMA - okumaaustralia.com.au

HANDLE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES WITH OKUMA’S NEW MB-100V The MB-100V is built for large workpieces, tough materials, and ultimate accuracy, handling parts up to 3m x 1m x 600mm and 6,000kg.

The MB-100V is a powerful, high-precision vertical machining center built with a double-column structure and is able to machine large workpieces with ease. Integrating Okuma’s strengths in double column machining centres with the proven technologies of the MB-V series.

Ph: 1300 1 OKUMA www.okumaaustralia.com.au industryupdate.com.au

Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 63

COMPRESSORS

Nitrogen: The hidden engine driving manufacturing efficiency

N

itrogen plays a critical role across a wide range of manufacturing applications.

Often referred to as the fifth utility - alongside water, electricity, gas and compressed air - it underpins processes from metal cutting and welding to electronics production and heat treatment.

Traditionally, manufacturers have relied on cylinders, gas racks or bulk liquid nitrogen tanks.

While effective, these supply methods come with ongoing transport costs, administrative burden and handling risks.

As the industry sharpens its focus on efficiency, sustainability and operational control, on-site nitrogen generation is rapidly emerging as the smarter alternative.

Why manufacturers are switching to On-Site generation Generating nitrogen on-site offers a step change in operational performance and cost control: • Lower operating costs by eliminating recurring gas supply expenses • No long-term contracts, delivering predictable and stable costs • Reduced gas losses, improving overall production efficiency • Less administration, with no refills or delivery logistics • Improved safety, avoiding large volumes of stored gas • Smaller environmental footprint by removing transport and storage requirements Choosing the right technology: PSA vs Membrane Two primary technologies are used to generate nitrogen from compressed air. The right choice depends on your required purity, flow demand and operating conditions.

Pressure Swing Absorption (PSA) is best suited for high-purity applications. They can achieve up to 99.999% purity, have higher efficiency at high purity levels and are Ideal for demanding processes such as electronics or laser cutting Membrane technology is simple, robust and low-maintenance. It delivers up to 99.5% purity and has a lower system complexity and very low service requirements.

It also performs well in higher temperature environments and boasts a sast start-up and stable operation without extra storage.

Nitrogen is crucial to many processes across manufacturing

PSA Advantages • Ultra-high nitrogen purity • Strong efficiency at high specifications • Suitable for precision manufacturing Membrane Advantages • Simpler system design • Lower maintenance requirements • Faster response and easier operation Nitrogen’s versatility makes it essential across modern production environments, such as: • Heat treatment and controlled atmospheres • Laser cutting for clean, oxide-free finishes • Welding and brazing to prevent oxidation • Electronics and semiconductor production • Injection moulding and extrusion • Battery manufacturing and recycling • Component assembly and testing Atlas Copco nitrogen generators are engineered for seamless

64 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

integration with existing compressed air systems, making installation straightforward.

Whether operations require continuous on-demand supply or storage to handle peak demand, solutions can be tailored and scaled as needed.

Increasingly, manufacturers are treating nitrogen as a standard utility rather than a delivered consumable.

By generating Atlas Copco nitrogen on-site, businesses gain greater control, improve reliability and unlock meaningful cost savings - all while maintaining consistent product quality.

Real-world application: Brewing efficiency powered by nitrogen A clear example of nitrogen’s impact can be seen at Whitewater Brewery in the UK, where on-site generation has transformed operations.

Like many manufacturers, the brewery previously relied on

delivered gases. By switching to an Atlas Copco on-site nitrogen generation system, they gained a reliable, independent supply while reducing operating costs and reliance on carbon dioxide deliveries.

Nitrogen now supports multiple stages of production, including: • Flushing tanks and pipework to prevent contamination • Removing oxygen and CO₂ to protect product quality • Transferring product between vessels • Supporting bottling, kegging and canning processes The result is greater operational efficiency, improved process control, and increased productivity, while eliminating the logistical burden of delivered gas supply.

This example highlights how nitrogen is no longer just a utility but a strategic asset across modern manufacturing.

Atlas Copco - atlas-copco.com

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Cut your nitrogen costs without compromising quality.

At Atlas Copco, we combine deep expertise with smart technology to deliver nitrogen solutions tailored to your exact needs.

By optimising nitrogen purity and selecting the right generation technology and system configuration, we help you reduce operating costs while ensuring consistent, reliable product quality—every time.

Atlas Copco Compressors Australia compressorsau@au.atlascopco.com 1800 023 469 Level up your experience at atlascopco.com

Smarter nitrogen starts here.

COMPRESSORS

Chicago Pneumatic launches new variable speed compressor range

C

hicago Pneumatic continues its long-standing commitment to performance and reliability with the launch of the new CPMV TMDD variable speed compressor range.

Designed for modern industrial environments, the series combines energy-efficient operation, intelligent control and robust engineering to help businesses reduce operating costs while maintaining reliable compressed air performance.

Covering power ratings from 7.5 to 22 kW, the new CPMV TMDD range is engineered around permanent magnet motor technology and variable speed drive (VSD) control.

This allows the compressor to precisely match air output to demand, delivering energy savings while maintaining stable pressure across varying operating conditions.

At the core of the design is an oil‑cooled permanent magnet motor paired with a direct‑drive screw element, helping reduce mechanical losses, operating noise and service requirements while lowering lifetime operating costs.

Every aspect of the CPMV TMDD series has been optimised with usability and longevity in mind.

An independent air inlet design helps minimise temperature rise and reduce operating noise, while the integrated cooling and housing layout simplifies internal piping and improves both efficiency and service access.

Steel pipe connections further assist in reducing leakage risk and supporting long-term system integrity.

Intelligent controller technology provides real‑time monitoring, adaptive pressure management and the ability to network multiple compressors for coordinated operation.

This smart system approach supports improved system efficiency compared with previous generation compressor designs.

Designed for installation near the point of use, the CPMV TMDD compressors are ideal for space-conscious environments. Their compact footprint and low noise levels make them a natural fit for workshops and production floors alike.

Key features include: • Integrated tank and dryer options to save space • Forklift slots for easy handling and installation • Reduced piping and installation complexity • Lower installation and operational costs With configurations available for multiple voltage and pressure requirements, the CPMV TMDD series is suited for a wide range of industrial applications.

From manufacturing and automotive workshops to infrastructure projects, the new range reflects Chicago Pneumatic’s continued focus on practical and durable compressed air solutions designed to support long-term operational performance.

Backed by more than 125 years of engineering heritage, the CPMV TMDD series demonstrates how thoughtful engineering and advanced

Meet the new CPMV TMDD variable speed compressor range from Chicago Pneumatic

compressor technology can work together to help businesses reduce energy consumption, enhance reliability and support long-term operational performance.

Chicago Pneumatic - cp.com

Performance you can trust

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www.cpcompressors.com.au 1300 555 284

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UNIVERSITIES & RESEARCH

The low-cost digital boost helping Australian manufacturers lift productivity Prepared by UNSW Canberra, DMTC and IfM/Cambridge University UK

Michael Stevens, Senior Research Fellow, School of Engineering and Technology, UNSW Canberra with Jeffrey Pugh, Director/Business Manager of Dusty Fabrications

F

or many Australian small and medium-sized manufacturers, “going digital” can feel like an all-or-nothing decision: costly software, scarce skills and disruption to production.

Digital Manufacturing on a Shoestring offers a different path. It starts with what is already within reach - low-cost sensors, simple dashboards and practical support so businesses can learn, implement and scale at their own pace.

Developed by the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Manufacturing, the Shoestring concept is a structured pathway to faster digital transformation using “starter solutions”: simple applications that automate data collection and display it in shop-floor-friendly formats.

These solutions are designed so manufacturers can adopt them quickly and see early benefits.

The benefits are immediate and practical: streamlining production, reducing inefficiencies and manual errors, capturing real-time operational data for better decisions, increasing equipment use, reducing downtime and improving visibility of energy use and waste.

Better access to data such as machine utilisation gives manufacturers clearer insight into performance, stronger foundations for productivity improvements and more competitive products for domestic and global supply chains.

Just as importantly, the program is built around hands-on learning, upskilling operators and supervisors so digital capability stays in the business and reliance on external consultants reduces over time.

Evidence from other regions suggests the model works well for industryupdate.com.au

smaller factories. In the UK, an impact study of ten companies that deployed Shoestring starter solutions found 100% reported greater confidence in digital skills and 90% reported improved productivity. PIL Membranes reported annual energy savings of 160 MWh and cost savings of £40,000 after using a Shoestring power monitoring kit to identify and address avoidable waste.

Closer to home, Western Australia’s “Digital manufacturing on a Shoestring” program, supported by the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, has engaged more than 100 food and beverage businesses and deployed 48 solutions across 35 businesses as of July 2025.

UNSW Canberra has reported strong early engagement through awareness workshops, with job/ location tracking emerging as a leading priority and multiple solutions moving into development.

UNSW Canberra worked with Queanbeyan’s Dusty Fabrications to deploy a low-cost power monitoring solution that helped the business better understand energy use and identify ways to reduce bills.

Meanwhile, DMTC’s Smart Enough Factory Digital Uplift Program - aligned with Shoestring - has supported more than 100 Australian SMEs in defence and adjacent sectors to adopt Industry 4.0 approaches, with reported outcomes including reduced downtime, efficiency gains, energy savings and new hires.

Shoestring was developed in response to a common problem: many smaller manufacturers were being sold Industry 4.0 as a complex, high-cost leap when their needs were more immediate and practical.

The answer was to reframe digitalisation as a series of small, affordable steps using off-the-shelf components such as low-cost microcomputers and sensors, supported by training and a growing catalogue of reusable solution “building blocks”. Over time, this has evolved into a global community of educators, developers and practitioners sharing methods, tools and proven deployment models.

Shoestring has supported programs across the UK and internationally. In New Zealand, the University of Auckland’s “Digital Manufacturing Light” programme - built on the Cambridge Shoestring framework - has secured a threeyear government funding commitment from 1 April 2026 to support at least 180 manufacturing businesses across Auckland and parts of Waikato, Northland and the Bay of Plenty.Shoestring aims to lower the barriers: cost, complexity and uncertainty to help businesses prove value early, strengthen skills on the

Fast facts • What it is: A step-by-step program helping SMEs adopt low-cost digital tools with minimal disruption.

• How it starts: “Starter solutions” with limited scope (often one machine/location) and default settings.

• Examples of solutions: Job/location tracking, downtime monitoring, scrap monitoring, temperature/ air quality monitoring and power monitoring.

• Typical starting point: Small, low-risk deployments - designed to be implemented quickly and then expanded. shop floor and create a scalable pathway to deeper digitalisation.

University of Technology Sydney uts.edu.au

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 67

WOMEN IN MANUFACTURING

Industry leaders call for more women in trades at ARBS

I

t is often said that you cannot be what you cannot see. For women in trades, that has been a historical problem, with decades of underrepresentation and thus a lack of role models for girls looking to make a career in the sector.

It’s why ARBS, the biggest trade show in the HVAC and building services sector, chose to make their Women Igniting Change event such an integral part of their 2026 programme - and why they chose it as the place to launch their 30x30 Pledge.

The 30×30 initiative is a public call to increase female participation in trades and technical roles to 30% by 2030 - a massive growth on the current 3% rate.

ARBS curated a panel for the event that spoke to the solution, rather than the problem.

The Governor-General, Sam Mostyn, kicked off with a welcome message, followed by Browyn King AO, who gave the keynote, detailing her campaign against tobacco and for clean air that took her from a Melbourne radiology department to the United Nations General Assembly.

They were followed by Pam Rogers, Group General Manager of SP&R Group, who spoke on her journey from being the only woman on the tools to a leadership position in the industry, and Debbie Lee, on her crusade in women’s Australian football, from having no team to play for to the AFL Hall of Fame.

Rogers and Lee spoke with Industry Update after the event to detail how women could advance themselves and take opportunities in male-dominated spaces.

“Doors don’t just open left, right and centre for you,” said Rogers.

“Women often have this bias where, if a role opens up internally

AFL Hall of Fame member Debbie Lee addressed the event

or externally, we feel like we need to meet 100% of the job description before we can apply.

We sit and wait until we’re perfect for the job, and that’s never going to happen.

“I encourage anyone to put themselves forward. If a job opens and you can do 50% of it, apply. It might be a no, but at least you know what the gap is and what you need to do next.

“Don’t wait. If you wait until you’re perfect, you’ll probably get to 40 and never have taken the leap.

For me, it’s really important to keep putting yourself forward. That’s massive.”

Lee concurred, giving her impression as someone who was often the only woman in a room full of men,

Pam Rogers has gone from the tools to the boardroom 68 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

trying to convince them to see things from her perspective.

“It starts with meeting people where they’re at,” she said.

“My approach has always been that most people are well-intentioned, but you have to take them on a journey.

“Their toolbox might not include an understanding of what women need, because men and women are different.

“Men often need to perform to belong, while women need to belong to perform. When you understand that, it changes how you approach the issue.

“If you’re an organisation with a traditionally male workforce, you need to think about how you visibly demonstrate that women are welcome and how you open the door for them to walk through it.

“Part of that is simply asking women what they need. Go and ask them what one or two things would make a difference in attracting women into trades and keeping them there.

“One of the biggest advantages women have is that they bring a perspective organisations are actively looking for.

“There are plenty of businesses that want to improve female participation and leadership, so women should recognise that they have currency and use it.”

“I had to navigate exactly this sort of environment myself. When I was helping grow women’s football, men were the decision-makers.

There were very few women playing the game, there were no women in coaching pathways and there were very few women in the media.

“The key lesson is that you can’t do it on your own. It wasn’t just me.

It was about identifying good people who could help deliver that message.

“You need to identify authentic people - particularly men in influential positions - who can help shift perceptions and move things forward.”

Rogers emphasised this message as well.

“If I hadn’t had male mentors, I wouldn’t have made it,” she stated.

“I absolutely value the men I’ve worked with. I think, often, they just don’t know how to communicate in those situations.

“They don’t necessarily know what to do when they have a female employee, particularly in a male-dominated environment.

“My advice to leaders and managers is simple: ask questions. We’re not scary. The funny thing is, we often think men are scary too. If we actually communicate, you find it’s not that difficult.”

ARBS - arbs.com.au industryupdate.com.au

ELECTRONICS

LAPP helps Hardi improve equipment reliability and serviceability

A

gricultural spraying equipment specialist Hardi is using robust, traceable and fit-for-purpose cable harnessing solutions from Lapp Australia to reduce downtime, improve reliability and extend equipment longevity.

Hardi’s spraying equipment ranges from compact 1.5 litre hand sprayers through to 10,000 litre trailer sprayers and 54 metre booms.

A Danish company by origin, the Australian subsidiary is the largest outside of its headquarters, and is based on a 10 hectare site in Adelaide, where it manufactures the majority of equipment in-house.

“Australian conditions are often harsher than those typical in Europe, so our gear needs to be manufactured to withstand the elements,” said Hardi Australia Chief Commercial Officer, Zac Harnett.

“Having a local manufacturing facility allows us to tailor our equipment to Australian conditions.”

The demanding operating environment of agricultural spraying equipment places significant stress on electrical systems, and quality

cable assemblies can minimise maintenance requirements and costly downtime.

“We chose Lapp’s harnessing solutions because their cables and components ticked all our boxes, including chemical resistance, UV resistance, overmoulding of connectors, energy chain rated cables capable of withstanding bending motions on booms, and an overall level of robust quality that we were seeking,” said Harnett.

Lapp’s Harnessing Solutions Division provides companies like Hardi with pre-assembled, standards-compliant cable assemblies that are fully traceable and ready to install, helping reduce assembly time and complexity.

“Agricultural spraying equipment contains a significant number of cables and components. We deliver these assembled, labelled and ready to go, which means the Hardi team can install them quickly, and deliver faster to their customers,” said Lapp Harnessing Solutions General Manager, Stuart Fleming.

With so many individual

components going into each machine, traceability offers key benefits to serviceability and maintenance.

“Traceability is huge for us,” said Harnett.

“We serialise every part for every customer, and we provide training on this for our dealers across Australia. If anything needs replacing or repair, we can find the exact component without delay.”

“Hardi places a strong emphasis on product longevity in the field, and Lapp’s harnessing solutions help us achieve this, which maintains our long-term relationships with customers and dealers.”

Agricultural customers often require equipment delivered within tight seasonal timeframes.

“Lapp has helped us meet fast installation times and has worked with us to meet any challenges.

They’ve been helpful and easy to work with, and I particularly

LAPP have provided Hardi with harnessing solutions

appreciate that we can get on the phone and talk with a real person,” said Harnett.

“At the end of the day, quality product backed by quality service is what we’re looking for in our suppliers, and Lapp has always gone above and beyond. We’re already looking at some new projects that we can involve the Harnessing Solutions Division in.”

LAPP Australia lappaustralia.com.au

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 69

ELECTRONICS

Designing electronics that hold up under pressure

By Shawn Luke, technical marketing engineer, DigiKey

M

odern electronic systems play a critical role across nearly every industry in Australia.

Whether managing vehicle safety systems or keeping commercial kitchen equipment running in hot, wet conditions, these systems must perform reliably in environments where failure is not an option.

At the centre of that reliability are cables and connectors that carry power and data (components that may seem minor until something goes wrong).

As a leading electronic components distributor, DigiKey helps engineers across industries access proven automotive-grade solutions designed for industrial, agricultural and commercial demands.

I recently spoke with industry expert Kirk Ulery, distribution business development manager at Molex, to learn how innovations in the automotive industry are being applied across industries.

Automotive as the testing ground Expectations for electronic systems are especially high in vehicles, as they don’t operate in controlled environments. Temperatures can be extremely high or low, moisture is often present and vibration from driving puts constant stress on components.

The electronic systems in vehicles are responsible for vital functions where failure isn’t an option. “There’s a long-standing joke between computer people and automotive people,” said Ulery. “The computer person says they innovate faster, but the automotive person can counter that if you get the blue screen of death at 120 kilometres an hour, you’re dead.”

Because these systems are so critical, the automotive industry has become a perfect proving ground for designing and testing electronic systems.

Taking technology beyond the garage While the specific challenges Australian engineers must anticipate differ across industries, the pressure put on components and the need to withstand harsh conditions are similar, and engineers need to start with the environment.

Understanding what a component needs to withstand, whether that’s

Shawn Luke, technical marketing engineer, DigiKey

heat, moisture, vibration, or all of these, is what leads to identifying the right product for the application.

According to Ulery, a good example is the Molex MX150 Connector, which is one of the most widely used Molex product lines available through DigiKey. It’s a mid-current, mid-voltage system used across automotive applications, including internal combustion fuel injector modules and certain braking systems. These components are regularly exposed to harsh conditions.

While traditionally used in automotive, a manufacturer approached Molex about using the MX150 Connector in commercial dishwashers to seal the control board in its machines. These dishwashers run seven days a week in high-heat, high-moisture environments and previously, a leak could expose an unprotected circuit board, leading to costly repairs and the machine breaking down. By using a sealed connector specially designed for

70 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

the harsh conditions, the system is now protected. A wet circuit board previously meant fried components and an expensive repair. But now, just the outside of the machine gets wet, and it’s not a big problem. That’s a huge value for the manufacturer.

Modern data centres on wheels Today’s vehicles are packed with cameras, sensors and safety systems that all need to communicate at once. This puts a lot of pressure on the connectors and wiring to bring everything together. Several technologies are driving this evolution and crossing into other industries.

• 48V systems: Higher system voltage reduces current for a given power level, enabling smaller conductors while improving efficiency.

• Power over Coax and HFM: Combines power and high-speed data over one coax cable, with HFM connectors supporting compact, high-bandwidth camera and

sensor applications.

• Single Pair Ethernet (SPE): Uses one wire pair to carry bidirectional Ethernet. Its key advantages include reduced cable weight and simplified architecture.

• Zonal architecture: Groups sensors and functions into local zones with a fast backbone between them, shortening wire runs and making complex systems easier to scale and evolve.

Together, these technologies are important components of modern vehicles. And increasingly, they’re being used for other industrial and commercial products that require the same rugged standard. What the Australian automotive industry has proven is that it’s possible to build systems that hold up consistently over time. While the application may change, the expectation to perform doesn’t, no matter the industry.

DigiKey Australia - digikey.com.au industryupdate.com.au

ELECTRONICS

How to get the most out of TwinCAT

T

echnology moves at a fast pace and it’s rare that industrial tech stands the test of time.

TwinCAT, an automation software suite, is an exception. It has evolved to meet the needs of customers over decades.

TwinCAT (The Windows Control and Automation Technology) is an integrated development environment from Beckhoff Automation that turns almost any PC-based system into a real-time controller with multi-PLC functionality, NC/CNC, robotics and HMI capabilities.

With integration options available for C++, MATLAB and more, it is widely used in industrial automation for machine control, robotics and system integration, providing a unified environment for PLC, motion control and HMI development.

Beckhoff Automation Australia project manager, Ben Harrison, said the evolution of TwinCAT software – and revolutionary industrial automation breakthroughs in general - is “shaped under constant tension”.

“There’s always a need for more – more flexibility, more performance gains and greater reliability,” he said.

Unlike other systems, TwinCAT can keep up with the pace of industrial innovation.

“TwinCAT was a unique product of its time in that it was built with

the future in mind,” Harrison said.

“Hans Beckhoff made the decision to utilise PC-based hardware and to complement it with a hard real-time deterministic runtime called TwinCAT 2. He knew that PC technology would improve greatly, so by directly using this technology, TwinCAT (and all its modules) would also benefit from the continuous performance gain.”

Today TwinCAT’s evolution, from TwinCAT 2 to TwinCAT 3, reflects the broader transformation of modern industry.

The evolution of TwinCAT When TwinCAT 2 was first introduced in 1996, it was already ahead of its time.

“TwinCAT 2 delivered performance and flexibility that traditional controllers struggled to match. This approach anticipated a long-term trend in which PC hardware would continue to improve year on year. By building on that foundation, TwinCAT would automatically inherit those gains,” said Harrison.

Faster CPUs, better memory and improved architectures all translated into better control performance without requiring a reinvention of the platform.

TwinCAT 3 was born in the Y2K era. The software platform has since developed over time to meet the

72 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

needs of today’s modern businesses.

“The transition to TwinCAT 3 marked a major leap forward. With support for multi-core processors and integration into Microsoft Visual Studio, the platform aligned itself with mainstream software engineering practices,” said Harrison.

“For engineering teams, this was more than a convenience. It meant working in a trusted, familiar development environment, bridging the gap between IT and OT.” Harrison points out that Beckhoff’s ‘free development environment’ is unique to the industry.

“Almost all the tools a developer needs are completely free to use from PLC programming, motion design and computer vision to HMI development and machine learning.

All of this can be downloaded and installed by simply signing up to the MyBeckhoff portal,” he said.

Reducing the barrier to entry is central to the widespread adoption of popular software tools such as TwinCAT. “Over the last few years, we have seen significant growth, and uptake, among our customers in Australia.

We see the real value that TwinCAT delivers at a business level and so do they,” said Harrison.

“Getting started with TwinCAT often comes from a need for a consistent, scalable platform.

“Prior to Beckhoff I was a Machine Designer OEM and I was always looking for ways to have a common platform which could be applied to all types of solutions - from simple conveyors to multiservo installations.”

For newcomers, Harrison suggests formal training via Beckhoff, either in-person or online.

“We offer paid courses which the customer can either do online at their own pace or in-person. We host monthly sessions in various parts of the country. These courses will help you pick up some tricks that make the program far easier to understand,” he said.

TwinCAT supports all the major industrial languages.

“If you are confident with Ladder, Function Block Diagram or Structured Text then you will be writing code and deploying it to controllers in no time,” said Harrison.

When it comes to coding best practices, Harrison keeps it simple. He recommends avoiding Hungarian notation, limiting

Beckhoff project manager, Ben Harrison believes TwinCAT’s strength is that it is “shaped under constant tension”.

abbreviations and structuring code logically.

“Don’t make variables too hard to read. Reduce the mental load when reading code,” he said.

Tips to get the most out of TwinCAT • Download the TwinCAT Package Manager and install TwinCAT XAE • Book into a local TwinCAT training course to get the basics (and foundation) right. These sessions are useful for users of all levels.

• Code and deploy locally. The best way to learn is to ‘do’, TwinCAT runs locally and you can try everything using the free trial license • Understand the importance of EtherCAT. TwinCAT provides a modular, real-time, deterministic runtime, which can perform almost any task. When you couple this with the fast, real-time, deterministic advantages of EtherCAT then the design possibilities are endless.

Harrison said TwinCAT’s evolution is ultimately about making industrial automation more practical, scalable and accessible for engineers.

“Success comes down to using the right tools, keeping code clear and building on proven best practices.

With free development tools, strong language support and real-time performance through EtherCAT, TwinCAT provides a flexible foundation.”

Beckhoff Automation beckhoff.com

industryupdate.com.au

ELECTRONICS

Wenglor launches high-power LED bar light for machine vision applications

The new LED light from Wenglor is available from Treotham

W

englor has introduced its new LBF high-power LED bar light, designed to deliver consistent, high-intensity illumination for demanding machine vision and industrial inspection applications.

The LBF has been developed to provide homogeneous light distribution and shadow-free illumination, helping manufacturers achieve reliable image quality during highspeed inspections and automated production processes.

The light is suitable for applications including tunnel inspection, high-speed sorting and dimensional measurement, where consistent illumination is critical to accurate machine vision performance.

The system delivers up to 2.5 million lux at a working distance of 200 mm and features a rise time of less than 1 μs, helping reduce motion blur during image capture. This allows manufacturers to maintain image quality even in fast-moving production environments.

Wenglor says the LBF combines high-performance illumination with low power consumption through the use of an integrated controller.

The unit has also been designed for straightforward installation. A T-slot mounting system on three sides of the housing allows flexible mounting arrangements, while a range of accessories and mounting adaptors support integration into different production environments.

Compatibility with angle

Key features include: • Up to 2.5 million lux at a working distance of 200 mm • Rise time of less than 1 μs • Suitable for high-speed and dynamic inspection processes • Homogeneous, shadow-free illumination • Low power consumption • Flexible T-slot mounting system • Adjustable beam angle options • Integrated controller changers enables the beam angle to be adjusted to suit specific applications, helping achieve uniform illumination across the entire field of view.

The LBF has been engineered to meet the increasing demands of modern machine vision systems, where reliable illumination plays a critical role in inspection accuracy, process consistency and production efficiency.

Treotham Automation treothamautomation.com.au

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 73

PRODUCTS

Pneumatic actuation could boost solar plant output by 40%

A

ustralia is on track for 82% renewable energy by 2030, according to the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water.

This doubling of green energy’s share of the energy mix within the current decade is driven by record solar and wind investments and battery advances.

Urban businesses – including manufacturers, food and beverage and primary processors, commercial buildings, transport and warehouse logistics – have been quick to realise the potential of capturing clean, low-cost energy on their rooftops.

They are joining miners, energy producers, water, wastewater utilities and farmers in harnessing power from the sun to bring down the cost of energy as a major production input.

To maximise the amount of solar energy captured by banks of panels, businesses, engineers, and solar farm operators and builders are seeking the best way to actuate their panels to track the sun, thus increasing energy output by 30-40% compared to fixed systems.

High-efficiency and typically less expensive alternatives to more complex actuation methods – such as geared motors and hydraulics

– include pneumatic actuators, which can offer a robustly durable, low-maintenance and cost-effective option, according to current research by the international Science Direct industrial research platform.

A current harsh climate case study by ScienceDirect finds pneumatic actuators ideal for rugged environments, using compressed air to maintain optimal sun-tracking angles.

Key Features and Advantages: • High force-to-weight ratios and high reliability with fewer failure points.

• Less expensive and much simpler design.

• Cost-Efficient Operation: Lower manufacturing costs compared to conventional systems and ongoing energy savings due to low-duty cycle operation.

• High Reliability: Pneumatic systems, including rubber and fabric air springs types, can provide millions of cycles with minimal maintenance.

• Dual-Axis Capability: Used in dual-axis trackers for both altitude and azimuth positioning, allowing trackers to follow the sun precisely.

Rubber-and-fabric air springs for

Air Springs can provide actuation solutions

pneumatic solar tracking are simple, tough and proven in applications as rugged as stamping presses and suspensions of 100-ton trucks. They operate on standard industrial compressed air “All of the advantages that engineers are finding in international studies apply very strongly in Australia,” says Vinh Lam, Technical Products Manager, Air Springs Supply Pty Ltd, which is the

national distributor for Firestone Airide Actuators “Air spring actuators are well suited to a wide range of solar actuation applications, including rooftop applications, where users prize maintenance-free durability and long service life.”

Air Springs Supply airsprings.com.au

Portable, retractable barriers secure top tier Sydney precinct

H

igh end projects require topof-the-range products that are functional while looking stylish.

ATDC’s market-leading Double Diamond portable retractable barriers fit the bill.

As well as being aesthetically pleasing, they continue to set the benchmark for safety, security and compliance across retail, construction and property sectors.

Property development company, Toga Group, recently installed 35 meters of these custom-built portable barriers in its Surry Hills Village re-development in Sydney, just off Cleveland and Baptist Streets in the inner city. The barriers were

required to screen off sections off the precinct after hours.

The Double Diamond portable retractable barriers feature a tightly interwoven heavy-duty mesh infill with a narrow 65mm pitch, significantly restricting reach-through access and deterring climbing attempts.

Designed for retailers, builders, developers, architects, designers and facility managers the system is compliant with the relevant provisions of the Australian Standards for Temporary Fencing and Hoardings, the barriers satisfy Dynamic Impact, no foothold and simulated climbing requirements.

The system also supports WHS

74 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

ATDC’s market-leading Double Diamond portable retractable barriers set the benchmark for safety, security and compliance.

and OH&S compliance and can incorporate keyless emergency egress functionality to meet relevant BCA provisions.

Australian Trellis Door trellisdoors.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

PRODUCTS

LM Fasteners supports Australian manufacturing with fast supply

S

ince its establishment in 1998, LM Fasteners has grown into one of Australia’s trusted suppliers of fastening solutions, building its reputation on a combination of product range, industry knowledge and a commitment to genuine customer service.

Located in Smithfield, NSW, the company has become a reliable partner for trades, construction professionals, manufacturers and businesses seeking dependable fastening products backed by practical expertise.

What sets LM Fasteners apart is its dedication to traditional, faceto-face service in an increasingly automated industry.

While many suppliers rely solely on online transactions, LM Fasteners continues to prioritise direct customer interaction.

Orders can be placed easily by phone or email and customers are always welcome to visit the company’s well-known trade counter, where knowledgeable staff are ready to assist.

This personalised approach ensures that customers receive the right advice and the right product for their specific application.

Behind this service is one of the most extensive fastener inventories available.

LM Fasteners stocks a comprehensive range of products including bolts, nuts, screws, rivets, threaded rods, masonry anchors, washers and cap screws.

Materials range from mild steel and galvanised finishes to stainless steel, brass and high tensile grades, with structural fasteners also available for heavy-duty applications.

The company supplies fasteners in metric, metric fine and imperial sizes, ensuring compatibility across a wide variety of industries and projects.

The company’s expansive warehouse operations allow it to maintain significant stock levels, enabling fast turnaround times for customers who need products quickly.

LM Fasteners provides next-day delivery across Sydney, while courier

LM Fasteners facility in Smithfield, NSW

services ensure efficient dispatch to customers across wider regions.

This reliability allows businesses to maintain productivity without delays caused by supply shortages.

Beyond fasteners, LM Fasteners offers a broad range of complementary products including drill bits, hand tools, abrasives, sealants and thread repair equipment such as taps and dies. This wider offering allows customers to source essential tools and materials in one convenient location, streamlining procurement for busy trades and businesses.

Strong partnerships with trusted suppliers play an essential role in maintaining consistent product

quality and availability.

LM Fasteners also offers the flexibility to purchase screws and bolts individually, giving customers the freedom to buy exactly what they need without unnecessary excess.

More than two decades after its founding, LM Fasteners continues to deliver on its promise of reliability, expertise and service.

By combining extensive stock availability with knowledgeable support and efficient delivery, the company remains committed to helping Australian industries stay connected one fastener at a time.

LM Fasteners - lmfasteners.com.au

AMS the exclusive distributor for ISOIL

T

he ISOIL range of magnetic and ultrasonic flowmeters will be exclusively distributed by AMS Instrumentation & Calibration Pty Ltd. As well as the ISOIL range, AMS offers a full range of instrumentation.

ISOIL Industria is a global manufacturer and supplier of electromagnetic and ultrasonic flowmeters for liquids. For over 60 years, its products have been designed, developed and manufactured at the Hemina production centre and the Libra accredited calibration laboratory in Italy.

With product lines covering Flow, Level, Energy Measurement, Analysis, Automation and Controls, Hardware Systems and Software, ISOIL operates mainly in the sectors of the integrated water cycle, HVAC, industrial automation, security and transport control, food and chemical industries, agriculture and building automation.

Through the divisions ISOCONTROL (water sector), ISOTHERMIC (thermal energy, industrial and civil automation), ISOIL Industria offers a qualified and specialised service that goes from personalised advice before purchasing through to maintenance plans and technical assistance. industryupdate.com.au

AMS is thrilled to be appointed the exclusive distributor for ISOIL

ISOIL’s comprehensive range of instrumentation, complex software systems and technical measurement services offer high quality and safety standards.

• ISOMAG: electromagnetic flow meters • ISOFLUX: ultrasonic flow meters • ISONRG: thermal energy meters • ISOD@M: data loggers and data management and analysis software AMS is looking forward to a long and rewarding relationship with ISOIL. AMS - ams-ic.com.au Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 75

PRODUCTS

Pack King crane simplifies lifting on rough terrain

P

ack King excel in problem solving - and the Powered Floor Crane is a textbook example.

The company wanted to produce a crane with power drive and lift for building sites - where it is invaluable, as no licence is required to operate and thus heavy items can be moved around on uneven ground by any worker.

With various end effectors for moving pallets, drums, steel and more, the Rough Terrain version of the Powered Floor Crane is worth its weight in gold.

It eliminates the need for an expensive all terrain forklift or crane truck and is easily transported to site on a standard trailer with a ramp - or even one of their other products, the King Eziloader Trailer that loads at ground level.

The Powered Floor Crane has also become a favourite workhorse on building sites, being used floor to floor as the building rises, as the unit weight is vastly less than a forklift and doesn’t require a licence to use.

It also rotates on its own axis and

can be fitted with vacuum frames for glass, stone and wall panels.

Many more industries have cottoned on to the versatility of this rough terrain version of the Powered Floor Crane, with a weight range from 300-1200 kgs and lift height to 2700mm.

Both fabricators of large pipes that need to raise the pipe onto a rotating jig and steel fabricators moving heavy pieces find it invaluable, as do chemical companies looking to load drums onto utes or into cradles using a drum rim clamp.

It is ideal for outside use, with 140mm of ground clearance, 406mm x 110mm wide front knobbly-tyred front wheels and a single 300mm x 125mm drive wheel.

The tiller is height adjustable, speed controls are thumb operated from either side of the handle and the crane comes fitted with safety auto reverse pad, horn, battery charge indicator and an emergency stop for extra safety.

Pack King - packking.com.au

The rough terrain Powered Floor Crane from Pack King

INSTRUMENTATION & CALIBRATION PTY LTD S P E C I A L I S T S Analytical Process Division AMS have been suppliers of instrumentation and calibration equipment to all industries since 1973 representing some of the world’s leading manufacturers of the equipment in their field.

www.ams-ic.com.au sales@ams-ic.com.au 76 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

industryupdate.com.au

EVENTS

Industry celebrates as major awards handed out in gala event

ARBS 2026 Industry Excellence Winners EDUCATION AND TRAINING EXCELLENCE AWARD Precise Air Aboriginal Pathways (PAAP) Precise Air Group HVAC PRODUCT EXCELLENCE AWARD ECU45DV Dual-Voltage Environmental Control Unit Cold Logic IBTECH PRODUCT EXCELLENCE AWARD Refrigerant Leak Detection Solution Bueno Analytics

The ARBS Industry Excellence Awards were held in Melbourne

A

RBS has celebrated the best and brightest of the HVAC&R industry with a gala awards dinner at the Zinc in Federation Square in Melbourne.

The ARBS Industry Excellence Awards was held on the second night of the ARBS show at the Melbourne Convention and Events Centre, and brought together the entire heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration and building services industry.

Hosted by TV favourite Myf

Warhurst, guests were treated to live music, exceptional food and, of course, an extensive insight into best practice in the industry.

Seven awards were presented across product innovation, project delivery and education, alongside six Hall of Fame inductees recognised for their contribution to the sector in Australia.

“The ARBS Industry Excellence Awards exist to shine a light on the extraordinary work happening

IBTECH PROJECT EXCELLENCE AWARD 123 Albert Street, Brisbane, QLD VAE Group MAJOR PROJECT EXCELLENCE AWARD (OVER $5 MILLION) Sydney Metro Martin Place, NSW A.G. Coombs Group

across our industry every day,” said Amanda Searle, ARBS, CEO. “From innovative products that are changing what’s possible, to projects that demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication, and individuals who have shaped this

MINOR PROJECT EXCELLENCE AWARD (UNDER $5 MILLION) Eastland Shopping Centre, Chiller Upgrade, VIC Airmaster REFRIGERATION PRODUCT EXCELLENCE AWARD Panasonic Transcritical CO₂ Technology (TCO2) Outdoor Condensing Unit Hussmann Australia ARBS Hall of Fame - 2026 Inductees Six exceptional individuals were inducted into the ARBS Hall of Fame, nominated by their respective industry associations in recognition of distinguished careers and lasting contributions to the sector.

AIRAH: Bryon Price AREMA: Robert Beggs ARWA: Paul Campbell CIBSE: Steve Hennessy RACCA: Paul Wright AMCA: David Eynon

industry for decades.

“On behalf of the entire ARBS team, I offer our warmest congratulations to every winner and Hall of Fame inductee.”

ARBS - arbs.com.au

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Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026 | 77

EVENTS

HMAs launch 2026 program with ‘We Make It Here’ theme

T

he Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMAs) are back for 2026, marking 22 years of celebrating the best of the manufacturing industry in the Hunter, Central Coast, New England and Mid-North Coast regions of New South Wales.

The theme of 2026’s awards was revealed as ‘We Make It Here’, tying nicely with the national ‘Made Right Here’ campaign that has swept through the manufacturing industry to start the year.

The HMAs are a popular feature of the manufacturing calendar and represent one of the most important areas of Australia for the sector, with Newcastle and surrounding areas central to growth in defence, renewables and advanced manufacturing.

They are also a partner of the Australian Manufacturing Awards, with winners advanced as finalists in the national event where categories align.

2026 will be the first HMAs to take place under the stewardship of new chair Chris Kelleher, who takes over from long-standing convenor Jacqui Daley and brings 13 years’ experience as an HMA judge as well

as a long career in manufacturing.

“Manufacturing across our region looks very different from what many people imagine. It’s no longer defined by a single industry or a single way of working - it spans advanced technology, food and beverage, medical products, textiles, energy, recycling, and so much more,” he said.

“What unites it all is the capability and determination of the people behind it. Manufacturing continues to evolve and adapt, asserting its place as a vital contributor to Australia’s industrial landscape and entering a period of renewed confidence and visibility.”

The HMAs launch event is traditionally held at the premises of the prior year’s Manufacturer of the Year winners.

Brain Industries, who won the category for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, and Agrana Fruit Australia, the winner in the over 50 employees category, hosted the launch at Brain’s facility in Carrington.

“The role the Hunter Manufacturing Awards takes in promoting our region’s manufacturers and bringing them together is

78 | Industry Update Issue 149 - Jun/Jul 2026

crucial,” said Brain Industries Man aging Director Gillian Summers.

“Our region is one of Australia’s leading advanced manufacturing export centres, by scaling up what we already do. We have never been short of capability. We need to be bold about promoting what we make, from batteries and defence to energy and industrial technology.”

Agrana Fruit Australia Chief Financial Officer Christine Chiesa added: “Manufacturing in our region is bold, capable and outward‑looking.

At Agrana, we create fruit preparations and ingredients used by leading food and beverage brands across Australia and internationally - proof that regional manufacturers are shaping global supply chains and competing at the highest level.

“The HMA program celebrates that ambition and the ingenuity behind it. The fast‑tracking of winners to the national awards provides a powerful pathway for regional businesses to gain recognition on a broader stage.”

The HMAs are back in 2026

Upcoming Events CeMAT Australia 23–25 Jun 2026 Melbourne, Australia FoodPro 26–29 Jul 2026 MCEC Melbourne Land Forces 2026 6-8 Oct 2026 Perth, Western Australia Australian Manufacturing Awards October 8 2026 Crown Melbourne

HMA - hma.org.au

industryupdate.com.au

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