Manufacturers Monthly Sept 2025 by Prime Group

Smarter compressed air solutions for smarter manufacturing

Atlas Copco is redefining industrial air compression with energy-efficient, intelligent solutions that help manufacturers cut costs, reduce emissions, and stay competitive. From the GA VSDs series—delivering up to 60% energy savings—to oil-free and centrifugal compressors, every product is built for performance and sustainability.

SmartLink and AIRPlan offer real-time insights and hassle-free ownership, while containerised AIRCUBE systems provide flexible, plug-and-play solutions. With advanced control, heat recovery, and 24/7 support, Atlas Copco delivers compressed air solutions that works harder and smarter.

Efficiency. Reliability. Innovation.

That’s the Atlas Copco advantage.

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Welcome to the September edition of Manufacturers’ Monthly

This issue sees the release of IBISWorld’s Top 100 Manufacturers List, a deﬁnitive ranking of Australia’s highest-revenue manufacturing companies across 62 industries. For this issue’s cover story, we explore Atlas Copco’s energyefﬁcient industrial air compressors that help manufacturers cut costs, reduce emissions, and stay competitive in a changing landscape. Finally, RSM Australia’s Manufacturing Playbook, experts Rebecca Barnes and Tim Linke reveal how strategic guidance and prepared applications are enabling manufacturers to secure vital funding for innovation, resilience, and expansion.

Celebrating manufacturing’s ongoing evolution

It’s that time of year again for Australia’s manufacturing sector with the release of IBISWorld’s 2025 Top 100 Manufacturers List. Showcasing the highest-revenue earners across 62 industries, the list represents a combined $376 billion in revenue and offers a clear snapshot of the sector’s performance. It’s a rare opportunity to focus on key trends and shifts without the cloud of negative commentary that too often overshadows manufacturing’s successes.

This year’s list reinforces what we, and many others have highlighted before: manufacturing in Australia is not “dying” – it’s evolving. That evolution brings both highs and lows, with some industries poised to drive the sector forward while others require policy reform or stronger sovereign support.

Leading the charge in the past year is pharmaceutical product manufacturing, which has grown exponentially. The sector’s momentum is clear from the volume of stories

in Manufacturers’ Monthly this year alone, with companies such as Vaxxas, Baxter Healthcare and Recce Pharmaceuticals featuring. With targeted R&D investment enabling expansion and global partnerships, companies like CSL are lifting capacity and strengthening Australia’s reputation as a leader in healthcare manufacturing.

Unfortunately, not all sectors have shared in the gains. Iron and steel manufacturing has taken a hit. Global forces – including China’s shift toward high-grade green steel to meet its 2060 carbon neutrality goal – have increased the pressure on local producers.

For a deeper analysis of these dynamics, the dedicated IBISWorld Top 100 Manufacturers section in this month’s issue is essential reading. Behind the scenes of the industry, a range of services and technologies continue to help manufacturers navigate today’s complex market environment.

Targeted government grants remain critical, enabling innovation, resilience and expansion in

the face of unstable supply chains and geopolitical tensions. In this issue, RSM Australia experts Tim Linke and Rebecca Barnes share advice on navigating the grants landscape, emphasising the importance of building robust business cases and ﬁnancial models.

Technology also plays a central role in enabling growth. Compressed air solutions, often considered manufacturing’s “fourth utility” alongside electricity, gas and water, are powering tools, machinery and production processes. They underpin operations from material handling and assembly to cleaning and equipment control. This month’s cover story spotlights Atlas Copco’s, with CAPS, Pulford Air & Gas and Boge insights also featured.

Australia’s manufacturing sector continues to try to redeﬁne itself – fuelled by innovation and targeted support. By embracing advanced technologies and strategic guidance, local manufacturers are building the means needed to compete on a global stage.

rely on gas for their round-the-clock operations. Developing a renewable gas sector could help to provide additional sustainable energy solutions for being used successfully overseas, in places like

Smarter manufacturing: Atlas Copco’s energy-efﬁcient air compressors

Atlas Copco is redeﬁning industrial air compression with energy-efﬁcient, smart technologies that help manufacturers cut costs, reduce carbon emissions, and stay competitive in a changing landscape.

In today’s manufacturing environment, energy efﬁciency is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. With rising energy costs, tightening environmental regulations, and increasing pressure to meet sustainability targets, manufacturers are turning to smarter technologies to stay competitive.

Atlas Copco, a global name in compressed air solutions, is at the forefront of this transformation with its portfolio of energy-efﬁcient air compressors designed for smarter manufacturing.

A legacy of innovation

Atlas Copco has been pioneering compressed air technology for more than a century. Its latest generation of air compressors continues this legacy, combining cutting-edge engineering with sustainability-driven design.

The company’s Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology, particularly the GA VSDs series, has redefined energy efficiency in industrial air compression – delivering up to 50-60 per cent energy savings compared to traditional fixedspeed compressors.

“Our GA VSDs compressors are engineered to adapt to real-time demand,” said Roshan Kumbla, product manager at Atlas Copco Australia. “This means they only use the energy required – nothing more, nothing less. It’s a game-changer for manufacturers looking to cut costs and carbon emissions.”

Segmented portfolio for manufacturing needs

Atlas Copco offers a range of air compressors tailored to the diverse needs of the manufacturing industry. Here’s a breakdown of the key product segments:

1. Oil-Injected Rotary Screw Compressors

Models are available from 5 kW up to 500 kW, making these compressors the backbone of many manufacturing operations. With a compact vertical design, integrated Variable Speed Drive (VSD), and low noise levels, they are well suited to spaceconstrained environments. They deliver up to 50–60 per cent energy savings, operate as quietly as 62 dB(A), and can be equipped with integrated dryer and controller options. In addition, smart connectivity via the Elektronikon Touch controller

ensures efﬁcient monitoring and optimisation of performance.

“The GA VSDs is not just efﬁcient – it’s intelligent,” Kumbla said. “It learns from your usage patterns and optimises performance automatically.”

2. Oil-Free Compressors (Class 0 Certiﬁed)

The ZR/ZT Series and AQ Series are designed for industries where air purity is critical, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Atlas Copco’s oil-free compressors deliver ISO 8573-1 Class 0 certiﬁed air, ensuring the highest standard of quality and safety. They provide 100 per cent oil-free air, reduce the risk of contamination, and help lower maintenance costs. Additionally, energy recovery options further enhance efﬁciency and sustainability for manufacturers.

3. Centrifugal Compressors

This ZH Series are designed for high-capacity applications and are suited to large-scale manufacturing plants that require a continuous supply of compressed air. They deliver high flow rates with reliable oil-free operation, ensuring product integrity while keeping running costs low. With advanced control systems and a low total cost of ownership, they provide an efﬁcient and dependable solution for demanding industrial environments.

4. Containerised Solutions – AIRCUBE

For manufacturers needing flexibility or rapid deployment, the AIRCUBE provides a plug-and-play compressor room in a containerised format. This integrated system allows for quick installation and is well suited to remote or temporary sites. With customisable conﬁgurations, the AIRCUBE delivers a practical, scalable solution that meets a range of operational needs.

Smart features that drive efﬁciency

Atlas Copco’s SmartLink and AIRPlan solutions are transforming how businesses manage compressed air. SmartLink gives users real-time insights into system performance, helping reduce energy use, prevent downtime, and plan maintenance proactively. AIRPlan takes the hassle out of ownership by offering a complete compressed air package – including equipment, service, and upgrades – for a ﬁxed monthly fee. No upfront investment, no surprises. Together, these solutions

deliver reliability, transparency, and peace of mind, so users can focus on what matters most: running operations efﬁciently.

The Elektronikon Touch Controller is a smart, user-friendly interface that gives full control over a compressor system. It offers real-time monitoring, advanced scheduling, and energy-saving features – all accessible through a responsive touchscreen. Designed for reliability and efﬁciency, it helps optimise performance and reduce operational costs. Also, the Optimizer 4.0 is a central controller that manages multiple compressors, ensuring optimal load distribution and minimising energy use.

There are also key energy recovery systems, with up to 94 per cent of the energy used in compression can be recovered as heat and reused in other processes, such as water heating or space heating.

“One of our clients in the food sector now uses recovered heat from their compressors to preheat water for cleaning processes,” said Kumbla. “It’s a perfect example of circular efﬁciency.”

Service and support

Atlas Copco backs its products with a robust service network across Australia 24/7. From preventive maintenance to emergency repairs, customers beneﬁt from local expertise and global standards. Service highlights include:

• Genuine parts and lubricants.

• Remote monitoring and diagnostics.

• Tailored service plans.

• ISO-certiﬁed quality and safety standards.

• Real-World results.

Whether it’s a small workshop or a largescale production facility, Atlas Copco offers a tailored, energy-efﬁcient air solution to meet customers’ needs.

For more info, please visit this QR Code or contact Atlas Copco Compressors Australia at 1800 023 469

Atlas Copco has a portfolio of energy-efficient air compressors designed for smarter manufacturing.

Image: Atlas Copco

Winning government grants: A manufacturer’s guide to success

With Australia’s manufacturing sector under pressure, RSM Australia explores how strategic advice and well-prepared grant applications are helping manufacturers access critical funding for innovation, resilience and expansion.

Australia’s manufacturing sector is at a critical juncture, but rising demand for sovereign capabilities and decarbonisation is creating strong opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and expand.

Government grant funding can be a powerful tool to help businesses seize this momentum, offering support for growth, modernisation and long-term resilience. While the funding landscape can be complex, those who navigate it successfully are unlocking advantages.

“There’s never really a bad time to act, but the manufacturing sector is in decline, and that needs to be addressed,” said Tim Linke, partner, Financial Modelling, RSM Australia.

“Government support is out there – businesses should be taking advantage of it to expand manufacturing lines rather than continue down the path of contraction.”

This view is shared by Rebecca Barnes, RSM’s director of National Grants, who believes targeted funding programs designed to build resilience in the sector have never been more important.

“We’ve seen international supply chains become

less stable and geopolitical tensions increase, and all of that points to the need for stronger onshore manufacturing,” she said.

Navigating the funding landscape

Australian State and Federal Governments collectively offer billions of dollars across thousands of grant programs. According to Barnes, the grants targeted at manufacturers have increasingly become focused on speciﬁc subsectors – speciﬁcally critical minerals processing, medical technologies, ag-tech, defence, transport, energy and renewables – rather than supporting traditional manufacturing more broadly.

A major trend in recent years has been the focus on decarbonisation. Grant funding is now frequently used to help high-emitting manufacturers reduce their environmental impact, while simultaneously supporting innovation in low-carbon technologies. However, identifying the right grant opportunity is only the beginning. According to Barnes, a good grant application does more than tick eligibility boxes; it aligns with the strategic intent of the funding body and presents a clear, compelling case.

“It’s a minefield out there. The government offers thousands of programs and billions of dollars, but figuring out what’s relevant is incredibly difficult,” she said. “My full-time job is staying across the grants landscape, understanding the details of the eligibility criteria and the intent behind each funding body’s program.

“Even if you meet the eligibility criteria, that doesn’t always mean you’re likely to be competitive. It’s about knowing what kind of ribbon the funding body wants to cut.”

How RSM helps

To help manufacturers navigate this “mineﬁeld,” RSM has built a specialised grant advisory service that supports businesses through every stage of the process, from initial scoping to post-grant reporting and commercialisation. Rather than trying to navigate that mineﬁeld alone, manufacturers who are unsure can contact RSM, ask questions and get options and possibilities in return.

“This is a key service line that RSM has invested in and built speciﬁcally to support clients through the complexity of the grants landscape,” said Linke. Strategic preparation is critical. Grants are rarely awarded retroactively, and businesses must demonstrate how the funding aligns with broader growth plans. Linke says that the correct process starts with having a clear plan and demonstrating

Rebecca Barnes, director of National Grants, RSM Australia.

Barnes believes targeted funding programs designed to build resilience in the sector have never been more important.

Image: Montri/stock.adobe.com

how the grant will be used to support that plan.

RSM’s approach involves helping clients build robust business cases, develop ﬁnancial forecasts, and use ‘what-if’ scenario modelling to understand the potential impact of grant funding.

“We help clients develop models and forecast tools to perform ‘what if’ analysis, essentially providing a crystal ball for potential outcomes,” said Linke. “This analysis helps them decide the right course of action based on current micro and macroeconomic conditions.”

To help address the rigorous and multifaceted grant application process, Barnes outlined a multi-step approach, starting with a realistic assessment of the implications of grant funding.

“It’s important to consider whether a grant works commercially for your business,” she said. “For example, if applying means you can’t start your project for another four months, is that delay going to harm your commercial interests?”

Next comes project definition, developing a win theme, preparing documentation – such as project plans, governance frameworks and financial modelling – and finally, lodgement. Very often, grant applications involve large numbers of stakeholders, contributors and deliverables which need to be coordinated to a hard deadline.

Barnes said that helping businesses achieve this level of preparedness is one of the qualities of a good grants consultant, but an excellent grants consultant “will be passionate about your success”.

“They will work and push and communicate and sacriﬁce as though your success were their own,” she said.

One example is a minerals processing company that approached RSM Australia with a decarbonisation project. Unsure of where to start, they relied on RSM to connect the project with the right funding stream.

“ We set up a workshop to fully understand the project, the business and their trajectory, then mapped it against the funding landscape,” Barnes said. “Ultimately, we helped them secure more than $30 million for their decarbonisation project.”

Beyond the grant

Importantly, RSM’s support doesn’t end once the grant is approved. The ﬁrm views funding as part of a broader business growth lifecycle where grants, ﬁnancial modelling, auditing and strategic advisory services work together to scale a company sustainably. All these elements support a growing business beyond just securing grant funding.

“The grant process is just one part of a broader business support system,” Linke said. “RSM has teams that can support a range of business requirements, including audit, business advisory, and preparing for potential M&A or divestments down the track.”

With interest rates expected to fall, Linke believes now is an opportune time to consider blending public and private capital to support growth initiatives.

“It’s probably a good time to be brave – to take advantage of both public and private funding opportunities and invest in growth,” he said. Looking ahead, the pair believe manufacturers should keep an eye on key state and federal programmes such as the Industry Growth Programme, CRC Projects, the National Reconstruction Fund, Defence Industry Development Grants and ARENA’s suite of decarbonisation incentives.

“There are different categories of grants depending on what you’re looking to achieve, such as funding for new IP development or manufacturing expansion,” Barnes said. “When it comes to capital facility establishment, the National Reconstruction Fund is a key program – though it’s not a grant, but rather debt ﬁnance or investment.”

Critical capital for the future

Government grants are not merely helpful addons – for many businesses, they are enablers of future growth. In many cases, grants play a critical role in enabling businesses to take the next step.

“At the highest level, grants can be a decision breaker on potential acquisitions or expansions – essentially the next evolution of the business,” said Linke.

With the right preparation, guidance, and strategic thinking, government grants can unlock transformational opportunities – and with RSM Australia’s support, manufacturers are increasingly turning this complex process into a powerful growth engine.

Tim Linke, partner, Financial Modelling, RSM Australia.

RSM has built a specialised grant advisory service that supports businesses through every stage of a grant process.

SUSTAINABILITY

From waste to material asset

Tyre-derived material is a scientiﬁcally validated, high-performance material driving sustainable manufacturing and proving that recycled content can rival – and even surpass – virgin resources.

For decades, recycled materials were seen by many manufacturers as unpredictable in quality, inconsistent in supply, and best suited for low-value applications.

That perception is shifting. ESG targets, tightening regulations and changing market expectations are pushing manufacturers to integrate recycled content into their products. The real change lies in how these materials are now engineered, tested and validated –making them not just viable, but sometimes superior, alternatives to virgin resources.

Tyre-derived material (TDM) is a prime example. With proven durability and versatility, it’s used in roads, permeable paving, concrete crash barriers and acoustic panels.

“There’s a real drive to do something with the resources we already have,” said Dr Linda Mitchell, science, research and innovation manager at Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA).

“Materials that were once relegated to basic applications are now being considered for highervalue infrastructure projects – often delivering comparable or better performance while helping meet sustainability targets.”

Overcoming assumptions with scientiﬁc validation

If recycled inputs once carried a stigma of being weaker or less safe, TDM is challenging that through rigorous testing. Its durability is one of the most reliably measured traits, stemming from the tyre’s original design to endure extreme conditions.

“Rubber in tyres is made to last. We validate that in lots of studies to ensure its ﬁt for purpose in its next life as TDM,” Mitchell said. “TSA’s Market Development Fund pairs funding with research — from technical studies to lab testing — so manufacturers have the evidence they need that tyre-derived rubber can deliver on durability, safety and performance.”

One focus has been road construction, where TSA partnered with the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) to compare rubbermodiﬁed roads with traditional asphalt. Across projects involving 12 councils, the results were clear.

“Eighty per cent of those roads performed just as well, or even better in terms of durability,” Mitchell said. “This is part of validating TDM to ensure performance requirements are met.”

“These studies range from testing performance properties — such as flexibility, resistance, and cracking behaviour — to assessing environmental beneﬁts including the reduced carbon emissions during production and construction. Together, they create a robust evidence base that gives manufacturers and procurement teams the conﬁdence to specify tyre-derived materials without hesitation.”

The Market Development Fund: de-risking

innovation

To accelerate adoption, TSA’s Market Development Fund (MD Fund) supports manufacturers and innovators using TDM– from concept design through to market demonstration.

The MD Fund operates year-round with two streams: a research and development pathway for early-stage concepts, and a demonstration and infrastructure pathway for market-ready products requiring trials or real-world validation. Applications are reviewed by TSA’s Research Advisory Committee and assessed by the TSA Board.

“You don’t need to start with a full application. Get in touch with us to have a chat about your idea – we can point you in the right direction and give you the best chance of success,” Mitchell said.

Several manufacturers have already leveraged TSA’s support to bring TDM products to market.

In Queensland, the Department of Primary Industries developed a particle board incorporating recycled rubber, successfully validated in their laboratory and are now progressing to full scale manufacturing trials.

In Victoria, a university project produced a concrete crash barrier containing rubber, which resulted in better energy absorption, reduced risk to vehicle occupants and increased barrier lifespan. TSA

also worked with Australian manufacturer Coloured Recycled Group to expand the use of their rubber surfacing in sports facilities and into public and private infrastructure.

Permeable paving is another success story. A Melbourne university research project, supported by TSA, evolved into a commercial business, Porous Lane, now supplying councils across several states.

“Sometimes it’s not a matter of ‘does this product work?’ but ‘does it work in this speciﬁc environment?’,” Mitchell said. “That’s where the trialling and proof-ofconcept support is so valuable.”

Lowering barriers, raising performance

With mounting evidence and case studies, Mitchell’s message to manufacturers is clear: the opportunity is here, and support is available. From reducing environmental impact to enhancing product performance, TDM offers a pathway to meet ESG goals without compromising quality.

“If you’re thinking about using rubber, engage with TSA early,” Mitchell said. “Apply for funding. It’s there to help overcome misconceptions and give you that kick start in an area that might feel a bit unknown.”

Recycled materials are no longer fringe experiments in manufacturing, but reliable, high-performance inputs of the future. For TDM, that future is already rolling out on roads, building sites and industrial projects – proving that waste can be one of manufacturing’s most valuable raw materials.

Dr Linda Mitchell, science, research and innovation manager at Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA).

Tyre-derived rubber has proven durability and versatility, making it’s suitable for use in concrete crash barriers. Images:

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Global technology for Australian applications

CAPS deliver locally engineered compressed air and power generation solutions, combining global technology with expert local support.

Efﬁcient and continuous operation are key elements in most industrial and manufacturing processes, so it is important to have a compressed air solution that achieves both.

Creating compressed air and power generation solutions across Australia for more than 45 years, CAPS delivers systems that are designed and conﬁgured to the end use application. Whether a reciprocating rotary screw, oil-free rotary screw, portable diesel or centrifugal air compressor is needed, CAPS’ solutions are engineered for local operating requirements, giving best-in-class outcomes, that last.

Any inefﬁciency or downtime can have a costly impact on operations, so CAPS draws from its

partner brands such as Ingersoll Rand, AIRMAN, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Sauer, Pedro Gil, Next Turbo Technologies, in designing a solution.

The right compressor for the job

Safety, quality and hygiene standards that are key across the manufacturing, food and pharmaceutical sectors are all captured, along with operational efﬁciencies, when specialised ‘Class Zero’ air quality compressors are utilised to supply clean, dry air.

Minimising the initial possibility of contamination by using oil-free compressors, the achievement and maintenance of critical air purity requires fewer ancillary equipment elements. With a reduction in the risk to air quality there is also less equipment

that requires servicing – all boosting the long-term operational beneﬁts for your operations.

Every application is different and the experts at CAPS can help users assess their requirements to ﬁnd the right match. For larger scale applications, CAPS has a range of oil-free centrifugal compressors as well as rotary screw compressors from 37kW to 355kW in either ﬁxed or variable speed.

On a smaller scale, CAPS can offer scroll compressors in an all-in-one solution with a dryer, storage tank and compressor in a single unit.

Offered as a single phase from 1.5kW – 2.2 kW, or three phase from 3.7kW to 7.5kW, CAPS suggests this integrated solution as suitable for smaller applications requiring oil-free air.

Initial lower costs means that many manufacturing

CAPS delivers compressed air and power generation systems that are designed and configured to the end use application.

Images: CAPS

customers opt to use oil-lubricated compressors with air treatment processes downstream. From 5kW through to a 315kW, there are many technologies and brands to choose from, and it can be challenging to evaluate different compressors to select the best technology for a particular system. CAPS offers a suite of compressed air solutions and has the expertise to help match the right equipment to a customer’s needs.

Local support with global knowledge

Founded in Western Australia in 1980, CAPS joined the global Ingersoll Rand family in 2024, expanding its access to Ingersoll Rand’s global offering of innovative and mission-critical air, fluid, energy and medical technologies. Enhancing industrial productivity and efﬁciency, the company’s delivery of air and power solutions is also underpinned by the ﬁnancial strength of Ingersoll Rand. With 10 branches nationwide, CAPS’ team brings together great service, with expert advice, support and spare parts. Its 24/7 maintenance and breakdown service ensure customers’ operations run smoothly. Additionally, CAPS Care programs package the service and support experience for clients with a range of diagnostic and maintenance programs to maximise the operational performance of the air compressors.

Reliable power when you need it

Manufacturing all but stops when the power goes out and CAPS has been entrusted to provide reliable power solutions for clients of all scales throughout Australia. Sustaining operations across manufacturing, healthcare, data centres, water treatment, landﬁlls and independent power stations, CAPS’ solutions are underpinned by high performance and fuel-efﬁcient equipment.

As Australia’s number one supplier of AIRMAN products, and the ofﬁcial Australian distributor for the Mitsubishi Generator Series (MGS), CAPS can deliver the power generation needed to keep a company operating.

Engineered to suit

CAPS delivers custom-built systems that are matched to clients’ requirements. Complete solutions are designed and developed by its in-house engineering team, with delivery supported through its Australian ISO9001 accredited manufacturing facility. This expertise also enables CAPS, where possible, to integrate new technology into existing installations, enhancing the operational performance and life of equipment and infrastructure.

The CAPS Engineering team manages the total design, development and manufacturing of specialised compressor, generator and blower

packages. This unique capability includes calibration and testing, helping to fast-track site installation, so users can plug and play.

Rental equipment to keep you operating

CAPS can also get clients operational without big capital costs with its turnkey air and power rental solutions. Keeping operations running smoothly all year round, CAPS offers short- and long-term rental of compressors and generators across Australia. They are suitable for special projects, seasonal peak demand requirements and covering any operational breakdowns.

Global technology, suited to local conditions

The national footprint of CAPS means the team is working in the same time zones as clients. It is on hand to support customers through the process, from understanding their requirements, offering suggestions and providing advice, to ultimately delivering the solutions they need. Utilising quality products with proven reliability, CAPS delivers global solutions, suited to Australian conditions and backed by local service.

CAPS draws from its world-renowned partner brands, including Ingersoll Rand.

AUTOMATION IN MANUFACTURING

Trailblazing the future of automation

Colin Wells of Robotic Automation™ reflects on nearly 40 years of industry experience and how lessons learned are guiding the company’s future.

In 1988, after his ﬁrst 10 years in the robotics industry in Europe and Australia, now group managing director Colin Wells founded his own company, Robotic Automation. The experienced team now design, supply, and integrate advanced automation and robotic systems in Australia –including turnkey robotic cells for palletising, welding, materials handling, and AGV and AMR mobile robots. The company’s solutions have helped thousands of local manufacturers in sectors like food and beverage, packaging, logistics, and heavy industry to improve safety, reduce operational costs, and boost productivity.

Reflecting on Robotic Automation’s role in a rapidly evolving industry, Wells said the company has thrived by staying true to its core strengths.

“One of the most enduring lessons we’ve learned over nearly four decades is that our greatest successes have come from leveraging our core expertise – understanding our strengths, reﬁning our capabilities, and delivering consistent value to our clients,” said Wells.

While Robotic Automation explores new markets and technologies, it does so cautiously, as the temptation to chase trends or adopt emerging tools without proper evaluation can lead to costly detours and damaged relationships. The most recent

example of this being the misinformation leading the introduction of Cobots. This honest approach has been key to both sustainability and building client trust.

“We’ve found that progress comes from a balanced approach: staying grounded in proven knowledge while remaining open to innovation – but only after rigorous assessment,” Wells said. “This philosophy has helped us grow sustainably, build trust with our partners, and stay resilient through industry shifts.”

Equally important is the company’s willingness to turn down projects it believes are not sustainable. However, Wells said when a commitment is made, delivery is essential.

“When you have committed to achieve a result then you had better deliver it, even at considerable cost–as it’s your reputation that’s on the line,” he said.

Trends shaping robotics and automation

Wells believes evolving customer needs and new technologies will continue to shape the future of robotic and automated systems. He recalled how, when Robotic Automation started in 1988, there were very few off-the-shelf options available. Anything the company needed to add or use to build a robotics-based system for a client, it had to design and make itself.

“This was tough, expensive, and therefore very risky – but no other options were available,” he said. “The robots available back then were not as friendly and nowhere near as smart or flexible as they are today.”

Now, the variety and sophistication of robotics technology is far greater, making it unnecessary to use unproven tools when more affordable, proven options are available. Yet despite that, Wells said clients still require guidance to select the right system and keep up with trends such as machine learning, flexible automation, energy efﬁciency and sustainability.

“Examples include AI-driven capabilities like machine learning through Yaskawa’s MOTOMAN NEXT. Adaptive robots equipped with AI use sensors and cameras to perceive situations, adapt, and complete tasks autonomously,” he said.

“Sustainability goals are also key, demonstrated by systems like MOTOMAN Yaskawa Energy Recovery, which enables robots to feed kinetic braking energy back into the grid.”

“Clients also need to keep driving industries like manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, warehousing, and agriculture in the front of their minds.”

Wells emphasised that combining different robotic technologies – such as those mentioned above – will be essential to the competitiveness of Australian manufacturing. Flexibility, he said, is the foundation of the industry’s future.

“In the not-too-distant future, AGVs, AMRs, conventional robots and cobots will just be known as automation,” Wells said. “No need to explain their differences – they are all just automation tools.”

Wells also believes that automation must not only be flexible, but simple to use, and applied within its limitations.

“We have an old saying – ‘don’t ask the robot to make the tea as well’ – which is when we believe we are asking too much from the robot. That inevitably results in lower output as the system is forever being edited to accommodate, instead of working and reducing the clients’ costs” he said.

Overcoming challenges to prosper in the future

The robotics and automation industry has had its fair share of challenges, often in the form of misconceptions and a lack of adequate support. According to Wells, many clients still

Robotic Automation now designs, supplies, and integrates advanced automation and robotic systems in Australia.

Images: Robotic Automation

This end-of-line packaging system is a great example of how combining robots and AMRs to work in unison produces a highly flexible product.

misunderstand what robots, AGVs, AMRs, and cobots can and cannot do. This reality is often professionally overcome by the company’s long history of proven experience that can’t be brought to the table elsewhere.

“If Robotic Automation is apprehensive about supporting an unviable project, it’s for good reason, and we can often knowledgeably guide our customers to a more effective and efﬁcient solution,” he said.

Another challenge facing Australian industry, according to Wells, is the lack of meaningful government support, particularly in research and development, where emerging consulting ﬁrms seem to be more prevalent each year, siphoning what little governmental initiatives remain for little return.

“While there is much talk of driving industry back to Australia, there are still very few initiatives actually being offered,” he said.

Wells believes this must change for Australia to compete and allow technologies like robotics to help local manufacturing thrive again. He said automation will be crucial to reviving Australian industry in the face of labour shortages, rising costs, and a growing need for efﬁciency.

“Many industries that were lost to offshore production can only be brought back if we embrace automation at scale,” he said. “Automation offers a way to rebuild smarter – enabling high-quality, costeffective, flexible production while remaining globally competitive.”

Looking ahead, Wells believes robotics will become not just a tool, but a vital component of national industry strategy.

“Without it, reshoring and revitalising Australian industry simply won’t be viable,” he concluded

MANUFACTURING SOFTWARE

Why front ofﬁce investment fuels manufacturing growth

Investing in front ofﬁce technology is a critical driver for manufacturing growth, with AI tools from companies like Paperless Parts delivering impact alongside shop floor equipment and talent.

For Jason Ray, co-founder and CEO of cloudbased quoting platform Paperless Parts, investing in front ofﬁce operations is as vital as spending on the factory floor. While often overlooked, quoting technology enables faster, more consistent estimates that keep customers engaged and operations flowing.

“You can have the most advanced equipment on your floor, but if your quoting process is slow or inconsistent, you’ll never reach your full potential,” he said. “Growth in this industry starts with the first customer interaction, not the first cut. Front office operations are the engine behind predictable, profitable growth.”

A major challenge, Ray said, is the lack of centralised, accessible data in quoting. Disconnected information leads to errors, delays and lost revenue, as quoting is high stakes: a bad estimate can lose the job or win it at a ﬁnancial loss.

“Too often, critical details live in someone’s head, a random spreadsheet, or buried in emails,” he said. “That leaves the shop floor guessing, trying to reverse-engineer what the quote was based on. Solving it starts with breaking down silos and standardising information flow from quote to production.”

Quoting often falls on the most experienced team members, who juggle admin tasks like sorting ﬁles, interpreting RFQs, and entering data. This diverts time from more valuable activities.

“A modern quoting platform takes that burden off their plate so shops can move faster, respond with conﬁdence, and compete at a higher level,” Ray said. “Manufacturing is more competitive than ever, and quoting can either be a growth engine or a bottleneck.”

Technology in practice

Paperless Parts modernises and automates the quoting process for custom manufacturers. By eliminating spreadsheets and manual workflows, it enables faster, more accurate quoting through automation, CAD integration, and data-driven tools.

“With tools like Paperless Parts, you can automate the admin and make it easier to delegate, so experts aren’t stuck with paperwork, and teams can focus on driving revenue,” Ray said.

The platform reduces quoting time, lowers costs, and improves win rates. Many customers report ROI matching or exceeding investments in machinery.

Hundreds of shops across North America, and now in Australia and New Zealand, use the software.

“A lot of shops have been burned by big, complicated software deployments that overpromised and underdelivered,” said Ray. “But when prospects see a shop down the road transforming its business with Paperless Parts, they know we’re delivering real results.”

Rather than replace expertise, the system enhances it. Paperless Parts uses AI to extract key data from RFQs, CAD ﬁles, and drawings, identifying material specs and details like threads or welds. This reduces manual work while speeding up quote preparation.

These capabilities are now bundled as Wingman – an AI-powered quoting assistant that extracts hundreds of data types and flags sensitive information. Coupled with the ﬁle-agnostic BOM Builder, which can cut bill of materials setup time by up to 90 per cent, estimators work from a single, searchable platform that slashes repetitive tasks.

Quoting requires dozens of decisions. “Paperless Parts uses AI to automatically extract answers

for the ﬁrst 80 easy decisions and then gives you a head start on the last 20 most complex questions,” Ray said.

Bringing international experience to Australia

Brisbane-based sheet metal fabricator Metal-Tech Industries (MTI) was the ﬁrst Australian business to adopt Paperless Parts. The team moved from a fragmented quoting process to a centralised system that could scale with demand.

“We’d modernised every other part of the business – this was the missing link,” said director Glen Langford.

Co-director Nathan Hockey said the platform felt purpose-built for manufacturers like MTI. After implementation, RFQs were pulled from shared inboxes, ﬁles centralised, and quotes handled from a uniﬁed dashboard.

The system allowed MTI to quote 30 per cent more work and respond to most RFQs within 24 hours, allowing sales to grow by 25 per cent.

“We’re not spending less time quoting – we’re just quoting more and ﬁnally keeping up,” Hockey said.

International users also report major efﬁciency gains: Axis Fabrication cut a four-hour quoting task to 45 minutes; M3 Fabrication compressed weeks-long BOM cleanups into regular quoting timelines; and; Reata Engineering reduced turnaround from weeks to a day.

AI-supported workflow tools: reality vs hype

The adoption of AI in manufacturing has brought both excitement and scrutiny. Paperless Parts’ success reflects a grounded approach – assisting human decision-making rather than replacing it.

Jason Luce, the company’s CTO, said AI must meet strict standards for reliability, security, and transparency – especially for projects involving Controlled Unclassiﬁed Information (CUI) or ITAR regulations.

“If you’re quoting sensitive or conﬁdential work, data security isn’t optional,” said Luce. “The best ﬁlter for AI hype is hearing how real shops are using it – what’s working, what’s not.”

Looking ahead, Ray predicts AI will soon interpret older 2D drawings and complex 3D models, evaluate risk, and recommend optimal production strategies.

Pictured: How Paperless Parts’ BOM Builder makes automatic suggestions to speed up the quoting process.

Paperless Parts with Langford at an onsite with Metal-Tech Industries. Images:

Parts

EVENTS: INDO PACIFIC 2025

Subsea, surface, air and space feature in conference program for Indo Paciﬁc 2025

Indo Paciﬁc 2025 will bring together defence, industry and academic leaders to tackle the latest opportunities and challenges in naval capability, uncrewed systems and maritime engineering.

While the Royal Australian Navy Sea Power Conference highlights strategy and capability desires at this year’s 2025 Indo Paciﬁc International Maritime Exposition in November, Australia’s industry and peak bodies in uncrewed systems and maritime engineering will deliver their own specialist conferences on opportunities and challenges in their ﬁelds.

In addition, The Hub, Indo Paciﬁc’s own curated presentation opportunity, is back for 2025 with a new line up of sessions designed to spark ideas and build connections.

Set for November 4-6 at Sydney’s International Convention Centre, Indo Paciﬁc 2025 is the region’s commercial maritime and naval defence exposition, connecting Australian and international defence, industry, government, academia and technology leaders, in the national interest. The event creates engagement opportunities through:

• Specialist conferences and symposia, including the International Maritime Conference (IMC) and Royal Australian Navy Sea Power Conference.

• A world-class industry exhibition showcasing innovative companies from prime contractors to start-ups.

• Business-to-business (B2B) and business-togovernment (B2G) networking programs.

• Delegation engagement programs with senior defence, industry, and government representatives.

• Small-business and export development initiatives.

• A prestigious innovation awards program.

• Careers and skilling programs.

Indo Paciﬁc is supported by the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Government Department of Defence and the New South Wales State Government. As a platform for engagement, the event provides a venue for the conferences of major Australian industry and defence organisations.

International Maritime Conference

As part of Indo Paciﬁc 2025, a brace of Australia’s engineering and commercial shipping experts will cover challenges in ship design, fuels and safety in the IMC International Maritime Conference.

Delivered by the The Royal Institution of Naval Architects, The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology and Engineers Australia, the IMC International Maritime Conference has been a pillar of the Indo Paciﬁc event, renowned as the source of innovation and research across naval architecture, marine engineering and maritime technology in both defence and commercial shipping. The headline conference subjects reflect today’s

Present at Indo Pacific 2025 will be business-to-business and business-togovernment networking programs.

Indo Pacific 2025 is the region’s commercial maritime and naval defence exposition.

Images: AMDA

changing maritime world, including nuclear propulsion, uncrewed surface vessel development, shipyard capability, margins as design metrics and cyber security for vessels at sea.

Keynote speakers will include the chief of the Platforms Division of the Department of Defence Australia, Professor Scott Tyo, ASC’s chief nuclear and capability ofﬁcer Alex Walsh and Australian Maritime College principal Mal Wise.

But IMC is also known for delving into detail on lesser known, but often critical subjects. This year’s conference will cover test analysis of corroded flight deck tie-down ﬁttings, stern tube sacriﬁcial sleeve inserts and the hydrodynamic loads on an underwater vehicle operating in a shallow channel. It will investigate evaluation of hydrodynamic impacts of aft control surface positioning in submarine design, additive manufacturing in defence and numerical simulation of ship dynamic motion and structural response.

Engineers Australia CEO Romilly Madew (AO FTSE HonFIEAust EngExec) will open the IMC conference on Tuesday 4 November. Prior to her appointment as Engineers Australia CEO in 2022, Madew was CEO of Infrastructure Australia where she was responsible for overseeing the organisation’s role in helping governments prioritise projects and reforms to serve communities. Madew served as CEO of the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) for 13 years. In acknowledgment of her contribution to Australia’s sustainable building movement, she was awarded an Order of Australia in 2019.

She will be followed by keynote speaker Walsh from ASC, which has been selected as Sovereign Submarine Partner in Australia’s conventionally

armed, nuclear-powered AUKUS submarine program. Walsh is a degree-qualiﬁed nuclear engineer who brings close to 40 years’ experience in the nuclear submarine and power sectors to his role. With senior expertise in engineering, project management and managing nuclear commissioning, safety and licencing, Walsh has worked in the UK, France and Australia. At BAE Systems his roles included Head of Nuclear Construction (leading the team constructing the reactors for the UK’s Astute class submarines) and Head of Nuclear Safety Engineering, leading nuclear authorisation and the safety case for Astute fuelling, commissioning and power range testing.

Autonomous and uncrewed

While engineers cover the gamut of vessels and systems, the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) will concentrate on autonomous and remotely operated air and sea vehicles. This is becoming a hot topic for naval operations from cargo delivery to covert surveillance and long-range strike.

With a wide-ranging brief, the AAUS Autonomy in the Maritime Domain conference will pursue three main themes: operations (demand), technologies (enablers) and assurance (Capability integrity). These headline themes will encompass a range of discussion on air, surface, subsurface technologies and applications, the challenges and opportunities for uncrewed systems and safety considerations. They will explore the continuous evolution of operational concepts for autonomous maritime platforms, including Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), adjunct missile magazines, drone motherships, modular mission packages, counter-mine operations and electronic warfare.

The Hub: offering something different

Once again Indo Paciﬁc 2025 will feature The Hub, a platform for subject matter experts to present their vision, insights and solutions to the questions currently being posed by the region’s maritime community. With a three-day program of speakers, The Hub is integrated into the wider conference program and curated to ensure relevance to the audience. It is open to all trade day attendees. From maritime drones to nuclear submarine infrastructure, The Hub will tackle pressing topics facing the Indo Paciﬁc region. Hear directly from industry leaders, global experts and defence insiders as they unpack real-world challenges and opportunities across land, sea, air and space. Session highlight presentation topics include:

• Industry and allies – beyond the pact (expanding market presence and forging strategic alliances in AUKUS and beyond).

• Joint seabed awareness at mission speed: advancing interoperability through secure data integration.

• Complexities in building and supporting nuclear submarine dock facilities.

• Unleashing the potential of maritime drones to optimise maritime security.

• Agile defence technology to address emerging threats in the Indo Paciﬁc.

• No tender, no delay: your gateway to the U.S. Defence market in the Indo Paciﬁc.

• Navigating the rising threat of spooﬁng in maritime.

• Dual use tech in AUKUS pillar one.

Whether you’re focused on capability, innovation, workforce or partnerships, The Hub delivers the conversations that matter.

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) is undergoing its greatest capability expansion in decades, with investments in nuclear-powered submarines, advanced surface combatants, long-range strike capabilities, and autonomous maritime systems.

Therefore, Indo Paciﬁc 2025 will be a focus for conversation on and around these issues, and the ability of Australian industry to maximise local provision of the required capability.

“It’s promising to be a great event,” said Justin Giddings, CEO of Indo Paciﬁc organiser AMDA Foundation. “Sydney is a great venue. It was a sell out last time and it will be a sell out this time.

“It’s a great opportunity for not just Australian exhibitors, but others from around the world, to really get in front of the people who are really making some big capital investment decisions.

“Indo Paciﬁc is by far the largest maritime event in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the largest in the world. And when you look at the investment the Australian government is making in maritime, industry needs to be here.”

For more information see www.indopaciﬁcexpo.com.au

Indo Pacific 2025 will include specialist conferences and symposia, including the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Conference.

SERVICE SHOWCASE: DATAFACTORY

Why it makes sense to repair servo drives

When a servo drive fails, replacing it might seem simple – but repair can often be the smarter, less complicated solution according to Datafactory.

An electronic servo drive is a complex box controlling high performance electric motors. Industrial systems are dependent on electronic servo drives. They are everywhere. For example, they can be used to power up a CNC router or a robotic arm. They can drive a conveyor in a warehouse. They can even make the Mars Rover move around.

Despite the crucial role they play no one pays much attention to them until they fail.

But a failed servo drive is not really a problem, is it? There is no point of repairing it. You simply contact the drive maker and order a new one, right? Well not exactly. Very often an attempt to replace a failed servo drive is the start of a long journey full of surprises, however not always pleasant ones.

Firstly, you discover that the failed servo drive is obsolete. What’s more it has been obsolete for a few years and the company that used to make them does not hold any of them in stock anymore. They have a new model of course but it is not compatible with your control system.

Nor is it compatible with your servo motor. In fact, you would have to buy a new servo motor, new gearbox and employ a ﬁtter to make a plate to mount the new gear required. But that is not all. A new drive comes with entirely different ﬁrmware (the software DNA of your servo unit).

Therefore, even if you successfully negotiate the servo motor issues, control system interface issues and quite often networking issues, you would still have to transcribe the servo drive

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application program, by for example re-writing all parameters in the manner that your new servo drive can understand.

You have to read the manual of the old servo drive. You also have to read the manual of the new servo drive. You might even have to employ a specialist to do it for you.

It ﬁnally occurs to you that if you decide to repair the old servo drive rather than source a new one, then you would not have to deal with any of the above outlined issues at all.

But who could repair it? This is the question you should have asked yourself in the ﬁrst place.

Contact Datafactory:

26/41-49 Norcal Road, Nunawading, Victoria 3131, Australia

Telephone: 03 9874 7737

E-mail: sales@datafactory.com.au Servo drives power CNCs, robots, conveyors –even the Mars Rover – making them vital to industrial systems.

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MA LINK

MaXXlink is an intelligent solution that unites CAD and ERP systems, closing the critical integration gap that slows manufacturing output and creates risk.

Unlike generic connectors, MaXXlink is purpose-built for manufacturing and engineered to integrate disparate or siloed environments—such as SolidWorks, Inventor, Epicor, and MYOB Advanced—without disrupting established workflows. It transforms engineering BOMs into fully validated manufacturing BOMs with precision, speed, and complete traceability.

Purpose-built for Australian manufacturing environments:

Visual BOM Interface — Restructure assemblies with drag-and-drop speed

CAD to E-BOM Conversion — Native compatibility with SolidWorks and Inventor

E-BOM to M-BOM Mapping — Get from design to production-ready structures in minutes

Pull non-modelled parts from your ERP — Drag and drop these parts with full traceability

Local ERP Integration — Works with Epicor, MYOB Advanced, and custom systems

Full Change Control — Built-in version tracking, approval workflows, and audit trails

A clever combination of BOGE and INMATEC for precise laser cutting

BOGE and INMATEC’s two-stage nitrogen and hydrogen generation system enables manufacturers to produce ultra-pure nitrogen on-site for laser cutting, cutting process costs while improving quality and sustainability.

Laser cutting has become established as a precise procedure in industrial metal processing. Maximum material quality requires a stable inert gas atmosphere in the form of pure nitrogen. INMATEC provides a solution that allows an energy-efﬁcient and economical nitrogen selfsupply on-site that suits a company’s requirements: a combination of the PNK nitrogen generator and the H2KAT hydrogen catalytic converter. This solution, the INMATEC Duo, helps save up to 70 per cent during metal processing using nitrogen and hydrogen.

Laser cutting is indispensable in many branches –especially in areas where metals and other materials are cut, shaped or processed precisely and flexibly. The process is used in the automobile industry, mechanical engineering, aerospace and electronics manufacturing. The increasing demand for laser cutting is based on advancing machine technologies, which allow faster and more precise processing of materials. During the cutting process, a stable inert gas atmosphere is essential to guarantee highquality processing.

Optimising laser cutting with ultra-pure nitrogen

Typically, nitrogen is used as an inert gas during laser cutting. The colourless and odourless gas prevents the metal from encountering oxygen along the cutting edge, thus ensuring delicate contours and clean cutting edges. If the purity of the nitrogen used is too low, the material will oxidise, creating

annealing colours, which subsequently must be removed with great effort. Cutting systems therefore require nitrogen with a high purity level of 5.0, i.e. 99.999 per cent.

The gas quality has a major influence on the processing result. The purer the nitrogen, the lower the effort during subsequent re-working and therefore also lower energy consumption during processing.

Efﬁcient on-site nitrogen generation

The combination of PNK nitrogen generator and H2KAT hydrogen catalytic converter uses a twostage procedure to generate nitrogen on-site. First the IMT PM LASER PSA system (Pressure Swing Adsorption) ﬁlters nitrogen from the surrounding air. Then, the H2KAT hydrogen catalytic converter removes the residual oxygen by converting it into water vapour.

This creates the aforementioned nitrogen purity of up to 99.999 per cent – at up to 50 per cent lower energy consumption compared with conventional methods. This solution forms the basis for numerous industrial uses and can be expanded purposefully with speciﬁc applications, depending on the industry.

Energy-efﬁcient and economical N2 generation

On-site nitrogen generation reduces operating costs. In addition to saving money on transport and storage, costs during the cutting process reduce by up to 70 per cent. This is a beneﬁt for manufacturing companies requiring a substantial gas supply.

Companies that use nitrogen generators on-site beneﬁt from a steady gas supply and an improved carbon footprint, while keeping quality standards high. Those who supply their own power can save up to 90 per cent of costs with an INMATEC nitrogen generator.

For example, the system can store excess energy generated by a photovoltaic system. It then uses the energy in the form of nitrogen during the laser cutting process if needed. This allows virtually free production and more efﬁcient use of selfgenerated power.

An acquisition breeding success

With its systems for the onsite generation of gases, INMATEC GaseTechnologie GmbH has a global presence with its headquarters in Herrsching. The company has been developing, manufacturing and delivering nitrogen and oxygen generators since 1993, and has been part of the BOGE Group since August 2023.

Reliable, clean compressed air has been BOGE’s trademark for more than 115 years. The quality and efﬁciency of the company’s compressors and compressed air solutions have led it to enjoy the trust of more than 100,000 users in 120 different countries.

BOGE Australia imports and distributes BOGE high-quality German machines, spare parts and all ancillary equipment through a network of trained sales and service partners throughout Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Fiji.

By combining INMATEC’s gas generation technology with BOGE’s proven compressed air systems, manufacturers can achieve precise, costeffective and sustainable laser cutting at the highest quality standards.

The combination of PNK nitrogen generator and H2KAT hydrogen catalytic converter uses a two-stage procedure to produce high-purity nitrogen on-site.

INMATEC GaseTechnologie GmbH has been part of the BOGE Group since August 2023.

Images: Boge

ROBOTIC WELDING

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION

Bringing new life to automation

APS Industrial has unveiled the new Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 – a compact PLC aimed at modernising automation for the manufacturing sector.

In Australia’s growing industrial automation landscape, APS Industrial and Siemens are solidifying their long-standing partnership with the launch of the next-generation SIMATIC S71200 G2, designed to meet the rising demand for efﬁcient control systems. The S7-1200 G2 is a nextgeneration programmable logic controller (PLC) that automates machinery and processes by receiving inputs, executing logic-based instructions, and controlling outputs.

The S7-1200 G2 builds on more than a decade of success with the original S7-1200 “shoebox PLC” by introducing advancements while reducing the overall footprint by twenty ﬁ ve percent. The updated platform is suited to industries where space, precision, and safety are key. This includes food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals, packaging, and material handling.

“The S7-1200 G2 brings additional value with enhanced communications and efﬁcient motion control, plus pre-set function libraries that customers can download and use to get up and running much faster,” said Automation and Drives business manager at APS Industrial, Steven Sischy. “The focus will be on industries where you have conveyors, packaging lines or ﬁlling capabilities.”

For manufacturers considering an upgrade from earlier models, the S7-1200 G2 notable benefits in speed, connectivity and space efficiency emerging from a smaller footprint. Siemens has overhauled the PLC’s architecture, also offering benefits in system integration and programmed with TIA Portal.

“We’re moving from seven different CPUs to just four – two standard CPUs and two safety versions –which makes stocking and customer support much simpler,” said Sischy. “Expandablity is increased and we can handle more PROFINET I/O. Cybersecurity is native to the system, and for the ﬁrst time we’ve introduced NFC, so with the right credentials you can walk up to a machine with your iPhone or Android and diagnose faults instantly – it’s a major step forward in efﬁciency.”

Rising to evolving industry needs

The advancement of the S7-1200 G2 is a targeted approach, with the system aligned with the four pillars: performance scalability, flexible machine safety, efﬁcient motion, and increased data

transparency. One of the most important pillars of the S7-1200 G2 is improvements in performance and scalability, with new units being 25 per cent smaller than the current range.

“This means a reduced footprint, allowing us to address up to 31 PROFINET devices across the network, compared to just 16 previously,” said Sischy.

Flexible safety features have also received a boost. The G2 has doubled its support for system boards and now includes dual PROFINET channels – separating machine communication from IoT or cloud connections. This helps support a clearer division between IT and OT systems.

“With flexible machine safety, we’ve gone from supporting one system board to two, giving customers more options,” said Sischy. “On the communications side, the previous generation only supported one PROFINET channel, but now one can connect to IoT or cloud-based systems, while the other links directly to devices on the machine.

“Another important change is that customers no longer need to pay for additional software licences if they have a fail-safe CPU – it’s now included as standard in the base software package.”

Perhaps the largest enhancement of the S71200 G2 is in motion control. Where the earlier generation lacked integrated motion capabilities, the new system brings this functionality directly into the CPU, improving real-time control and synchronisation.

“Power dissipation reduced by 20 per cent for CPU 1212 and 30 per cent for CPU 1214 compared to predecessor products. Product performance increased by more than 100 per cent

with a comparable weight (avg. increase <15 per cent) for all variants of CPU 1212 and CPU 1214 compared to its predecessor” said Sischy. The new system also improves data visibility. With integrated Near Field Communication (NFC), operators can instantly access diagnostics wirelessly, reducing downtime and allowing quicker maintenance interventions.

An ongoing commitment

Alongside the introduction of the S7-1200 G2, APS Industrial and Siemens have committed to helping manufacturers with a smooth transition. This includes the offering of standard functions, motion control libraries and detailed application notes.

“From start to ﬁnish, we provide everything – how to get started, how to connect, the conﬁgurations, and even the program – so the whole experience is much smoother and more user-friendly,” said Sischy.

While the technology is newly launched, APS Industrial has already seen early adoption in food and beverage applications and is working on a large water industry Remote Terminal Unit project. Sischy said that alongside these cases, the new system represents a journey into uncharted waters for APS Industrial and Siemens.

“Our key focus going forward remains on market segments where we haven’t been strong before –particularly OEM liquid ﬁlling applications. We now have the capability to pursue those opportunities,” said Sischy.

With the S7-1200 G2, APS Industrial and Siemens aim to empower manufacturers with a smarter, faster, and more transparent automation platform, ready for Industry 4.0 and beyond.

The S7-1200 G2 is aligned with the four pillars of performance scalability, flexible machine safety, efficient motion, and increased data transparency.

MANUFACTURERS LIST

Exclusive insights into the top manufacturers in Australia.

100

MANUFACTURERS

Top 100 manufacturers list reveals key industry trends and revenue drivers

The Top 100 Manufacturers List, based on 2024 ﬁnancials, highlights Australia’s leading producers and how they’re navigating growth, volatility and global supply challenges.

IBISWorld’s 2025 Top 100 Manufacturers List showcases Australia’s leading producers across 62 manufacturing industries: from food and beverage to building materials, chemicals and transport equipment. Together, these manufacturers generated approximately $376 billion in revenue in 2024, up 5.3 per cent on the previous year’s $357 billion.

This growth was underpinned by strong pharmaceutical exports, surging demand from defence and infrastructure projects, and price-driven gains across key commodities like cement, fertiliser and meat.

Key takeaways

• IBISWorld’s 2025 Top 100 Manufacturers List comprises the highest-revenue-earning enterprises from across 62 industries within Australia’s manufacturing sector, with a combined revenue of $376 billion.

• Pharmaceutical product manufacturing in Australia prospered through targeted R&D spending, with manufacturers like CSL expanding their biologics capacity and forging global partnerships.

• Iron and steel manufacturing slumped and is set to continue slowing down as the top iron oreexporting nation, China, tends towards high-grade green steel as part of its efforts to reach carbon neutrality by 2060.

• Investments in AI and automation in the meat processing industry helped lift revenue by enhancing operational efﬁciency.

The Pharmaceutical Product Manufacturing industry once again reafﬁrmed its dominance, remaining the most represented industry in this year’s list, with six companies placing in the top 100. CSL Limited rose to third place, beneﬁting from strong patient demand for immunoglobulin (Ig) products through its CSL Behring segment.

While pharmaceutical manufacturers saw gains, some of the list’s largest petroleum producers moved in the opposite direction. Although Ampol Limited (1st) and BP Australia Investments Pty Ltd (4th) held their spots in the top 4, both experienced revenue declines, down 7.5 per cent and 4.1 per

cent, respectively. Falling crude oil prices and ongoing domestic supply disruptions weighed down their performances, and maintenance at Ampol’s Lytton reﬁnery also hampered its performance, contributing to a 12 per cent drop in its production volumes to 5.3 billion litres.

This year’s list highlights how commodity price swings, automation advances and other economic headwinds continue to shape Australia’s manufacturing landscape.

Biggest mover: How Pﬁzer more than doubled its revenue

Pﬁzer Australia Holdings Pty Limited (67th) achieved the most growth of industries across Australia’s manufacturing sector, with its revenue skyrocketing 164.4 per cent from the previous year. The transfer of assets from its related party, Pﬁzer PFE Australia Pty Ltd, boosted its sales revenue, driving this growth.

The company’s expansion of its product portfolio and digital capabilities through acquisitions of various pharmaceutical assets, particularly ResApp Health Limited in late 2022, propelled it forwards. These acquisitions supported its disease prevention initiatives and the development of new and improved medicines and vaccines.

Strategic investments in mRNA vaccine platforms, digital health tools and high-demand respiratory products enabled Pﬁzer Australia to secure a strong position as a major performer in this year’s edition of the list.

Looking ahead, Pﬁzer Australia’s growth trajectory will likely be shaped by the commercial rollout of new products, like its RSV vaccine, and its expanding network of digital health partnerships. This forward momentum is reflective of broader trends across the pharmaceutical sector.

Pharma’s growth engine: R&D spend and product demand

Australia’s pharmaceutical product manufacturing industry continues to be shaped by strong demand for high-value therapies, particularly in immunology and blood products. In 2024, the industry beneﬁted from rising patient demand, ageing demographics and sustained investment in research and development.

Backed by the Federal Government’s R&D Tax Incentive, ﬁrms are intensifying their focus on clinical trials and biologics development. These efforts are paying off – the industry’s six top-ranked companies generated a combined $26.7 billion in revenue. CSL was a standout performer in 2024, placing third overall on the Top 100 list.

TOP 100 2025

MANUFACTURERS LIST

What’s driving growth in pharma?

Pharmaceutical companies in Australia have beneﬁted from two structural trends: surging R&D investment and demand driven by an ageing population. By 30 June 2024, Australians aged 65 and over comprised approximately 17 per cent of the population, up from 12 per cent three decades earlier. This demographic trend is projected to intensify, with that share forecast to reach 24 per cent by 2064-65. An ageing population is fuelling demand for treatments targeting age-related conditions, immunodeﬁciencies, neurological disorders and cardiovascular diseases, reinforcing R&D-driven growth in the pharmaceutical product manufacturing industry.

The Federal Government’s Research and Development Tax Incentive (RDTI), introduced in 2020, continues to drive innovation across Australia’s pharmaceutical product manufacturing industry. The scheme encourages eligible companies to undertake clinical trials and other R&D activities by offering

generous tax offsets, which help improve proﬁt margins and accelerate product development.

CSL: A standout performer in 2024

CSL Limited, one of Australia’s largest biopharmaceutical companies, has beneﬁted from this environment. The company spent US$1.4 billion towards Research and Development in 2023-24. CSL’s focus on R&D has enabled it to develop innovative medicines like immunoglobulin products, which treat various immunological and neurological diseases. Heightened global demand for the immunoglobulin (Ig) therapies produced by its CSL Behring division led to a 14 per cent uplift in the segment’s sales revenue, contributing to the 11.9 per cent revenue growth CSL recorded in 2024. This positive performance reflects CSL’s ongoing investment in R&D, which remains central to its strategy of addressing unmet medical needs and advancing treatments for complex immunological and neurological conditions.

The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry has increased its spending towards Research and Development activities, which accounted for 31 per cent of the total expenditure during 2022-23. This R&D intensity reflects the industry’s reliance on innovation to develop high-value therapies and maintain strong proﬁt margins across patented, specialty products.

In contrast to more commodity-exposed industries, pharmaceutical product manufacturers beneﬁt from stronger pricing power and robust export opportunities. The industry’s consistent growth is underpinned by rising demand for biologics, vaccines and therapeutic treatments, along with structural drivers like an ageing population and Australia’s focus on sovereign medical capability. A continual commitment to innovation, particularly in biologics, is likely to support both CSL’s performance and the pharmaceutical product manufacturing industry’s ongoing growth in the years ahead.

Iron and steel revenue slides amid global shifts

Weakened global demand, falling iron ore prices and a shift towards green steel have hit Australia’s iron smelting and steel manufacturing industry, with many companies experiencing an overall revenue decline. BlueScope Steel Limited (6th), Liberty InfraBuild Limited (19th) and Liberty Primary Metals Australia Pty Ltd (31st) recorded revenue drops of 6.2 per cent, 12.3 per cent and 2.4 per cent, respectively.

China is Australia’s major exporting nation for iron ore, accounting for approximately 84 per cent of the total exports. Export volumes to China rose two per cent in the ﬁrst nine months of 2024, reaching 514 million tonnes. However, this increase masks a broader shift in China’s demand away from Australia’s lower-grade iron ore as China increasingly favours higher-grade ore from competitors like Brazil and Guinea. This transition supports the Chinese Government’s ‘dual carbon goals,’ which aim to peak steel industry carbon emissions before

2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The effects of slowing demand from China have, in turn, impacted iron ore prices, which were down 10 per cent during 2024 and sit at US$96.16 per tonne as at 1 June 2025.

Australia’s iron smelting and steel manufacturing industry felt the negative impacts of stagnant demand from China, its top export destination, as part of the shift towards green-steel practices. This led to falls in sales revenue, particularly in international segments across companies like BlueScope Steel and Liberty Primary Metals Australia.

Trade tensions add pressure to steelmakers

Australia’s producers have also come under pressure from the United States, with President Donald Trump reinstating and expanding Section 232 tariffs in mid-2025. Steel import duties doubled from 25 per cent to 50 per cent, while aluminium tariffs also surged. BlueScope Steel’s US subsidiary

beneﬁted as local prices rose, but Australian-made exports were caught in the crossﬁre. The Australian Government has so far failed to secure an exemption, raising concerns for manufacturers like Liberty Primary Metals Australia and InfraBuild, which have operations or supply chains exposed to the US market. These trade tensions are just one part of a broader wave of geopolitical instability that’s reshaping global supply chains and pricing dynamics for Australian manufacturers.

War, trade and defence spending shift manufacturing dynamics

Ongoing conflicts have driven unprecedented swings in prices for commodities, particularly steel, aluminium and energy feedstocks. Meanwhile, USChina tech and trade disputes continue to disrupt semiconductor and electronics supply chains, forcing Australian manufacturers to contend with longer lead times and higher landed costs.

These dynamics have fed directly into revenue volatility among the top 100 metals, machinery

TOP 100 2025

MANUFACTURERS LIST

and chemical manufacturers. Caterpillar Holdings Australia Pty Ltd (73rd), a supplier of heavy industrial equipment, recorded a 16.1 per cent drop in revenue in 2024, while Southern Steel Group Pty Ltd (57th), exposed to steel price fluctuations, saw its revenue fall 13.5 per cent over the year.

Australia’s ramp-up in defence procurement under AUKUS and broader force modernisation programs has buoyed homegrown contractors. BAE Systems Australia Holdings Limited (40th) and Thales Australia Holdings Pty Ltd (55th) feature in the Top 100, both posting double-digit growth as contracts for submarines, ship patrol vessels and electronic warfare systems flowed through. Given the multidecade nature of Australia’s defence investment pipeline, including the AUKUS nuclear submarine program and expanding sovereign shipbuilding targets, growth in this segment is set to be sustained well into the next decade.

While external demand drivers like defence spending continue to shape some manufacturers’ performance, internal efﬁciency strategies (especially automation) are becoming just as critical.

Cutting costs, raising output: AI’s role in manufacturing

Various enterprises across Australia’s manufacturing sector have invested in AI and automation initiatives, aiming to optimise their operations and reduce expenses associated with employee wages. In particular, the meat processing industry has capitalised on automation within its operations, including two well-performing manufacturers, Industry Park Pty Ltd (9th) (trading as JBS Australia) and Thomas Foods International Consolidated Pty Limited (26th), which achieved revenue boosts of 5.6 per cent and 18.2 per cent, respectively.

Thomas Foods International leads automation gains

Adopting automation to improve efﬁ ciency while reducing operational expenses has been a common trend in the meat processing industry, and this has been the case for top meat processors like Thomas Foods

International. The company’s new Murray Bridge processing plant, completed in May 2023, features Dematic’s Multishuttle Meat Buffer and Pallet Automated Storage and Retrieval System, enabling stock transfer using automated guided vehicles that can navigate frozen and chilled environments.

By streamlining operations and creating a sustainable local supply chain method through automation, Thomas Foods International, along with other similar meat processing entities, has gained momentum in the industry, helping to lift proﬁ t margins by cutting costs and mitigating labour risks.

As automation and AI implementation ramp up across the meat processing industry, companies pursuing cost-cutting efforts will continue to benefi t from improved effi ciency by streamlining operations, leading to higher throughput. Companies like JBS Australia and Thomas Foods International are beginning to see tangible benefi ts from their investments in automation.

Broader industry adoption remains uneven

Looking across the industry, JBS Australia is trialling automated beef-boning systems under the LEAP4Beef program at its Brooklyn facility in Victoria, marking a step towards robotic precision in meat processing. Similarly, Teys Australia Pty Ltd (29th) has invested in automated inventory management and robotics at its $100 million Port of Brisbane distribution centre.

Meanwhile, Midfield Group (58th) has implemented a first-of-its-kind back-end automation system that handles boxed products all the way to pallet without manual intervention. These moves reflect a growing industrywide pivot to automation to boost efficiency, enhance traceability and reduce labour dependency. Although many companies are beginning to ramp up their investments in automation, several smaller processors have yet to adopt these technologies, highlighting ongoing variance in capacity and scale.

Final word

The top 100 manufacturers in Australia in 2024, spanning 62 industries, had varying performances. Pharmaceutical companies once again came out on top, thriving off the support of increased R&D investments that enable the development of new and improved medicines to treat various diseases. Given Australia’s ageing population, the increased demand for these products comes as no surprise.

In the meat processing industry, manufacturers’ strong adoption of AI and automation processes, along with investments in research and development initiatives, led to soaring revenue growth over the year. The meat processing industry is increasingly turning to automation and digitalisation to navigate labour shortages and rising operational costs, with several players – like JBS Australia, Teys Australia and Thomas Foods International – investing in robotic systems, automated handling lines and smart inventory infrastructure in recent years. These

innovations are helping reduce reliance on manual labour while boosting efﬁciency and traceability across the supply chain.

Iron smelting and steel manufacturers experienced revenue falls due to the global transition towards green steel practices, which has reduced demand for Australia’s low-grade iron ore. This decline in demand has placed sustained downward pressure on iron ore prices, contributing to revenue slumps for companies like BlueScope Steel and InfraBuild. The iron smelting and steel manufacturing industry is at a critical juncture: traditionally an exporter of bulk, low-carbon steel, it is having to modernise rapidly or risk being outcompeted. While green steel technologies offer a promising future, progress remains slow, and costs high.

IBISWorld’s 2025 Top 100 Manufacturers List was compiled by Joel Lewis, with the report authored by Joshua Campbell and edited by Sam McLeod.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Printing quality in food manufacturing

Abhishek Banerjee from Monash Food Innovation shares how the centre uses the Stratasys J55 3D printer, backed by Objective3D, to drive faster, smarter packaging and product prototypes in the food and FMCG sectors.

Beginning as a joint venture in 2013, the Monash Food Innovation Centre (MFI) helps agrifood businesses develop new products and packaging, conduct consumer research, validate ideas and execute strategic market launches. Initially established as a collaboration between Mondelez International and the Victorian Government, the hub has since evolved and is now a part of Monash University, taking ideas from inception through to commercialisation.

“Once we became part of Monash University, our core mission became to be the doorway for industry to access the university’s world-class research and education capabilities,” said Abhishek Banerjee, design and innovation manager at Monash Food Innovation.

Located at Monash University’s Clayton campus, MFI operates as a “one-stop shop” for FMCG innovation – supporting SMEs to major players like Nestlé, Cadbury, Asahi, and CUB. The lab applies a proven methodology and advanced facilities –including industrial kitchens, prototyping labs, virtual store simulation, and eye tracking – to reduce risk and accelerate commercialisation.

“We focus on human-centric design – taking the consumer journey into account at every step and investing in tools that make this possible,” Banerjee said.

A tool for visualisation

One of the key technologies the hub leverages is additive manufacturing. It enables faster prototyping of food products and packaging, helping businesses visualise, test, and reﬁne concepts before committing to full-scale production. This accelerates timelines, reduces risk, and lowers costs.

“Packaging is our bread and butter when it comes to prototyping – creating high-ﬁdelity mock-ups using an advanced prototyping hub that houses every type of machinery needed to develop anything from primary packs to functional prototypes,” Banerjee explained. “We’ve designed and 3D printed intricate confectionery moulds for companies like Cadbury and the National Confectionery Company, which were tested on real production lines before tooling.

“It’s a lot less expensive to commit to a 3D print than it is to commit to tooling, and that’s been a massive part of what this hub offers – helping partners de-risk the process.”

3D printing has been part of the hub since its inception, and Banerjee said it’s now embedded as a core tool for prototype testing, design, and innovation. At the centre of that capability is MFI’s access to Stratasys 3D printers, facilitated by a long-term partnership with Objective3D. This access has seen the hub use legacy models to the current, Stratasys J55 PolyJet 3D printer, a system that Banerjee described as a “game changer” for its speed, affordability, ease of post-processing and ability to print in full colour and multi-materials.

“The J55 has allowed us to produce incredibly realistic, gold-standard prototypes, which has been critical not only for us but also for our clients trying to visualise products before commercialisation,” he said. “Having this capability in-house means we’re no longer reliant on external consultancies – we can now deliver high-quality visualisation as part of a fully vertically integrated innovation process.”

One recent project where the J55 proved invaluable involved ‘The Man Shake’, a protein powder brand expanding into ready-to-drink beverages. When the company ﬁrst pitched to Woolworths, they faced resistance because they only had a flat label to present. MFI used the Stratasys printer to create a highly realistic bottle mock-up, helping to secure the product’s listing.

“We took their label and the bottle they planned to use, modelled it up, and 3D printed an exact mockup with the label applied – once the Woolworths buyer saw it, they were in stores within about two

weeks,” Banerjee said. “This printer has really helped us visualise ﬁnished products where category managers can actually hold and assess the exact look and feel.”

Complementing these 3D operations is MFI’s virtual shelf visualisation tool, which leverages its in-house VR environment. This lets the team digitally position new packaging designs alongside competitors in a simulated retail setting to evaluate how well they stand out.

“Context is everything in retail – a prototype might look great on a boardroom table, but the real test is how it stands out on a crowded supermarket shelf with over 30,000 products,” said Banerjee. “When manufacturers use our tools, they’re working with the same software the retailers use, allowing them to validate design and strategy decisions with real data, including virtual eye-tracking studies.”

Additive innovation built on trust

The Stratasys J55 PolyJet 3D printer is at the core of MFI’s operations due to a long-standing relationship with Objective3D – an Australian company providing 3D printing solutions across sectors including manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, and education. Banerjee said this relationship dates back nearly 12 years to when the hub ﬁrst invested in 3D printing.

“The partnership has evolved beyond just being a supplier or service provider – Objective3D is now a key strategic partner of Monash Food Innovation

Additive manufacturing at MFI speeds up prototyping of food products and packaging.

going forward,” he said. “A major milestone was the co-purchase of the Stratasys J55, with Objective3D, and Monash investing together to support innovation and training in 3D printing.”

Banerjee noted that this collaboration would continue to underpin MFI’s commercial innovation offering – helping bridge the gap between design and large-scale manufacturing and strengthening the product development pipeline.

“Monash aims to lead executive training on using 3D printing in industry, while Objective3D continues to service our machines, supply materials, and provide essential training,” he said.

The changing dynamics in food and FMCG

According to Banerjee, additive manufacturing has even greater potential for future impact across the food and FMCG sectors. He anticipates that 3D printing will evolve beyond small-batch production and prototyping toward mass customisation and decentralised, on-demand manufacturing.

“I believe 3D-printing will evolve from prototyping into a viable manufacturing method, as it already is in areas like metal parts,” he said. “With Australia’s fast-paced market, decentralised production has huge potential, and this partnership between the MFI, Monash University, and Objective3D is heading exactly in that direction.”

MFI’s virtual shelf visualisation tool uses an in-house VR environment to simulate real-world retail displays.

This dropper and bottle prototype is an example of the multi material and high fidelity work the Stratasys J55 PolyJet 3D printer allows for.

Compressing a century-long story

As Pulford Air & Gas celebrates 100 years in business, managing director Mark Hollingsworth, and national service manager Ben Smith, reflect on the company’s evolution – and how joining the global ELGi group is shaping the next century of growth.

As an Australian supplier since 1925, Pulford Air & Gas has delivered reliable compressed air solutions to manufacturing sectors including food and beverage, automotive, pharmaceuticals, electronics, mining and metal fabrication. Now part of ELGi’s global OEM network, Pulford operates across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, with ELGi’s support extending through channel partners across Australia and internationally.

“Wherever there’s a compressor, Pulford can be involved – we started small as a family-owned business and have grown our products and business signiﬁcantly,” said managing director of ELGi Equipments Australia and Pulford Air & Gas, Mark Hollingsworth.

Currently, the business is in its strongest position yet – ﬁtting for a year in which it celebrates its 100th anniversary.

“Any company reaching 100 years is pretty signiﬁcant, especially one that has mastered through world wars , the depression, global ﬁnancial crisis and other various challenges – that’s impressive,” said Hollingsworth. “With ELGi’s global platform behind us, we’re entering a new era, building on our legacy as we look forward to the next 100 years.”

Celebrating a century in compressed air

Reflecting on the anniversary, Hollingsworth said Pulford’s journey has been one of signiﬁcant growth – from its humble beginnings as a small

piston supplier to its acquisition by global market player ELGi and its expansion across the Australian market. While it is a story of growth, he said he is perhaps most proud that the company has remained true to its focus on service, support and innovation for its customers.

“Pulford’s footprint has grown from being initially Sydney-centric to covering the East Coast, with key channel partners across Australia, New Zealand, and export markets,” he said. “Alongside this growth, the company has stayed true to its vision. Selling a product is one thing, but the service and support throughout the customer’s journey is what drives repeat sales and long-term relationships built over time.”

On this century-long journey, Hollingsworth admitted there were numerous deﬁning moments, turning points and achievements the company as whole is proud of. One of these achievements came during the company’s foundation.

“We were probably the ﬁrst in Australia to make piston compressors locally. That’s where compressed air started for us,” said Hollingsworth. He also pointed to milestones like acquiring Advanced Air Compressors, expanding into the food and beverage sector and other large industries, and completing Australia’s largest altitude training equipment installation at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra. Next to these milestones, the company’s commitment to long-term values has been just as impressive.

“We don’t rush to be early adopters; we wait until we have the right innovative product and the right market strategy before launching,” he said. “Also, we have employees with incredible longevity – one has been with us for 45 years, and many others for 30 or more. People don’t stay if it’s not a great place to work, and that says a lot.”

Pulford’s evolution from hand built -manufacturing to becoming part of ELGi – one of the few fully vertically integrated global compressor manufacturers – has helped in this mission to prioritise customer experience.

“Technology is at our heart, but without customers, we don’t have a business, so delivering the right innovative products to meet their needs is central to everything we do,” said Hollingsworth.

An evolving product range

Over its 100-year history, Pulford has built everything from ammonia compressors for butcher shops to vacuum pumps and vapour traps. Today, it combines its own product offerings with ELGi’s portfolio to form a range of more than 400 compressor products, meeting the demands of today’s industry needs.

“Our product range extends beyond compressors to include all ancillary equipment such as dryers and ﬁltration systems, enabling us to offer full turnkey customised solutions” said Hollingsworth.

All types of servos and variable speed drives (Bosch, Okuma, Kollmorgen, Allen Bradley & more).

Pulford is now part of ELGi’s global OEM network

As a key offering of this portfolio, ELGi’s industrial air compressor range includes:

• Oil-lubricated rotary screw compressors (2.2–250 kW): Reliable, energy-efﬁcient, low oil carry-over, with VFD options and integrated dryers.

• Oil-free rotary screw compressors (11–450 kW): ISO Class 0 air for food, medical and electronics, with low lifecycle costs.

• Oil-lubricated reciprocating compressors (1–15 HP): Durable, economical piston units for intermittent or medium-duty use.

• All ancillary equipment to support above compressor range.

Oil-lubricated rotary screw compressors are the company’s primary offering, but it’s also growing particularly in the oil-free technology space.

Piston machines, while historically important and still having a place , are now being phased out in favour of more efﬁcient and advanced systems.

Pulford also designs customised on-site nitrogen generation systems using membrane or PSA technology. With more than 600 systems

deployed nationally, they are used across the automotive and mining sectors, improving safety and reducing logistics costs.

“Pulford saw an opportunity in nitrogen for tyre inflation, ﬁrst in the automotive sector and then by developing turnkey projects for mine sites,” said Hollingsworth.

These products are supported by ELGi’s unmatched warranty – including 10 years on airend and 5 years on the entire package of selected range– and the comfort of a national network of trained engineers.

Beyond equipment, Pulford puts strong emphasis on service in line with its customer ﬁrst values. As Hollingsworth puts it, the company doesn’t “just sell and install products; we also service and maintain them throughout their lifecycle”.

“Our service division is key to building trust and relationships, which then leads customers to expand or replace machines with us,” said national service manager Ben Smith. “The relationships that we build deﬁnitely hold us in good stead,

especially when trying to enter new markets or industries that aren’t being well served.”

Pulford’s service team includes technicians with decades of experience, trained to service both Pulford machines and other brands. Hollingsworth insisted that this experience has made Pulford Air & Gas a multi-branded expert across many different products, able to service not only its own machines but also competitors’ equipment.

On to the next century

Looking forward, Hollingsworth said Pulford – now operating within ELGi’s global framework – will continue to invest in sustainable growth, skilled talent, training and innovation.

“ELGi is a global player with a global platform, while Pulford has historically been Australiacentric – going forward, you’ll see more integration of the two brands,” he said. “As part of a global OEM, we’re no longer a small independent company; this change in direction presents a great opportunity to build and grow our market.”

Images:

Pulford Air & Gas operates across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, with ELGi’s support extending through channel partners across Australia and internationally.

RENEWABLE GAS

New reports highlight biomethane’s role in lowering industry emissions

Jemena and Australian manufacturers are backing biomethane as a potential drop-in renewable gas solution that could help to cut industrial emissions without disrupting existing operations or competitiveness.

Energy infrastructure company, Jemena, manages, operates, and owns key assets across eastern and northern Australia – including gas and electricity distribution networks and transmission pipelines. Notably, the company’s renewable gas projects aim to demonstrate the viability of renewable gas production, like biomethane, and the role it can play in helping industries and hard-to-abate sectors to cut emissions without sacriﬁcing operational efﬁciencies.

As a major part of its renewable gas initiatives, Jemena operates Australia’s ﬁrst biomethane injection plant in Malabar, Sydney, producing enough renewable gas annually to power the equivalent of 6,300 homes. The Malabar plant demonstrates the beneﬁts of biomethane production to industrial markets – including some of Australia’s most important manufacturers.

“Biomethane is a renewable gas that is 100 per cent compatible with existing infrastructure, industrial equipment and gas appliances. This makes it a suitable drop-in fuel that will help our critical industries decarbonise their operations,” said general manager of Renewable Gas at Jemena, Suzie Jakobovits. “We expect this will be particularly useful for manufacturers who currently rely on natural gas to produce many of the items we use every day.”

Recently, the company has welcomed major developments that will play a part in advancing renewable gas production projects, including changes to the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Scheme (NGERS). These changes have seen the scheme formally recognise the decarbonisation beneﬁts of biomethane and hydrogen delivered via gas infrastructure. Jakobovits said the change is a crucial step toward a potential renewable gas market.

“This is a signiﬁcant step in the development of Australia’s biomethane sector and provides businesses with the ability to purchase biomethane to reduce their Scope 1 emissions,” she said.

Two reports released in late July by Energy Networks Australia and Bioenergy Australia further validated biomethane’s industrial potential. The Bioenergy Australia report, Unlocking Renewable Natural Gas to Enhance Energy Security and Maintain Australia’s Manufacturing Sector, identiﬁes

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) as a cost-effective additional solution to help combat looming gas shortfalls. It also recognised RNG as a pathway for hard-to-abate sectors like steel, cement, and food processing to cut emissions.

The report estimated up to 400 petajoules of biomethane could be recovered annually – enough to meet 96 per cent of current east-coast gas demand. Bioenergy Australia CEO Shahana McKenzie called renewable gas “a critical missing piece in Australia’s clean energy transition”.

“If we want a Future Made in Australia, we have to give our manufacturers and industrial companies the tools to decarbonise without disruption, helping them to lower their carbon emissions whilst maintaining their global competitiveness,” she said.

While renewable gas is currently more expensive than conventional gas, the report notes that targeted policy – similar to that which drove down wind and solar costs – could unlock investment and lower prices.

“Australia may be at least two decades behind Europe on renewable gas,” McKenzie said. “But we have a unique opportunity to not just catch up but leap ahead, if we put the right policy settings in place.”

The companion report from Energy Networks Australia, Biomethane Opportunities to Decarbonise Australian Industry, reinforces that renewable gas is ready to scale but requires coordinated action. Together, the reports signal that renewable gas could be important for Australia’s net-zero goals, manufacturing resilience, and energy security.

Targeting net-zero packaging with biomethane

Several manufacturers, some of the country’s largest gas users, are already planning to adopt renewable gas as soon as practicably possible, speciﬁcally biomethane. Among them is Opal, a paper and packaging manufacturer operating across Australia and New Zealand. Opal’s general manager of environment and sustainability, David Jettner, said biomethane could serve as a drop-in solution for the company’s operations, which currently rely on natural gas for key manufacturing processes in paper and cardboard box production.

“With thermal energy needs at over 200°C, there are no alternative solutions that are readily available and cost effective,” he said.

Opal employs more than 3,000 people in a

Jemena’s renewable gas projects aim to help industries cut emissions without sacrificing efficiency or increasing costs.

Image: Jemena

INDUSTRIAL DATA SOLUTIONS

Powering smarter, leaner manufacturing

Central Innovation, now operating as a full-service software provider, has unveiled its Data Solutions Business Unit and MaXXlink – a new CAD/ERP/PLM/MRP integrator and BOM automation tool.

For over 35 years, Central Innovation (CI) has operated as a value-added reseller for engineering and architectural design solutions across Australia, New Zealand, and global markets. The company has primarily supported the Dassault Systèmes software ecosystem, including SolidWorks, and is also a developer of its own intellectual property.

“Our proprietary products include #Task (pronounced SharpTask), a batch processing and custom macro toolset that compliments SolidWorks, MaXXlink an intelligent solution that connects CAD systems with ERP and provides digitalised bill of materials management and CI Tools, a comprehensive toolset as an extension to Archicad” said Damien Davis, general manager of Data Solutions at CI.

Beyond this, CI has evolved into a consulting and data solutions house, providing expert

engineering and consulting services to industrial manufacturers and the broader engineering community. The company has capitalised on Industry 4.0 initiatives and aims to help manufacturers navigate and implement Industry 4.0 transformations.

“Our goal is to provide uniﬁed data solutions that help bridge gaps in siloed systems across the industry,” said Davis.

A future-proofed business unit

Davis explained that CI’s new Data Solutions Business Unit helps engineering and manufacturing businesses unlock the full potential of their operational and business data. With a team of engineers, consultants, and solution specialists, we enable clients to transition from fragmented legacy systems to uniﬁed data solutions.

“That transition delivers substantial returns on investment in operational efﬁciency, data visualisation, and the ability to use real-time information that impacts planning, scheduling, manufacturing, resourcing, and procurement,” said Davis.

“We aim to improve data visibility and accessibility, streamline production and planning systems, and enhance inventory and supply chain management,” said Davis. “We implement modern data management and integration solutions that close the gaps between ERP, ﬁnance, CRM, manufacturing, procurement, engineering and design.”

This business unit emerged from research and customer feedback on Industry 4.0 adoption. “72 per cent of manufacturing businesses in Australia and New Zealand cite barriers due to cost, complexity, and a lack of skills and knowledge”

MaXXlink is an intelligent standalone software solution that is prupose-built for BOM management. Image:

MaXXlink: A data solution standout

A highlight of CI’s Data Solutions Business Unit is MaXXlink.

MaXXlink is an intelligent standalone software solution, purpose-built for BOM management. In addition to its standalone functionality, MaXXlink also facilitates integration between CAD, ERP, and MRP systems, making it a seamless end to end solution for BOM management and product lifecycle collaboration. Filling the critical integration gap that often slows manufacturers down.

Unlike other connectors, MaXXlink integrates disparate or siloed systems—such as SolidWorks, Inventor, Epicor, and MYOB Advanced—and transforms E-BOMs into production-ready M-BOMs with precision and speed.

Its conﬁgurable processing engine and visual interface let engineers restructure assemblies, automate data transformations, and push validated BOMs through approval workflows without rebuilding from scratch. With direct connectivity to procurement workflows, MaXXlink ensures that approved BOM data flows seamlessly to purchasing—providing accurate part lists, approved substitutes, and real-time availability for sourcing decisions.

The result: seamless CAD-to-ERP integration that accelerates engineering-to-procurement hand-offs, reduces manual intervention, and maintains full traceability—fuelling next-gen manufacturing with real-time, actionable data from design through to the factory floor.“ MaXXlink also acts as a risk mitigation tool, ensuring high conﬁdence in BOM accuracy and costing for procurement,” said Davis.

The tool consolidates datasets within the CAD & ERP for seamless integration, presenting exploded CAD assemblies visually rather than as basic Excel tables. Users can click on 3D imagery to view item attributes and add items or processes by drag and drop.

“The relationships, numbers, and metadata for each item are automated, fully digitalising what was a manual process,” said Davis.

Cloud-based and hosted on Azure, MaXXlink is accessible on any device, with lower training needs due to its intuitive interface. If complications arise, training and implementation are handled by CI’s expert engineers, with ongoing developer and customer support.

Putting data solutions in motion

Feedback so far has been positive. One company beneﬁting from MaXXlink is Clutterbot, a ﬁrm designing AI-powered household tidying robots that autonomously detect, pick up, and organise clutter using computer vision and deep machine learning.

“Five years ago, Clutterbot set out to take the stress out of coming home to a lounge scattered with toys and baby clothes. By that August, cofounder Justin Hamilton and the company’s ﬁrst employee, Kalen Wolfe, had opened Clutterbot’s inaugural ofﬁce in Wellington, marking a major step in turning that vision into reality,” said Kimberley Attwell, production team lead at Clutterbot.

While bringing its flagship robot to market has been a long road, the company plans to move towards production, with a soft launch at ROSCon in Singapore on October 31st and a public launch at CES in Las Vegas on January 7th.

Along the way, Clutterbot partnered with CI, which provided SolidWorks as its main CAD program for mechanical design. CI’s latest support came via MaXXlink, which Attwell said the company is “very excited about.” The tool links directly with his role overseeing production, inventory, and the BOM, one of the most challenging job aspects.

“CI gave us a lot of support as we worked through the design process and the technical issues that naturally come with complex software systems,” said Attwell.

Clutterbot uses MaXXlink to extract the BOM from SolidWorks and integrate it into their ERP system via APIs, aligning design work and inventory to reduce the risk of missed changes.

“MaXXlink is a key piece of software. I’ve done a lot of manufacturing and design over the years, and it’s one of the most useful tools I’ve seen for production,” said Attwell.

Setting up the BOM for Clutterbot’s robot involves large amounts of manual data entry, so MaXXlink saves time, reduces errors, and frees Attwell to focus on more important work. He found the interface quick to install and seamless to integrate into SolidWorks, with setup through CI’s web portal and straightforward data extraction.

“It was really easy to implement, and their support was great – communication was clear and the process straightforward,” he said.

Due to its cost-effectiveness, value, and strong support, Attwell would recommend MaXXlink to other manufacturers.

“From our end, it’s deﬁnitely been a good decision – we’re very happy with the choice,” he said.

This case exempliﬁes CI’s shift from software reseller to full software solutions provider by expanding services to include integration, consultancy, and ongoing support tailored to client needs. It allows them to deliver customised solutions that drive innovation and efﬁciency beyond just selling products.

Why adaptive automation is Australia’s manufacturing advantage

Facing high costs, small runs and remote markets, ANZ manufacturers are using accessible robotics, sensors and software to work smarter and compete globally despite the odds.

High costs, small batch sizes and remote markets challenge ANZ manufacturers – but with adaptable robotics, intelligent software and sensor-driven systems, local makers are ﬁnding new ways to compete on a global stage. Other Australian manufacturers that have perhaps been less proactive, “must think differently” according to founder of Applied Robotics, Dr Paul Wong.

“Factories in Europe or Asia might dedicate entire facilities to a single product, but we require agile systems that accommodate greater variety with shorter runs – and still remain proﬁtable,” he said.

This kind of flexibility enabled by these systems wasn’t always possible. For decades, automation meant rigid systems designed for mass production – efﬁcient only at scale, and far from ideal for Australia’s high-mix, low-volume manufacturing needs.

But that’s changing according to Wong. Starting in the 1990s, the convergence of cost-effective computing, advanced sensors and precise servodrives laid the groundwork for a more dynamic future. Today, Australian factories are embracing

a new generation of technologies that make responsiveness, precision and customisation part of their competitive edge.

Leaving ﬁxed systems behind

The traditional model of automation, built for sameness and scale, created friction for Australian manufacturers. With more variants, shorter runs, higher labour costs and changing customer

demands, many operations struggled to keep up.

The arrival of adaptive automation – with systems that can reconﬁgure themselves through software updates – is transforming that equation.

“It’s not about replacing people,” Wong emphasised. “It’s about rethinking manufacturing to gain flexibility as a strategic advantage.”

He believes the result will be more cost-effective smaller runs, faster product changeovers and

Applied Robotics serve automotive, food, packaging, pharmaceutical, electronics, plastics, and general industrial manufacturing industries.

Applied Robotics designs and manufactures robotic end-of-arm tooling and connectivity solutions for industrial automation systems.

customisation achievable without prohibitive cost.

In forward-thinking local factories, four technologies are reshaping production floors.

1. Intelligent robots for flexible handling

Modern robots are no longer conﬁned to a single task. Today’s shopfloors use articulated robots with multi-jointed arms handling loads from 1kg to over a tonne; SCARA robots making up to 60 precise movements per minute; overhead DELTA robots performing up to 120 high-speed picks per minute; and COBOTs designed to work safely alongside humans.

“The cost and complexity of robots has dropped dramatically,” Wong explained. “Globally, there were 4.3 million industrial robots installed by 2023 – a jump from 1.3 million a decade ago. China leads with over 250,000 units, while Australia has just 8,000, which shows just how much room we have to grow.”

2. Smart motion: coordination over rigidity

Flexible production depends not just on robots, but on how components move between tasks. Innovations include programmable carriers replacing conveyors, smart grippers that handle anything from biscuits to steel, servo systems for delicate force control, and AMRs that move materials independently, adjusting routes as needed.

Wong likens this to “a dance of coordinated movement”, where flow replaces ﬁxed infrastructure.

3. Advanced 3D sensing for precision

Today’s systems can see, feel and respond to product variability. Examples of this include 3D vision systems that recognise objects regardless of orientation; force/torque sensors that allow ﬁne adjustments mid-process; and virtual safety systems that enable safe collaboration between people and machines.

Capral Aluminium’s advanced packing line demonstrates this well. Using 3D cameras, it can identify and sort more than 6,000 unique aluminium proﬁles – even reflective ones –adjusting packing in real-time.

4. Smarter software for smarter decisions

Cloud-based platforms and AI software now tie operations together with AI-driven decisionmaking without hand-coded logic; digital twins to model and test processes virtually; and autoprogramming tools that convert CAD ﬁles into robotic movements instantly.

“In 2018, we launched Australia’s ﬁrst AI-based factory automation for Capral,” Wong recalled.

“The system identiﬁed and handled each extrusion proﬁle in real-time – something impossible with legacy automation.”

Arnott’s has used similar tech to create a biscuit handling line that sorts up to 105 biscuits per second.

From concept to payoff

The impact of adaptive automation is tangible, enabling local companies to stay viable, and in some cases, to bring manufacturing home.

“When products can’t be produced competitively, they’re outsourced,” Wong said. “But adaptive automation enables local production that competes on responsiveness and quality, not just cost.”

This has been the case for numerous customers of Applied Robotics. When Legrand Australia needed to compete with imported light switches, Applied Robotics delivered an automated system that produced everything from single to six-gang conﬁgurations with minimal downtime – doubling output and reducing labour.

Capral’s investment cut freight by 50 per cent

and improved distribution times, all the while processing thousands of ever-changing proﬁles. Also, a local audio manufacturer, ﬁrst-pass success improved to 95 per cent, and the operator count dropped from three to one.

Making it work:

three lessons from 700+ projects

Having led hundreds of automation rollouts, Wong is clear with his messaging that technology isn’t usually the problem. He said up to 80 per cent of failed projects fall short not because of tech, but because of poor planning or execution.

“The planning stage is where most of your success is locked in,” Wong noted. “The best tech or PM in the world can’t ﬁx a weak business case.”

To avoid that, Applied Robotics follows three core principles:

1. Think about end-to end-operations– don’t optimise one machine at the expense of overall flow

2. Be detail-obsessed – minor oversights can cost dearly. Edge cases, integration points and tight specs all matter – and should be tested thoroughly before launch.

3. Have a project champion – success needs a dedicated lead who can straddle business needs and technical detail – driving the project forward when things get tough.

Turning disadvantages into strengths

Australian manufacturers face challenges, but adaptive technologies are flipping the script. From automated biscuit handling to scalable electronics production, the future is being built – one flexible robot at a time.

“Since 1985, our goal has been to make Australian manufacturing globally competitive,” said Wong. “With these tools, our size and variability become assets, not liabilities.”

Images: Applied Robotics.

Having led hundreds of automation rollouts, Wong said planning is the usual problem in the automation equation, not technology.

WELD COMMENT

GEOFF CRITTENDEN,

Reviving Australian manufacturing: from rhetoric to action

At the 2025 National Manufacturing Summit, Weld Australia and industry leaders called for coordinated action to turn policy into practice and level the playing ﬁeld for Australian manufacturers.

Australia’s manufacturing sector stands at a crossroads. On one hand, the federal government’s Future Made in Australia agenda signals renewed ambition and unprecedented investment. On the other, global headwinds, energy insecurity, and unfair overseas competition continue to erode the domestic industrial base. The 2025 Weld Australia National Manufacturing Summit made one thing crystal clear: we are running out of time to turn policy intent into meaningful, coordinated action.

Hosted by Weld Australia in Sydney in late July, the Summit brought together leaders from across industry, unions, academia, and all levels of government. The energy in the room was palpable, driven by a shared understanding that Australia must make more value-added things here on sovereign territory.

But the challenge is no longer about convincing people of the value of manufacturing. It’s about implementation. How do we create long-term policy certainty, unlock investment, and build the skills base needed to meet this moment? How do we prevent a flood of dumped steel and imported infrastructure from undermining our ambitions? And how do we seize the opportunity presented by the renewable energy transition to revitalise Australian industry?

These were the questions at the heart of this year’s Summit, and they must now be answered through coordinated, practical action.

The opportunity: renewable energy as a catalyst for industrial revival

One of the most promising themes to emerge from the Summit was the alignment between the renewable energy transition and industrial renewal.

Australia will need to manufacture over 6,000 wind towers and thousands of kilometres of transmission infrastructure over the next decade. This isn’t just an environmental imperative – it’s an industrial opportunity. We can either build these assets here or import them from subsidised overseas suppliers.

The economic case for local manufacturing is compelling. As Tim Ayres, federal minister for industry and innovation, pointed out, Australian structural steel and fabrication businesses stand to beneﬁt enormously if procurement policy and

investment settings are designed to favour local capability. The government’s $1 billion Green Iron Investment Fund and $500 million Innovation Fund for clean energy manufacturing are welcome steps. But to make the most of these initiatives, we need stronger, enforceable local content requirements –something Weld Australia has long advocated for.

Government investment is vital, but without coordinated procurement policies that require local industry participation, we risk simply subsidising demand for imports. We need to ensure that every dollar spent on the energy transition supports sovereign capability and good local jobs.

The threat: unfair overseas competition is hollowing out industry

Australia’s manufacturing sector is being eroded by a flood of low-cost, non-compliant imports that do not meet Australian Standards. These products undercut local manufacturers on price, not quality, creating an uneven playing ﬁeld that threatens jobs, investment, and sovereign capability.

At the Summit, this issue emerged as one of the most urgent challenges facing Australian industry. While local fabricators are held to rigorous safety and quality standards, overseas suppliers can bypass these obligations and win contracts on cost alone. The result is a race to the bottom in price, with local manufacturers squeezed out of public and private sector projects.

Steel once destined for the United States is being redirected to Australia following the introduction of stronger trade protections in the US. Without similar measures here, Australia has become a dumping ground for cheap imports, accelerating the decline of a sector already under immense pressure.

But as several speakers pointed out, this is not a matter of scarcity. It’s a matter of will. Australia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. We have the ﬁnancial capacity, the workforce, and the public support to invest in a future made locally. What’s lacking is a commitment to the policy and economic reform needed to make it happen.

The warning was clear: without decisive intervention, Australia stands to lose its industrial base. And once lost, it may never return.

The

enablers: foundations for

a stronger manufacturing future

To realise the full potential of a revitalised manufacturing sector, we must strengthen the foundational enablers that support long-term industrial capability.

1. Compliance and fair competition

A level playing ﬁeld is essential for the survival of Australian manufacturing. Right now, it doesn’t exist. Local fabricators who invest in quality, safety, training and certiﬁcation are competing with offshore suppliers that often ignore Australian Standards and flood the market with substandard, low-cost imports.

Multiple speakers at the Summit reinforced the need for enforceable standards, backed by independent veriﬁcation and consistent national procurement practices. Australia cannot afford to continue rewarding non-compliance, particularly when our own manufacturers are being penalised for doing the right thing.

The Canadian model, presented at the Summit by Doug Luciani and Jim Stanford, provides a powerful case study. By embedding compliance within public procurement policy and mandating alignment with Canadian codes and standards, Canada has created a procurement ecosystem that supports domestic capability. A similar framework, tailored for Australian Standards such as AS/ NZS ISO 3834 and AS/NZS 5131, would go a long way toward restoring fairness and certainty for local manufacturers.

2. Policy leadership and long-term investment

Industry cannot plan for the future when government policy shifts with every election cycle. Long-term investment requires long-term certainty. While recent government announcements, including the Future Made in Australia plan and National Reconstruction Fund, are steps in the right direction, we need clear, consistent signals about the direction of industrial policy. Alignment across the State and Federal Governments is essential to ensure manufacturing is not just part of our past, but a central pillar of our future.

The creation of manufacturing hubs, innovation precincts, and centres of excellence must be

accompanied by a broader national strategy that articulates our industrial priorities, coordinates investment across the supply chain, and ensures accountability for outcomes. Australian governments must implement enforceable local content mandates for government-funded projects.

Australian manufacturing is not asking for protectionism. It is asking for predictability. With the right policy foundations, manufacturers will invest in new technologies, expand their operations, and create secure, full-time jobs in every corner of the country.

3. Secure, affordable energy supply

Energy is the lifeblood of manufacturing. When gas and electricity prices spike, production slows, jobs are lost, and investment dries up. Unfortunately, as new research from The Australia Institute conﬁrms, Australia’s domestic energy settings, particularly on the east coast, have left manufacturers dangerously exposed.

The unrestricted export of gas has driven up domestic prices while failing to guarantee local supply. Manufacturers are now paying global prices for energy extracted onshore, often with little recourse or transparency. At the same time, our transition to renewables is being hampered by a lack of grid infrastructure and uncertainty around pricing.

The message from the Summit was clear: we need an energy system that works for Australians, not just exporters. That includes:

• Implementing a domestic gas reservation policy.

• Capping uncontracted gas exports during periods of shortage.

• Reforming the National Electricity Market to break the price-setting power of gas generators.

• Accelerating investment in renewable generation and transmission, with industrial customers in mind.

Without secure, affordable energy, Australia cannot sustain – or grow – its manufacturing base.

4. Skills and workforce strategy

A future made in Australia will only be possible with a workforce trained in Australia. The manufacturing sector is already facing critical shortages in skilled trades, particularly in welding, fabrication, and advanced production. The transition to renewables, the push for sovereign capability, and the growth of advanced manufacturing will only increase demand.

The Summit highlighted the importance of innovative, inclusive approaches to workforce development. Programs like Corrections Victoria’s Centre of Excellence for Welding show what is possible when industry, education and social reform intersect. By training prisoner learners to ISO 9606 standards using both augmented reality and hands-on methods, the program is producing skilled, motivated workers ready for meaningful employment.

But this effort needs to be scaled nationally. Australia must invest in TAFE, develop consistent national training pathways, and build programs that attract young people into manufacturing. A national workforce strategy, aligned with industry needs and future growth areas, is essential to ensure we have the right skills in the right places at the right time.

The message: industry cannot wait another decade

Throughout the Summit, there was a growing sense of urgency. We cannot afford another ﬁ ve or ten years of policy drift. If we fail to act now,

we will not have the industrial base we need to support the energy transition, national resilience, or economic sovereignty.

This is not just a manufacturing issue. It is a national interest issue. Manufacturing creates secure, full-time jobs. It supports regional economies. It drives productivity and innovation. And, in an increasingly volatile global landscape, it is the key to economic resilience.

The action plan: where to from here

To rebuild a thriving, competitive and future-focused manufacturing sector in Australia, Weld Australia believes the following actions must be prioritised. Ensure compliance and fair competition must be prioritised by introducing mandatory independent certiﬁcations for all fabricated products modelled on Canada’s approach to ensure they meet AS/NZS ISO 3834 and AS/NZS 5131, reducing the flood of substandard offshore materials and restoring a level playing ﬁeld. This should also involve strengthening Australia’s anti-dumping protections, especially in the face of global steel oversupply redirected from markets like the United States into Australia.

Providing policy leadership and long-term investment certainty must be focused upon by coordinating policy across all levels of government to deliver clear, stable, and consistent industrial strategy, giving manufacturers conﬁdence to make long-term investments in equipment, technology, and workforce.

Securing an affordable and reliable energy supply must also be prioritised, by implementing a domestic gas reservation policy to ensure manufacturers have access to reasonably priced energy, particularly on Australia’s east coast.

This can also be done by capping uncontracted gas exports and reform pricing mechanisms to stop local manufacturers from being exposed to volatile international gas markets, and accelerating investment in renewables and transmission infrastructure, with pricing models that reflect the needs of energy-intensive industries and provide long-term price certainty.

We must also leverage the renewable energy transition to stimulate local manufacturing through enforceable local content rules, strategic investment, and guaranteed supply chain participation.

Finally, expanding skills and workforce initiatives is vital , including TAFE funding, manufacturing centres of excellence, and programs like Corrections Victoria’s welder training.

As I said at the Summit, we are staring into an industrial abyss. But right beside it is a oncein-a-generation opportunity. The only question now is whether we have the courage, vision, and political resolve to seize the opportunity before it’s too late.

The Weld Australia 2025 National Manufacturing Summit brought together leaders from across industry, unions, academia, and all levels of government.

Image: Weld Australia

Australia’s youngest and brightest gear up for world stage

In mid-August, WorldSkills Australia announced its national training squad ahead of Shanghai 2026 WorldSkills Competition.

Australia’s brightest young trades and technical talents are preparing to step onto the global stage, with the announcement of WorldSkills Australia’s national training squad for the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, from 22–27 September 2026.

The 39-strong squad is made up of apprentices, trainees and young professionals who earned their place through performances at the recent WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane. Medals were awarded across over 60 skill categories – including industry 4.0, welding and additive manufacturing.

“The talent on display at the National Championships was nothing short of extraordinary – a true reflection of the world-class skills that exist right here in Australia,” said WorldSkills Australia CEO, Trevor Schwenke. “These young people have proven themselves among the best in the country and now have the opportunity to show the

The national training squad represents the ﬁrst step towards selection for Team Australia. Over the next 12 months, members will undertake an intensive training program designed to push them to the highest level of their craft. From mastering technical precision to building mental resilience, the aim is to prepare them for the intensity of competing against more than 1,400 peers from over 60 countries.

“WorldSkills is more than a competition – it’s a platform to showcase potential, elevate ambition, and celebrate the skilled professionals shaping Australia’s future,” said Schwenke. “Behind every squad member is a dedicated trainer, mentor, and a VET system that equips young people with realworld skills and career pathways.”

The squad’s announcement coincided with National Skills Week, an annual initiative celebrating vocational education and its role in shaping the nation’s workforce and economy. Minister for Skills and Training, Hon Andrew Giles MP, praised the squad as ambassadors for the power of vocational training.

“I congratulate every member of the national training squad, who’ve already proven their success following their participation at the WorldSkills National Championships in Brisbane and are now looking to the global stage,” he said. “These rising stars represent just a snapshot of the incredible

The national training squad was officially launched at Parliament House in Canberra on 1 September.

Image: WorldSkills Australia