Autodesk announced the launch of new AI-powered capabilities within its Fusion and Alias software, designed to streamline manufacturing workflows and boost efficiency. 

The new tools, unveiled during Autodesk University’s annual Design & Make conference, aims to simplify complex tasks and empower manufacturers to deliver innovative products faster.

“For decades, manufacturers have responded to their customers’ demands for increasingly complex products, which in turn typically increases the complexity of designing and manufacturing those products,” said Jeff Kinder, executive vice president for Product Development and Manufacturing Solutions at Autodesk.

The new capabilities include AutoConstrain in Fusion, which automates the process of detecting and maintaining design relationships, saving designers significant time.

Another feature, Drawing Automation, generates 2D manufacturing drawings from 3D models at the click of a button, accelerating production timelines.

“Automations that handle error-prone, burdensome tasks, freeing people to focus on high-value, more rewarding work,” added Kinder.

Autodesk also introduced Form Explorer for Alias, a generative design tool enabling automotive designers to explore creative forms while adhering to historical styling cues.

In addition, the Autodesk Assistant in Fusion offers real-time, expert-level guidance, providing answers to technical questions and links to relevant sources within the software.

Kinder noted, “Imagine an AI assistant that flags supply chain risks. Simulations that push designers toward more sustainable and manufacturable designs.”

“We’re building these capabilities, as well as empowering our customers to build them.”

New manufacturing Data Model API launched

Autodesk has also launched a Manufacturing Data Model API to enhance data exchange and interoperability.

This new API allows third-party apps to integrate with Fusion projects, ensuring smooth collaboration between tools and workflows.

OpenBOM has developed a web-based solution that automates bill of materials (BOM) workflows, giving non-designers easy access to BOMs directly from design data and eliminating the need for manual, error-prone processes.

Meanwhile, Cideon has established a two-way integration between Autodesk Fusion and SAP, allowing CAD engineers and manufacturers to access SAP’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) data within Fusion.

Expanding the ecosystem for seamless collaboration

Recognising the need for connected tools, Autodesk said it continues to partner with over 150 hardware and software providers. Recent integrations include:

• Paperless Parts: Allows manufacturing estimators to generate instant quotes and address manufacturability issues within Fusion.
• Avnet Plugin: Enables electronics designers to source components and access reference designs directly in Fusion, reducing product development time.
• Makersite for Inventor: Offers sustainability insights by calculating environmental impacts, tracking progress toward eco-friendly goals, and suggesting material alternatives.
• NAVASTO for Alias Automotive: Brings wind tunnel simulations into the early design phase, helping automotive designers optimize aerodynamics and reduce redesign efforts.

“As an industry, we have an unprecedented opportunity to seize the value that AI, data, and digitisation offer. To do so, we must start by accessing and interconnecting the data to uncover the insights it offers,” Kinder stated.

“That’s why we’re so invested in continuing to build the Autodesk Fusion industry cloud. It’s the design and make platform for manufacturing. It’s a central environment for data, closely coupled with Autodesk AI to augment creativity, automate your workflow’s tedious tasks, and analyse project data to yield predictive insights that benefit business,” concluded Kinder.

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Coles has opened its second state-of-the-art Customer Fulfilment Centre in Wetherill Park, NSW, bolstering its tech-driven supply chain strategy, with the launch attended by Minister Chris Bowen, Chairman James Graham, and CEO Leah Weckert.

This opening comes a month after Coles unveiled its first CFC in Truganina, Victoria, as part of a $400 million partnership with Ocado, a global leader in online grocery automation.

CEO Leah Weckert highlighted the significance of the launch, especially ahead of the holiday season.

“[The] launch marks a significant transformation of our online grocery delivery service for New South Wales. Across Victoria and New South Wales, we’ve already fulfilled over 120,000 orders with near-perfect accuracy and zero substitutions.”

Weckert emphasised that the new fulfilment centres come at the perfect time to meet the heightened demands of Christmas shopping. 

“With greater choice, better availability, improved freshness and more flexible delivery options, our CFCs are making it easier for our customers to shop this Christmas,” she added.

The Wetherill Park CFC will serve a region with over five million residents, from Hazelbrook in the west to Bondi in the east, and from Cowan in the north to Bargo in the south. 

The facility offers a range of extended services, including access to specialty brands such as Byron Bay Peanut Butter and an expanded selection of health, baby, and dietary products.

The centre boasts on-site baking, fresh produce packaging to order, and longer delivery windows, operating from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Customers can also benefit from same-day delivery options with extended cut-off times.

With a footprint spanning more than 87,000 square metres—four times the size of the Sydney Cricket Ground—the Wetherill Park CFC integrates Ocado’s advanced robotics and artificial intelligence. A fleet of over 700 robots will operate in “The Hive,” a central hub where grocery orders are fulfilled within minutes. 

An AI-driven control system ensures seamless operations by coordinating the movements of robots across 3D grids.

The site has capacity to store three million units of stock and process more than 10,000 orders per day when fully operational. 

Around 1,000 employees will work at the facility, including drivers supported by 200 specialized delivery vans equipped to ensure optimal freshness and lower emissions.

Chairman James Graham praised the progress in Coles’ technology strategy, noting, “With the recent opening of our two automated distribution centres in Kemps Creek and in Redbank, Queensland, alongside our two Ocado CFC’s – the first in Victoria last month, and now here in Western Sydney today – we have made significant strides in using world-class technology to enhance our supply chain.”

Designed with sustainability in mind, the Wetherill Park CFC features a two-megawatt solar installation, water recycling systems, and sensor lighting. The facility also commits to 100 per cent cardboard recycling, furthering Coles’ environmental efforts.

CEO of Ocado Group, Tim Steiner, expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s a great moment for Ocado as we celebrate the opening of this second CFC here in Australia with Coles.” 

“This is one of the fastest growing markets in the world for grocery ecommerce, and Coles is already a market leader in the online channel,” he added.

The Wetherill Park CFC is named Duraway Ngurra, meaning “Grass Country,” in consultation with the local Dharug community. 

The artwork and name celebrate the cultural heritage of the Dharug people, whose connections span across the Sydney basin.

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Article by Anthony Mittelmark,  Fujitsu Oceania, Chief Technology Officer for Retail and Commercial

The Australian manufacturing sector is in a state of emergency. Insolvencies have tripled in two years since 2022, and the industry is battling a perfect storm of labour shortages, supply chain disruption, and skyrocketing inflation. 

The federal government has launched the Future Made in Australia initiative, the cornerstone of its 2024 budget to revitalise the sector. 

At a time when the government is investing heavily in manufacturing, this as a great opportunity for manufacturing companies to invest in reinvigorating their operations, especially focusing on their biggest asset – their workforce.

Elevating employee experience with data and AI: Two stones with one bird 

The Australian manufacturing sector is facing a critical workforce crisis. The ABS Labour Force Survey reveals a staggering 11.5% decline in employment over the past two decades, fuelled by gender disparity and lingering COVID-19 job losses.

The solution? Elevate employee experience. 

Employees are at the core of business performance. Gallup’s research proves it: engaged employees drive a whopping 147% higher earnings per share and 21% greater profitability. 

This is your chance to turn the tide. Data and AI are your secret tools to improve employee experience.   

The first step? Start with data 

The first step in this journey is through data. A robust employee measurement model is the foundation for building a truly engaged and thriving workforce.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Gather valuable insights: Use surveys, pulse checks, onboarding feedback, and exit interviews to understand employee sentiment.
2. Go beyond the numbers: Key metrics like employee net promoter scores, employee satisfaction indices, turnover rates, and absenteeism can provide a comprehensive view of your workforce’s “health.” But don’t just focus on the metrics – look for the underlying trends.
3. Create a data-informed culture: Harness the power of data to create a truly employee-centric culture and unlock the hidden potential of your workforce.

AI will improve efficiency and profitability  

Combining data with AI is the next step to elevate a manufacturing unit. Here we’ve provided some ways manufacturers can use AI to revolutionise their workplace. 

Preventing turnover before it happens  

AI can analyse employee data to identify potential flight risks. This allows you to intervene early and address concerns, keeping valuable talent on board. 

Once AI has identified flight risks, it can help with offering personalised engagement initiatives to keep high-risk employees engaged and motivated. 

Consider this scenario: AI detects that a seasoned machine operator, who has consistently excelled, is now logging increased overtime while productivity has declined. Rather than waiting for this employee to express dissatisfaction, the AI system can recommend tailored interventions to keep the employee engaged and motivated. 

AI improves worker safety and compliance 

Safety is paramount at any point of the manufacturing chain, however traditional safety measures are no longer enough. 

AI-powered sensors and cameras are your eyes and ears on the factory floor, constantly monitoring compliance with safety protocols and providing real-time alerts. By analysing historical data, AI can even predict potential hazards before they occur.

A real-life application of this technology is Fujitsu’s Kozuchi, a cloud-based AI platform. When integrated with ServiceNow’s Occupational Health and Safety solution, it serves as an advanced safety management system that enables real-time monitoring of workplace conditions. 

This proactive safety management fosters a culture of security and trust among employees, leading to higher engagement levels. AI-driven safety measures will also make manufacturing environments more appealing to diverse workforces, potentially encouraging more women to join the industry. 

AI boosts productivity 

AI is emerging as a vital tool for optimising productivity within manufacturing operations. By analysing workflows, equipment usage, and task completion rates, AI systems can pinpoint bottlenecks and recommend adjustments that streamline operations.

For example, Fujitsu’s AI-based quality inspection solution is revolutionising manufacturing lines for REHAU Industries in Germany, one of the world’s leading polymer manufacturers. 

Previously, quality control at the firm relied heavily on manual checks, which were time-consuming and prone to errors, often catching defects only at the beginning or end of production. The new automated system now detects over 99% of defects in real-time, ensuring consistent quality and reducing the risk of costly production errors. 

This transformation not only enhances product quality but also frees up workers to focus on higher-value tasks. This helps boost employee productivity and ultimately drive sustainable growth for REHAU.

In addition, AI tools help provide real-time feedback to employees on their performance, helping them identify areas for improvement and optimise their performance.

AI also equips managers with the insights they need to make informed decisions about staffing and resource allocation, ensuring a responsive workforce that can adapt to changing demands.

Employee experience is the key to business success, now more than ever

Globally, manufacturers are already embracing AI: Over half of European and North American manufacturing companies are already using AI to boost employee productivity, while over 30% are using it to create better work conditions.

Australian businesses have a burning platform to catching up. 

By integrating AI into employee retention strategies, workplace safety protocols, and productivity enhancement, the Australian manufacturing sector can harness the power of technology to create a more engaged, secure, and efficient workforce. 

This approach not only addresses current challenges but also positions companies for sustainable growth and success in a competitive landscape.

The impact extends beyond just workforces. Happy, engaged employees lead to increased customer satisfaction and long-term business success.

Investing in AI today can help secure the future of your manufacturing business.

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The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) announced the appointment of Matthew Cronin as State Director for Western Australia.

In this new role, Cronin will oversee the implementation of an $8 million collaborative program aimed at enhancing the participation of advanced manufacturing in the state’s burgeoning wind energy sector.

The appointment follows a cooperative agreement between the Western Australian Government and AMGC, signed in May, to co-design and deliver funding that will improve the capacity and capability of local manufacturers to engage in wind energy supply chains.

Cronin brings over 20 years of experience from both the public and private sectors, with a focus on critical infrastructure, utilities, energy transition, and resources. 

He succeeds Angela Doyle, who served as Interim State Director and played a crucial role in establishing the program and managing AMGC’s co-funded Federal Program in WA from 2018 to 2022.

“Throughout my career I often reflect on my North Star and finding the union of value, purpose, competency and reward. This role aligns perfectly,” said Cronin. 

He expressed his enthusiasm for working with local manufacturers to stimulate industry participation and create opportunities, particularly for Aboriginal communities.

The $8 million program is part of the Western Australian Government’s Wind Turbine Manufacturing Initiative, designed in response to recommendations from an independent feasibility study by Aurecon, which identified wind energy manufacturing and servicing opportunities.

Dr Jens Goennemann, managing director of AMGC, stated, “AMGC is excited to build on our record of supporting the best manufacturers across Australia, leading to new economic opportunities and jobs while enhancing the nation’s industrial complexity.” 

He added that they are eager to have Cronin lead their efforts in Western Australia and look forward to supporting the state’s industrial base in capitalising on opportunities within the wind energy sector.

According to the Aurecon report, Western Australia possesses existing engineering capabilities and transferrable skills from other industries that can support wind turbine componentry.

Opportunities include contracting with Original Equipment Manufacturers, as well as providing maintenance, construction, and end-of-life services.

Manufacturers in Western Australia or those looking to establish a manufacturing base in the state can express their interest in participating in wind energy supply chains by visiting AMGC’s website. 

Once registered, manufacturers will receive updates on events and potential funding opportunities.

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Article by James Robinson, Head of Services for Asia Pacific at SYSPRO

The Australian Industrial Manufacturing, Fabricated Metals and Engineering sectors make a significant contribution to our economy, playing a vital role in industrial development, aiding economic growth and employment.

According to data from the Australian Government’s Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) department, manufacturing overall employs approximately 6.3 per cent of the Australian workforce.

Encouragingly, the manufacturing sector has shown resilience and growth over the past year, adding 14,800 new workers, a 1.7 per cent increase as of May 2024. Similarly, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported a 1.9 per cent increase in manufacturing turnover in the year leading to June 2024.

These statistics highlight the sector’s potential, but they also reveal a pressing issue: skilled labour shortages remain a significant challenge that must be urgently addressed with strategic solutions to sustain the current growth trajectory.

The impact of labour shortages on the Industrial Manufacturing sector

Despite recent positive employment numbers, the Industrial Manufacturing sector struggles with a lack of skilled talent. JSA data shows that median weekly earnings in manufacturing are $1,512, falling short of the all-industry median of $1,600. This wage disparity means the Industrial Manufacturing sector must reconsider its compensation strategies to attract and retain talent, especially in a competitive labour market where skilled workers have options across other industries.

However, attracting talent by increasing wages creates a catch-22 for Industrial Manufacturing companies. Raising salaries can lead to higher overheads, reduced profit margins and increased product prices, which could drive inflation. This presents a delicate balance for manufacturers, especially those in Australia’s Industrial Manufacturing sector, which already faces high operational and wage costs compared to global competitors.

According to our Global CFO Manufacturing Survey, 86 per cent of Australasian respondents reported that labour shortages are the most significant bottleneck causing instability in their business. The lack of skilled workers adds pressure to day-to-day operations, disrupting supply chains. Over half of respondents noted that securing skilled talent is a significant barrier to maintaining smooth supply chain operations.

How ERP systems help mitigate labour shortages

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems have emerged as a powerful solution for IME manufacturers grappling with skilled labour shortages. While finding qualified workers is becoming increasingly tricky, manufacturers can turn to technology to optimise their existing workforce, enhance efficiency and ultimately mitigate the impact of labour shortfalls.

An ERP system provides Industrial Manufacturers with a unified platform that integrates various business functions such as finance, procurement, production, inventory management, and human resources. This interconnectedness is critical for streamlining processes, reducing redundancy, and increasing departmental transparency.

When implemented effectively by a manufacturing specialist, ERP systems can significantly reduce manual work, enabling industrial manufacturing companies to maintain high productivity levels despite having fewer workers. Here are three key ways ERP system can help an industrial manufacturing company.

Workforce optimisation and efficiency

ERP systems offer powerful analytics to help industrial manufacturing companies optimise their existing labour force. These systems enable manufacturers to forecast labour needs, track employee productivity and identify inefficiencies.

With real-time data, industrial manufacturing companies can make informed decisions about staffing levels, allocate resources more effectively and even implement cross-training programs to upskill existing employees.

Optimising the workforce becomes essential in an environment where skilled workers are scarce. ERP systems can help identify bottlenecks and offer solutions, such as reallocating workers to high-priority areas or adjusting production schedules to align with available resources. This level of agility is crucial for industrial manufacturing producers trying to maintain productivity during labour shortages.

Enhancing decision-making through data-driven insights

One of ERP systems’ greatest strengths is their ability to provide data-driven insights. By consolidating information from different departments into a centralised platform, ERP systems allow managers to gain a holistic view of the business. This real-time visibility can be precious when dealing with labour shortages.

For instance, if a manufacturer is experiencing production delays due to a lack of skilled workers, ERP data can quickly identify the root cause of the problem, whether it’s an issue with scheduling, training, or resource allocation. Managers can then adjust their strategies accordingly, using ERP insights to make data-driven decisions that mitigate the impact of worker shortages.

Supply chain resilience

Labour shortages affect production and can have a ripple effect on the entire supply chain. With fewer workers available to manage logistics, inventory control and procurement, the risk of supply chain disruptions increases. ERP systems can help industrial manufacturing, fabricated metals and engineering companies build more resilient supply chains by providing end-to-end visibility and automating critical processes like order tracking, supplier management and demand forecasting.

By leveraging ERP systems, Industrial manufacturers can anticipate disruptions in the supply chain and adjust their production plans accordingly. For example, if a worker shortage delays the production of a critical component, the ERP system can reroute resources to ensure other areas of the production line remain operational. This level of flexibility is crucial for maintaining supply chain continuity, especially in an environment where labour shortages are unpredictable.

Conclusion

The Australian IME sector is at a pivotal moment. With demand for their goods on the rise and technological advancements pushing the industry forward, IME producers have a unique opportunity to thrive. However, labour shortages remain a critical challenge threatening the sector’s ability to scale and compete globally.

ERP systems are vital solutions in navigating this complex challenge. By automating processes, optimising workforce utilisation and enhancing supply chain resilience, ERP systems enable Australian IME manufacturers to do more with less. For those who fully leverage a manufacturing ERP system, it could represent the difference between stagnation and sustained growth in the global economy.

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The Victorian Government has announced the latest recipients of its Supply Chain Uplift Program (SCUP) grants, providing $827,000 in funding to 13 Victorian businesses to strengthen their competitiveness in the defence sector. 

Victorian Minister made the announcement for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins MP during her visit to Hanwha Defence Australia’s stand at the 2024 Land Forces International Defence Exposition.

Minister Hutchins highlighted the importance of the program in supporting local manufacturers. 

“The Supply Chain Uplift Program is giving our local manufacturers the best shot at securing new contracts – creating new jobs for Victorians and boosting our economy,” she said.

The matched co-funded grants of up to $100,000 will enable businesses to undertake a variety of business improvement projects, including facility upgrades, securing industry accreditations, and advancing research and product development. 

The goal is to help these companies secure contracts with major defence players like Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) and other key industry partners.

Among the successful recipients are companies such as Amiga Engineering, Brockman Engineering, Diamond Defence, and Tickford Racing. 

The funding is expected to enhance their capabilities, creating export opportunities and attracting investment into Victoria’s defence industry.

Dean Michie, acting managing director at Hanwha Defence Australia, praised the collaboration between the government and the defence industry.

“Working with the Victorian Government to support our two key defence programs means that these SMEs are able to work with us and also on other defence programs, truly uplifting the capabilities and capacities of the sector to compete both here and in Australia,” he explained.

Since its inception in 2021, the SCUP and the $10 million Victorian Land Systems Fund have supported business improvement initiatives across 22 Victorian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 

These efforts are driving the state’s advanced manufacturing and defence-related industries, which contribute $8.4 billion annually to the Victorian economy and employ over 24,300 workers.

Dr Steven Trpkovski, managing director at Diamond Defence, also emphasized the impact of the SCUP grants on his company’s growth. 

“The support provided by the Victorian Government through SCUP has enabled Diamond Defence to establish a world-leading capability in Australia for the Australian defence industry,” he said.

So far, the SCUP has awarded over $1.3 million to companies looking to modernize their manufacturing processes, purchase new equipment, and gain necessary certifications to work within the defence sector.

Michie also referenced Hanwha’s recent developments in Victoria, including the August opening of the Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE). 

“The opening of the Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE) in August this year demonstrates our commitment to Victoria, the Department of Defence and our supply chain partners,” he noted.

For more information on the Supply Chain Uplift Program, visit the Victorian Government’s official website.

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Melbourne-based biopharmaceutical giant Telix Pharmaceuticals announced its agreement to acquire RLS (USA) Inc, the only Joint Commission-accredited radiopharmacy network in the US, as part of a strategic move to expand its North American manufacturing and distribution capabilities. 

This acquisition will allow Telix to enhance its production of PET, SPECT, and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals while laying the groundwork for a next-generation radiometal production network.

The acquisition, which aligns with Telix’s strategy of vertical integration, will strengthen the company’s supply chain and distribution infrastructure, ensuring better control over product quality and delivery. 

By leveraging RLS’ 31 licensed radiopharmacies located across major U.S. metropolitan areas, Telix plans to build a radiometal production and distribution network for key isotopes used in diagnostics and therapy. 

The deal also includes over 100,000 square feet of licensed expansion space to meet increasing production demand.

In addition, Telix will deploy its ARTMS QUANTM Irradiation System (QIS) cyclotron technology across RLS’ network to facilitate the efficient production of radiometals, bolstering the company’s capacity to meet future demand. 

The acquisition will broaden patient access to these critical radiopharmaceuticals, particularly in underserved regions, and enhance Telix’s ability to provide a reliable and scalable supply chain for both its own products and those of its partners.

Dr Christian Behrenbruch, Managing Director and CEO of Telix, emphasised the significance of the acquisition: “Our vision is to build a radiometal production and distribution network fit for the future. By combining the ARTMS platform and the RLS network, we can scale up the production of key isotopes and build a stable and consistent supply of PET and SPECT diagnostic tracers, along with therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals across the U.S. This investment ensures we can continue to deliver top-quality products to our partners and patients.”

RLS will operate as an independent unit within Telix Manufacturing Solutions (TMS), which also includes brands like ARTMS, IsoTherapeutics, and Optimal Tracers. 

The acquisition will enhance Telix’s U.S. distribution network and complement its existing state-of-the-art GMP production facility in Belgium.

Stephen Belcher, CEO of RLS, expressed optimism about the partnership:
“We look forward to becoming part of the Telix Group ecosystem. This is a positive step for RLS, enabling us to expand our capabilities and continue delivering quality, reliability, and flexibility to our customers.”

Financial terms and closing conditions

The deal, valued at USD 230 million in upfront cash, includes additional deferred cash considerations of up to USD 20 million, contingent on meeting financial and operational milestones in the year following the transaction. 

Telix will fund the acquisition using existing cash reserves, with closing expected in early 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

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BlueScope Steel Limited has announced the release of its FY2024 Sustainability Report, outlining its progress and future plans towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly steel manufacturing process. 

The report highlights significant achievements in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, promoting responsible supply chain practices, and fostering a safe, inclusive workplace.

Sustainability leadership and global recognition

BlueScope has received global recognition for its sustainability efforts, being named a worldsteel 2024 Sustainability Champion. 

It also secured ResponsibleSteel site certification for its Phu My facility in Vietnam, marking a notable achievement in the Southeast Asian steel industry.

BlueScope’s CEO, Mark Vassella, emphasised the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community development across the 15 countries where it operates.

Emission reduction milestones

According to the report, in New Zealand, BlueScope’s Glenbrook site is undergoing a transformative upgrade with the construction of an electric arc furnace (EAF). 

This project, in partnership with the New Zealand government, is expected to reduce the site’s Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 55 per cent. BlueScope’s Delta, Ohio steel mill in North America has contributed to a 12 per cent reduction in steelmaking emissions intensity since 2018.

In Australia, BlueScope is exploring lower-emission ironmaking technologies, including the use of natural gas and hydrogen. These developments could reduce GHG emissions by as much as 85 per cent, marking a step towards BlueScope’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Community and workplace safety initiatives

Safety remains a top priority for BlueScope, with the company reporting several key safety initiatives in 2024. A global “Refocus on Safety” program was launched to address safety risks in high-risk activities, including the cleaning of live equipment. 

However, BlueScope reported four incidents in FY2024 that resulted in permanent incapacities, underscoring the continued importance of safety innovations.

BlueScope also emphasised its efforts to foster an inclusive workplace. The company maintained its target gender balance for its Board and Executive Leadership Team (ELT), with women representing 25 per cent of its workforce globally. 

In New Zealand, BlueScope received the Inclusive Workplace award at the Diversity Awards NZ for its progress in gender equity and inclusivity.

Collaboration for a sustainable future

To further its decarbonization goals, BlueScope has partnered with leading Australian iron ore producers Rio Tinto and BHP to investigate the feasibility of Australia’s first ironmaking electric smelting furnace (ESF). 

This collaboration could help pave the way for near-zero GHG emissions in steel production, utilizing renewable energy and direct reduced iron (DRI) technology.

Additionally, BlueScope continues to prioritise circularity within its operations, focusing on the durability, reuse, and recyclability of steel products. 

The company said it is working closely with universities, industry partners, and customers to address sustainability challenges, from designing longer-lasting products to reducing the carbon footprint of steel across its lifecycle.

For more information about BlueScope Steel’s sustainability initiatives and to view the full report, visit bluescope.com.

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Australia has unveiled its National Hydrogen Strategy, setting the stage for the country to become a global leader in clean energy, as revealed in a media release. 

In particular, the blueprint outlines plans to develop new domestic clean energy manufacturing capabilities and tap into massive export opportunities, positioning the country as a key player in secure, green energy supply chains.

State, territory, and federal governments have collaborated with industry leaders to finalise the strategy, which identifies four objectives supported by 34 actions and enablers. 

These efforts aim to establish Australia’s hydrogen industry at scale and bolster the nation’s transition to renewable energy sources.

Key to this push is the Green Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive Program and the expanded Green Hydrogen Headstart Program, both of which have been funded through the Albanese Government’s $8 billion commitment in this year’s Federal Budget as part of the “Future Made in Australia” initiative.

With the potential to unlock $50 billion in private sector investment, the programs are expected to boost Australia’s annual domestic green hydrogen production capacity to over 1 million tonnes by 2030. 

The strategy also looks ahead to possible production targets of 15 million tonnes by 2050, supported by five-yearly milestones.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that more than 20 per cent of announced global hydrogen projects are based in Australia, with the pipeline valued at over $200 billion. 

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen commented on the potential impact of the strategy: “This Strategy sets a vision for Australia as a global leader with its clean, innovative, safe, and competitive hydrogen industry.” 

“As our industry scales, it will provide further and greater benefit for communities, support broader economic growth, and provide a key lever for Australia to reach net zero,” Bowen added. 

The strategy also plays a key role in guiding future infrastructure investments and is expected to shape the course of Australia’s transition to renewable energy. 

Bowen noted, “It sends a clear signal to trading partners about the future marketplace in Australia for hydrogen and hydrogen-based fuels.”

The National Hydrogen Strategy is available for public access on the website of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

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Ampcontrol has announced the appointment of Alan Foster, Director of Operations, to its Board of Directors, as the company ramps up its manufacturing operations to meet the growing demand for energy transition solutions. 

In his new role as Executive Director, Foster will bridge the gap between the Board and day-to-day operations, providing strategic oversight on key areas including business performance, operations, supply chain management, and growth opportunities. 

In a media release, the company said Foster brings more than 35 years of experience in electrical engineering, manufacturing, and construction to the position.

“Alan is a reputable senior industry leader who brings extensive industry experience and a proven track record in operational excellence to the Board,” said Greg Sedgwick, Chairman of Ampcontrol. 

“His leadership aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainability. I look forward to his contributions to the ongoing expansion and strategic success of the business.”

Prior to joining Ampcontrol in 2005, Foster held key roles in the Power Systems division of Balfour Beatty, a major UK-based engineering and construction company. 

He also led strategic procurement and business transformation initiatives in the mining sector for Rio Tinto, focusing on coal, iron ore, and bauxite operations.

Foster expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am delighted to join the Ampcontrol Board and look forward to working with my fellow directors as we solve the most complex problems in energy.”

He added, “I bring a global industry perspective, particularly in manufacturing economies of scale, which is essential to our planned business growth to meet the industry demand we are experiencing.”

As Director of Operations, Foster oversees a broad portfolio of manufacturing operations, including mining electrics, power infrastructure, critical and stand-alone power systems, and transformers. 

His expertise will be crucial as Ampcontrol seeks to expand its production capabilities in response to the increasing demand for decarbonisation and energy transition solutions.

“Alan is a trusted and valued member of our Leadership Team, and it is a welcome addition to have him join the Board with his wealth of experience in Australian and global markets,” said Rod Henderson, Ampcontrol’s Managing Director and CEO. 

“The opportunities in front of us are significant as we rapidly expand and scale our manufacturing operations to support our customers’ decarbonisation needs for a sustainable future. Alan’s advice and guidance will be integral to achieving our vision to lead the global energy revolution.”

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