Sponsored Content by Australian Hardware Tools and Grinding Expo

In a world where globalization is more the norm than a buzzword, the Australian Hardware Tools and Grinding Expo (ATGE) serves as a beacon for the manufacturing sectors of both China and Australia.

Organized by Abrasivestocks and Hardware China, AusToolGrindingExpo will take place in the vibrant city of Brisbane from December 4th to 6th, 2023. With robust support from the Australian Hardware Association and Australian Hardware Magazine, this event is poised to redefine Sino-Australian manufacturing collaboration.

Australia has consistently excelled in specialized manufacturing sectors like biomedicine, numerical control, and solar efficiency. Meanwhile, China, a global manufacturing powerhouse, is advancing rapidly in the fields of hardware tools and abrasives—key drivers of industrial evolution.

The complementary strengths of China and Australia create a fertile landscape for manufacturing innovation. China offers extensive production experience and a comprehensive industrial chain, while Australia brings premium raw materials, cutting-edge R&D, and a steadfast commitment to quality. ATGE acts as the crucible for these synergies, fostering mutual innovation and efficiency.

Dever Yang, CEO of Abrasivestocks, sums up this vision: “Our goal is to elevate Australian manufacturing by integrating elite Chinese abrasive brands and their robust supply chains, while also helping China learn from Australia’s high-quality manufacturing. This is about more than business; it’s about cultivating a deep, multifaceted relationship between our nations.”

As Brisbane prepares for the Olympics, the city is undergoing a transformative phase. ATGE aspires to be a cornerstone of this evolution, spotlighting Brisbane’s dynamism and inviting global entrepreneurs to contribute to Queensland’s—and by extension, Australia’s—forward momentum. Looking ahead to 2024, ATGE plans to host a delegation of Australian exhibitors to experience China’s evolving manufacturing sector firsthand.

In summary, ATGE is not just an expo; it’s the genesis of a revitalized Sino-Australian manufacturing alliance. In addition to diamond tools, the expo will feature the Brisbane International Lab-grown Diamond Seminar. Professor Li Zhengxin, principal of the China Lab-diamond Alliance, will lead top original diamond manufacturers to exhibit at ATGE and share insights into China’s lab-grown diamond technology and market.

With a projected market value of 100 billion yuan, ATGE is also extending invitations to lab-grown diamond manufacturers and technical experts.

Step into the world of ATGE, the southern hemisphere’s premier grinding exhibition, and unlock a realm of untapped opportunities. For registration and more information, please visit atge.com.au.

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Media Release by Workplace Health & Safety Show

New Work Health and Safety obligations have come into effect over the past 12 months and it’s crucial businesses of all sizes and industries know what changes mean for them and their workforce. 

Business Chamber Queensland Workplace Relations, People & Culture General Manager Joanna Minchinton said meeting workplace health and safety requirements was important to protect the welfare of their business and workforce.

“It’s absolutely critical businesses are compliant with workplace health and safety obligations relevant to their business, workforce and industry– to ensure not only can their team operate in a safe workplace, but also the business is protected against any legal risk. This is one of the reasons we are heading to the Workplace Health & Safety Show in Brisbane this year – to communicate these important changes during our live session at the show,” Joanna said.

New regulations and codes

The new Code of Practice for the management of psychosocial hazards, which comes into effect from 1 April 2023, is among the new obligations employers need to familiarise themselves with. 

In addition, employers should understand the new protocols relating to the Fair Work Commission’s management of sexual harassment disputes. The Fair Work Commission’s new dispute resolution powers, effective from 6 March 2023, have created a new avenue for pursuing a dispute relating to sexual harassment at work. The amendments to the Paid Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) Leave Act, effective from 1 February 2023 for businesses with 14 or more employees, are also significant.

“Our role is to help businesses understand the impact of these workplace obligations. It is important to support business so they can plan for the future of their business and workforce,” Joanna said.

Not all businesses need a dedicated in-house specialist

While workplace health and safety is critical to businesses of all sizes and in all industry sectors, not every business needs to employ a dedicated workplace health and safety (WHS) expert and can instead outsource this service.

“Business Chamber Queensland’s expert workplace advisory services team are well placed to support Queensland businesses to comply with workplace regulations and laws specific to their individual circumstances,” Joanna said. 

“Our role is to ensure businesses have easy access to the information and resources to remain compliant and create a safe and healthy workplace. For example, we provide details on the impact of recent Industrial Relations (IR) legislation amendments, so employers can plan for the future of their businesses and workforces”.

Connect with the Business Chamber Queensland at the Workplace Health and Safety Show

Joanna will be presenting at the Workplace Health and Safety Show, taking place in Brisbane from 31 May to 1 June 2023. 

“It is important businesses are aware of the latest rules, tips and resources relevant to their needs. We expect this event will be a valuable platform for businesses wishing to access the latest details in a supportive, engaging and collaborative environment,” she said. 

Workplace health and safety is critical to current and future business operations. 

“As the nature of workforces and workplaces continue to adapt as communities and markets adapt, workplace health and safety needs will continue to change. We know businesses are resilient and adaptable and will continue to operate in line with developing workplace health and safety needs, to protect their business and most of all their workforce. A safe, protected and happy workforce is beneficial to the business,” Joanna said.

Joanna’s presentation, Staying across IR changes: What businesses need to know to foster safe and healthy workplaces, is part of the Knowledge Centre line-up on 1 June 2023. Interested professionals can view the complete program and register for free, at https://www.whsshow.com.au/brisbane. 

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Media Release by Modern Manufacturing Expo

News of the Australian Federal Government’s $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund (NRF) has been welcomed by business leaders across all industries, with the local manufacturing sector in particular set to receive a major boost from the funding.

$1 billion has been allocated to the advanced manufacturing sector, with a further $1.5 billion for medical manufacturing and $1 billion for investment in critical technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and robotics, both of which form a core part of advanced manufacturing.

“This investment will help to ensure that Australia remains a world leader in innovation and manufacturing,” comments Marie Kinsella, CEO, International Exhibition & Conference Group. Marie and the IEC Group are organisers of the Modern Manufacturing Expo, an event that brings together key manufacturing decision-makers and industry-leading suppliers who want to explore advanced manufacturing techniques.

“The Modern Manufacturing Expo is uniquely placed to understand the perspectives of both local manufacturers and the government. Our event brings all the key players in the manufacturing sphere together under one roof to strategise and share ideas for moving the industry forward,” she adds.

The 2023 Modern Manufacturing Expo takes place in Sydney at the Sydney Showground from 20-21 September.

How government funding accelerates technology adoption

According to the government’s official release, the NRF will provide finance to projects in priority areas to leverage Australia’s natural and competitive strengths. The funding will be distributed in a number of different forms, including loans, equity investments and guarantees.

To ensure that the funding is allocated as efficiently as possible, the government will work closely with industry to develop co-investment plans that identify high-level investment opportunities in the manufacturing sector.

“The reality is that while many local manufacturers are interested in moving from traditional to advanced manufacturing techniques, the technologies involved require a significant financial investment that may be prohibitive to smaller manufacturers,” Marie explains. 

“We believe that the NRF has the potential to accelerate this transition, by providing the funding necessary to invest in new technology, equipment and processes, as well as to upskill workers. This will help manufacturers to increase their productivity and competitiveness and create new employment opportunities within the sector.”

Why advanced manufacturing is critical to Australia’s economic growth

The NRF identified the seven priority funding areas for their potential to help Australian industry increase productivity, upscale competitiveness and address supply chain vulnerabilities. And while this benefits the manufacturing industry directly, it has positive knock-on effects for the economy at large.

“Advanced manufacturing is critical to Australia’s economic growth for several reasons, the first being that it enhances productivity and efficiency,” explains Marie. Advanced manufacturing techniques such as automation, robotics, and additive manufacturing can significantly increase productivity and efficiency, reducing the cost of production and making Australian manufacturers more competitive on the global market.

Other ways in which advanced manufacturing benefits the economy in both the long and short-term include:

• Stimulating innovation. The use of cutting-edge technology and materials can lead to new products and processes that boost innovation and drive economic growth.
• Creating high-skilled jobs. Advanced manufacturing requires highly skilled workers who can operate and maintain complex machinery and equipment. This creates well-paid, high-skilled jobs that can help support economic growth and improve living standards.
• Reducing reliance on imports. Developing local capabilities enables Australia to reduce its reliance on imported goods and services, boosting self-sufficiency and reducing our vulnerability to global economic events 
• Supporting sustainable growth. Advanced manufacturing techniques can also help reduce waste, energy use and carbon emissions.

Modern Manufacturing Expo 2023 brings the industry together

Those interested in learning about the government support and other resources on offer for local manufacturers are encouraged to register for the free Modern Manufacturing Expo in September.

“The event is designed to connect manufacturers with the resources, experts and products they need to become a ‘smart manufacturer’ and drive operational efficiency within their business. It also illustrates for attendees that we have the potential to become a global hub for advanced manufacturing, with our world-class research and development capabilities right here in Australia – and government support only enhances that potential,” Marie concludes.

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Media Release Quantum Brilliance

Quantum Brilliance, the leading developer of room-temperature miniaturised quantum computing products and solutions, today announced an $18 million USD fundraise. Investors include Breakthrough Victoria, Main Sequence, Investible, Ultratech Capital Partners, MA Growth Ventures, Jelix Ventures, Rampersand and CM Equity Partners.

Quantum Brilliance will use the funding to expand international operations, deliver hardware and software products to customers, and improve manufacturing and fabrication techniques. Quantum Brilliance will also enhance the performance of its room-temperature quantum computers and further develop software and application offerings.

Breakthrough Victoria, which manages a $2 billion AUD sovereign investment fund for the Victorian government in Australia, supports breakthrough ideas and technologies to help solve globally significant problems, create industries of the future, improve health and wellbeing, and deliver prosperity and sustainable returns for Victoria over the next decade and beyond.

“We are actively investing in quantum technologies to establish Australia, and the state of Victoria, as a global player in this rapidly evolving sector,” said Grant Dooley, CEO of Breakthrough Victoria. “Quantum Brilliance’s vision of mass producible, room temperature, small form factor quantum computers aligns closely with our mandate to fund ideas and technology in Victoria that will help solve globally significant problems, and we see them as a true innovator in the quantum computing industry.”

Quantum Brilliance’s quantum computers use synthetic diamonds to operate at room temperature in any environment, from data centres to mobile devices to autonomous vehicles to spacecraft. Quantum Brilliance’s devices do not require cryogenics, vacuum systems and precision laser arrays, meaning the company’s technology consumes significantly less power and can be deployed onsite or at the edge. The company is working to further miniaturise its technology, eventually to the size of semiconductor chips that can be used on any device and wherever classical computers exist today, unlocking practical quantum computing to everyone.

Quantum Brilliance believes the small form factor, ruggedised construction and low power consumption of its quantum computers will enable quantum computing to solve more problems for more people. Quantum Brilliance’s technology has a clear path to scale, allowing for quantum computers to be mass-produced. From onboard signal analysis in satellites, to optimisation of decisions in autonomous vehicles, to massive arrays for modelling molecules for pharmaceutical discoveries, Quantum Brilliance believes its quantum computers provide a tangible path to business use cases. Quantum Brilliance is delivering quantum computing systems for customers to operate on-site today. The company also offers its software development kit that includes high-performance emulators, allowing customers and researchers to develop and test quantum applications for future commercialisation. In the race to justify spending on quantum technologies, Quantum Brilliance believes its products and solutions provide a tangible pathway to discover commercial quantum use cases.

“Our technology is following the successful path of classical computers, where integrated semiconductor chips allowed the jump from large fragile mainframes to laptops and smartphones. Our small form factor, room temperature, low power devices are forging the same path,” said Andrew Horsley, co-founder of Quantum Brilliance. “We are proud of our achievement in taking quantum computing from the lab to the data centre has been recognised by the investment community.”

Breakthrough Victoria’s investment builds on Quantum Brilliance’s already established presence in the state of Victoria. Quantum Brilliance established the Research Hub for Diamond Quantum Materials in Victoria, Australia, in April 2022. This Hub was started with leading quantum diamond institutions La Trobe University and RMIT University to enhance the computational power of diamond-based quantum computers with techniques that can transition to manufacturing systems in large volumes. The company plans to expand the hub and continue to work with its research partners to offer industry PhD positions in Victoria to build the next generation of talent in Australia.

Quantum Brilliance has global partnerships in the Americas, EMEA and Asia Pacific, working with governments, supercomputing centres, research organisations and industry. Quantum Brilliance installed the world’s first room-temperature diamond-based quantum computer located on-site in a supercomputing facility at the Pawsey Supercomputing Centre and announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to accelerate the development of the world’s first hybrid quantum-classical computing platform.

Quantum Brilliance and its investors recognise the tremendous growth opportunity in the quantum computing market. Hyperion Research predicts the quantum computing market will reach $1.2 billion USD by 2025, and McKinsey estimates the market will reach USD$700 billion globally by 2035.

To learn more about Quantum Brilliance, visit www.quantumbrilliance.com.

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Media Release by SOCO

SOCO will be hosting the event “Charging into the Future: Modern ERP for Manufacturers” on Wednesday, 8 March 2023 at the Microsoft Melbourne office.

This intimate event is purposefully designed to help manufacturing executives and leaders explore the technology trends influencing the development of contemporary ERP software. Attendees will learn about how new modern ERP solutions, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, can be leveraged to streamline business processes and improve productivity and operational efficiency.

This event is supported by Microsoft and Ingram Micro, the world’s largest distributor of information technology products. Special guest speaker James Buzzard, Partner CTO & Technology Strategist from Microsoft, will provide insights on leveraging Microsoft technologies to grow, scale, and innovate securely. He will delve into technologies that can boost automation and productivity

“This event is a great opportunity for senior executives such as CITs, CEOs, COOs, CFOs or their relevant team members to understand what they should look out for when selecting a modern ERP”, said Priscilla Liew, SOCO Practice Manager. 

“Imagine the ability to automate repetitive tasks and generate a central view of essential financial, operational and business data that can be shared across the organisation in real-time. This is just an example of what a modern ERP solution can do for your business if planned strategically from the start.”

Event Agenda: 

• Technology trends influencing the development of modern ERP software
• How to leverage Microsoft technologies to streamline business processes 
• Driving improved business performance with Business Central 
• How to select the right ERP system and ERP solution provider for your business 
• 15 minutes Q&As 
• 60 minutes networking with drinks and canapes

This intimate event is capped at a maximum of 50 people. It is a free event and it is suitable for companies looking to implement, migrate or modernise their existing ERP system, or those who have been looking to streamline business processes and empower team members to adapt faster, work smarter and perform better. 

To register for the event, visit Charging into the Future: Modern ERP for Manufacturers | SOCO 

**If you are unable to attend the event on 8 March, click HERE to join SOCO’s webinar on Wednesday, 15 February** 

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Media Release by EVOK3D

Johnson Screens, an Aqseptence Group brand, is a global leader in water filtration and separation products. Johnson Screens offers a comprehensive range of solutions for the wastewater management industry, backed by over 100 years of design, manufacturing, service and sales experience. 

In 2019, as part of Johnson Screens’ drive for continuous improvement, their designers conducted a Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) review of an existing filtration belt. The belt screen is used to remove solids from incoming wastewater, as one of the initial steps in the treatment facility.  The part needed to be robust and reliable, and the designers saw opportunities to improve on the part’s efficiency and incorporate the freedom of design that AM (Additive Manufacturing) can unlock. With their manufacturing based in Brisbane, Australia, Johnson Screens went to the market seeking a local partner to supply an industrial-grade polymer AM system that could produce durable polypropylene parts within tolerance and at scale. 

After completing their due diligence, they selected EVOK3D as the partner of choice and the HP Jet  Fusion 5210 3D printing system as the production-ready AM system. 

“The HP Jet Fusion 5200 system is enabling Australian companies to manufacture world-leading products in a competitive and cost-effective manner,” said Joe Carmody, Managing Director,  EVOK3D. “We are now seeing accelerated adoption of AM in the industrial segment and EVOK3D is  right at the forefront of delivering end-to-end additive manufacturing solutions in this space.” 

The HP Jet Fusion 5200 system enables progression from prototype direct to production in a  seamless manner. “We have seen major savings in lead time (up to ten weeks) and, due to the design freedom provided by the additive manufacturing process, achieved a 40% reduction in assembly time,” said Denys Visser, Global Product and Research Manager for Johnson Screens. “This  has led to improved cost and throughput in our Australian facility that we plan to roll out globally.” 

EVOK3D goes beyond the traditional role of an equipment supplier; offering a true end-to-end solution; from materials selection, part validation, system supply, installation and commissioning to ongoing service and support, of hardware and software. EVOK3D is uniquely positioned to provide  Australia-wide support for Johnson Screens, in the initial project implementation and over the lifetime of the asset. “It has been a pleasure working with EVOK3D, …they outperformed the several other suppliers we were engaged with” said Denys, “Their support continues into our service and raw material supply today, and I am glad to report they are not a ‘Sell and Leave’ company. I readily  recommend them in all additive processes and procurement.” 

The recent addition of polypropylene to the portfolio of HP materials allows for the manufacture of robust parts with high chemical resistance at a much lower cost, versus the polyamide (nylon)  materials commonly used on other AM systems. “Polypropylene, a cost-effective yet resilient material, is much better suited for the purpose of filtration,” said Denys. 

The HP Multi Jet Fusion system is a complete 3D printing solution. “We use the fully integrated post-process unpacking solution provided by HP to process and recover the majority of powder without incurring high labour usage,” says Denys. “After this we finalise our parts with a media cleaning  system and 100% inspection.” The media cleaning system is a 3DAutoBLAST, automatic bead blaster developed and manufactured in Australia by EVOK3D. 

The 3D-printed polypropylene screens are proving to be exceptionally durable for Johnson Screens.  “After 12 months in harsh real-world service, it was found that the new components outperformed the traditional stainless-steel filters,” said Denys. Furthermore, Johnson Screens has not yet seen any failures, and the first test panel is still functioning as intended, after more than one and a half years of around-the-clock use. 

But this is only the starting point of Johnson Screens’ additive manufacturing journey. The Center-Flo belt screen is one of many products that they currently produce and will produce in the future. The benefits of the HP Jet Fusion 5200 series will ensure that the use of additive manufacturing will continue to inform new and existing designs for Johnson Screens. 

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Media Release by Caravan Industry Association of Australia

Caravan Industry Association of Australia believes the answer to future regional connectivity is through the caravanning industry, with calls for support on transforming its national caravan park network into a fast charge super network.

Scenes witnessed over the summer holidays in many holiday towns around the country, with lengthy queues and hours-long wait at the local community EV charger, are a sign of things to come.  As we look towards a future with more EVs on the road, our holiday travel and road trips could look very different if we don’t start to act now.

Growing frustrations and the real threat of limited charger opportunities could significantly stifle the caravanning industry, the backbone of domestic tourism, and an industry that contributes over $27 billion per annum to Australia’s economy.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia is calling upon Government and the market to help it utilise its national footprint of over 2600 caravan parks, into a national fast charger, and community generator network.

“As an industry, we see the challenges presented by the transition. We also want to be an active contributor to the solution and with a truly national network of caravan parks in some of Australia’s key regional destinations and overnight transit routes we believe we can be at the forefront of the transition.” said Stuart Lamont, CEO of Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“We are looking to government to support a market readiness report to articulate and demonstrate the architecture and road map for an open market response to a fast charger network provision. We know technology also exists that parks can utilise to not only be a charger location but be a community energy collector and contributor”.

“Early conversations have been promising in terms of the technology options for a network, and we know possibilities to be a major contributor are endless.  Unfortunately, these options require significant financial contribution and a will to be solution focused,” said Stuart.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia is keen to work with government and industry on making this innovative major step in the future fuels transition and is open to hearing from any strategic partners.

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Media Release by Cicada Innovations

Australia’s national deep tech incubator Cicada Innovations has acquired custodianship of Australia’s longest-running annual deep technology conference Tech23 as the capital raised by their deep tech companies eclipses $5.7 billion.

Tech23 and Cicada Innovations have always been united by a shared mission to celebrate and support Australian deep tech innovators, with both organisations boasting a lengthy track record of nurturing some of Australia’s most successful companies:

• Combined capital raised by Cicada Innovations and Tech23 companies amounts to at least $5.7 billion
• Notable companies include: Culture Amp (Tech23 2009), Morse Micro (Tech23 2018), Regrow(Tech23 2017), and Inventia (Tech23 2018)
• Notable 2022 milestones for Cicada Innovations include:
  • Residents and alumni collectively raised $310 million, including large raises by Morse Micro ($170 million) & Regrow ($54 million)
  • Resident SpeeDx won the 2022 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science Innovation
  • Resident LLEAF attracted international investors in its $3.5M seed funding round
  • Resident Invertigro won the InnovationAus Award for Agri Food Innovation
  • Resident Gelion opened a local manufacturing facility attended by Ed Husic MP and Chris Bowen MP
  • Cicada Innovations was chosen by CSL, WEHI and The University of Melbourne as the operator for its new Melbourne-based biotech incubator to drive translation of world-class medical research
  • CEO Sally-Ann williams was appointed as the chairwoman of the Federal Government’s “Pathway to Diversity in STEM” review panel

For 13 years, Tech23 has showcased and championed over 300 of Australia’s most promising high-growth deep tech companies, while providing a mechanism for venture capital, other investors, media, advisors, policymakers, and potential local and global customers to learn about and connect with these companies.

The event, planned for May 2023, will ask big questions about how we build the future – from sustainable cities to game-changing climate solutions and completely new paradigms of human health. Creating a space to connect and spark meaningful conversations about the ideas, technology, and innovators that can propel humanity into a better tomorrow.

Cicada will take a proactive approach to finding the next 23 startups, setting out on a national roadshow in early 2023 to engage with local ecosystems and unearth emerging deep tech voices and give them national platform and vital exposure and support. 

Cicada will also implement a strategic shift from focusing on sectors like “agtech” or “spacetech” to looking at systemic solutions to broader problems, such as “reimagining the built environment” or “putting an end to waste”, to ensure a holistic approach to problems and solution design. 

Sally-Ann Williams, CEO of Cicada Innovations, said: “Complex challenges require complex solutions that come from the intersection of technology and industry. If we wish to take a systematic approach to driving change, we need to start by asking the big questions around the problems we want to solve. We then need to gather the willing and the able around these problems in order to solve them. 

 “We are so excited to be extending the work of Rachel Slattery over the past 13 years, and taking over the reins of such an important event in the rapidly growing deep technology ecosystem. Nurturing powerful deep technology connections is something we do all day, every day at Cicada Innovations. So we are looking forward to building on Rachel’s excellent work to ensure the conversation continues throughout the year.”

Rachel Slattery, owner of Slatterys, said: “I am delighted that Tech23 will now be steered and revitalised by the impressive team at Cicada Innovations, who was one of our foundation supporters. Having Cicada take the helm in driving Tech23’s role in amplifying Australia’s deep tech capabilities is a perfect fit.

“Tech23 has evolved steadily over the last 13 years, as deep tech has increased in prominence. The pandemic alone shone a long-awaited spotlight on deep tech innovation, providing us with a great example of how these innovations must be agile, solutions-focussed, and human-centred at their heart. 

“The magic of Tech23 is the serendipitous connections and cross-fertilisation of clever, passionate people who are helping to build us all a better tomorrow. I am so delighted with Cicada’s plans to supercharge this goal of a better tomorrow in Tech23 2023, and in years beyond. 

 “My hat goes off to Cicada Innovations and the role it plays in championing Australia’s deep tech ecosystem, passionately amplifying game-changing technology, nurturing entrepreneurs, and connecting the ecosystem in a bid to build us all a better future. Tech23 could not be in better hands.”

Michael de Nil, CEO of Morse Micro, said: “Morse Micro was one of the ‘Tech23’ in 2017, and the recognition and platform it provided meant we gained exposure and connections to investors and industry leaders in those early days. Deep tech is often hidden and requires a different level of support to scale, so the fact that Cicada is going to be driving Tech23 forward is great news for early-stage deep tech startups and the Australian ecosystem.” 

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Media Release by Stellantis

Stellantis N.V. and Element 25 Limited recently announced the signing of a binding agreement for Element 25 to supply battery-grade, high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate to Stellantis for use in electric vehicle (EV) battery packs. The five-year agreement calls for shipments to begin in 2026, a total volume of 45 kilotons, and options to extend the supply term and volumes.

Element 25 will source the material from its Butcherbird project in Western Australia and plans to construct a processing facility in the United States. Stellantis will make an equity investment in Element 25.

“Our commitment to a carbon net zero future includes creation of a smart supply chain to ensure we meet our customers’ desire for EVs,” said Carlos Tavares, Stellantis CEO. “Electric vehicles that deliver breakthrough customer experience in propulsion, connectivity and convenience are central to our Dare Forward 2030 plan that delivers safe, clean and affordable mobility.”

The agreement with Element 25 reinforces Stellantis’ electrification strategy, which includes securing substantial supplies of raw materials for battery electric vehicle (BEV) production. Manganese is a key stabilizing element in the cathode of EV batteries.

As part of its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, Stellantis announced plans of reaching 100% of passenger car BEV sales mix in Europe and 50% passenger car and light-duty truck BEV sales mix in the United States by 2030. Stellantis will be the industry champion in climate change mitigation, becoming carbon net zero by 2038, with a 50% reduction by 2030.

Stellantis plans to invest more than €30 billion through 2025 in electrification and software development, while targeting to continue to be 30 percent more efficient than the industry with respect to total Capex and R&D spend versus revenues.

“Stellantis’ support for Element 25’s high purity battery-grade manganese sulphate project is a fantastic endorsement by one of the world’s largest automakers and validates our plans to become a globally significant long-term supplier of battery materials to meet growing global demand,” Element 25 Managing Director Justin Brown said. “We are fully aligned with Stellantis’ decarbonization and electrification goals, which represent some of the most ambitious in the industry and have committed to reach agreed net zero carbon emission goals under this deal.”

Performance of the parties under the binding term sheet is conditioned on satisfactory completion of technical due diligence and a feasibility study.

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Media Release by International Energy Agency

The energy world is at the dawn of a new industrial age – the age of clean energy technology manufacturing – that is creating major new markets and millions of jobs but also raising new risks, prompting countries across the globe to devise industrial strategies to secure their place in the new global energy economy, according to a major new IEA report.

Energy Technology Perspectives 2023, the latest instalment in one of the IEA’s flagship series, serves as the world’s first global guidebook for the clean technology industries of the future. It provides a comprehensive analysis of global manufacturing of clean energy technologies today – such as solar panels, wind turbines, EV batteries, electrolysers for hydrogen and heat pumps – and their supply chains around the world, as well as mapping out how they are likely to evolve as the clean energy transition advances in the years ahead.

The analysis shows the global market for key mass-manufactured clean energy technologies will be worth around USD 650 billion a year by 2030 – more than three times today’s level – if countries worldwide fully implement their announced energy and climate pledges. The related clean energy manufacturing jobs would more than double from 6 million today to nearly 14 million by 2030 – and further rapid industrial and employment growth is expected in the following decades as transitions progress.

At the same time, the current supply chains of clean energy technologies present risks in the form of high geographic concentrations of resource mining and processing as well as technology manufacturing. For technologies like solar panels, wind, EV batteries, electrolysers and heat pumps, the three largest producer countries account for at least 70% of manufacturing capacity for each technology – with China dominant in all of them. Meanwhile, a great deal of the mining for critical minerals is concentrated in a small number of countries. For example, the Democratic Republic of Congo produces over 70% of the world’s cobalt, and just three countries – Australia, Chile and China – account for more than 90% of global lithium production.

The world is already seeing the risks of tight supply chains, which have pushed up clean energy technology prices in recent years, making countries’ clean energy transitions more difficult and costly. Increasing prices for cobalt, lithium and nickel led to the first ever rise in EV battery prices, which jumped by nearly 10% globally in 2022. The cost of wind turbines outside China has also been rising after years of declines, and similar trends can be seen in solar PV.

“The IEA highlighted almost two years ago that a new global energy economy was emerging rapidly. Today, it has become a central pillar of economic strategy and every country needs to identify how it can benefit from the opportunities and navigate the challenges. We’re talking about new clean energy technology markets worth hundreds of billions of dollars as well as millions of new jobs,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “The encouraging news is the global project pipeline for clean energy technology manufacturing is large and growing. If everything announced as of today gets built, the investment flowing into manufacturing clean energy technologies would provide two-thirds of what is needed in a pathway to net zero emissions. The current momentum is moving us closer to meeting our international energy and climate goals – and there is almost certainly more to come.”

“At the same time, the world would benefit from more diversified clean technology supply chains,” Dr Birol added. “As we have seen with Europe’s reliance on Russian gas, when you depend too much on one company, one country or one trade route – you risk paying a heavy price if there is disruption. So, I’m pleased to see many economies around the world competing today to be leaders in the new energy economy and drive an expansion of clean technology manufacturing in the race to net zero. It’s important, though, that this competition is fair – and that there is a healthy degree of international collaboration, since no country is an energy island and energy transitions will be more costly and slow if countries do not work together.”

The report notes that major economies are acting to combine their climate, energy security and industrial policies into broader strategies for their economies. The Inflation Reduction Act in the United States is a clear example of this, but there is also the Fit for 55 package and REPowerEU plan in the European Union, Japan’s Green Transformation programme, and the Production Linked Incentive scheme in India that encourages manufacturing of solar PV and batteries – and China is working to meet and even exceed the goals of its latest Five-Year Plan.

Meanwhile, clean energy project developers and investors are watching closely for the policies that can give them a competitive edge. Relatively short lead times of around 1-3 years on average to bring manufacturing facilities online mean that the project pipeline can expand rapidly in an environment that is conducive to investment. Only 25% of the announced manufacturing projects globally for solar PV are under construction or beginning construction imminently, according to the report. The number is around 35% for EV batteries and less than 10% for electrolysers. Government policies and market developments can have a significant effect on where the rest of these projects end up.

Amid the regional ambitions for scaling up manufacturing, ETP-2023 underscores the important role of international trade in clean energy technology supply chains. It shows that nearly 60% of solar PV modules produced worldwide are traded across borders. Trade is also important for EV batteries and wind turbine components, despite their bulkiness, with China the main net exporter today.

The report also highlights the specific challenges related to the critical minerals needed for many clean energy technologies, noting the long lead times for developing new mines and the need for strong environmental, social and governance standards. Given the uneven geographic distribution of critical mineral resources, international collaboration and strategic partnerships will be crucial for ensuring security of supply.

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