Special Interest Archives - Australian Manufacturing https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/special-interest/ Australian Manufacturing News. Events, Resources and Information Wed, 04 Sep 2024 01:52:06 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/au.png Special Interest Archives - Australian Manufacturing https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/special-interest/ 32 32 Strategic water use in manufacturing: A blueprint for Australia’s future https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/strategic-water-use-in-manufacturing-a-blueprint-for-australias-future/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=strategic-water-use-in-manufacturing-a-blueprint-for-australias-future Wed, 04 Sep 2024 01:52:06 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=179875 As the world pivots towards sustainability, Australia’s manufacturing sector faces significant challenges in ensuring long-term water security. 

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As the world pivots towards sustainability, Australia’s manufacturing sector faces significant challenges in ensuring long-term water security. 

Kristi McLachlan, regional director, Water Australia Asia at Hatch, a global engineering and project delivery firm, has shared her insights on the critical role of water management in driving the success and sustainability of manufacturing in Australia.

Lack of holistic water security perspective

Australia’s manufacturing sector is grappling with a fundamental challenge: the nation lacks a whole-of-society perspective on water security, not just for drinking but also for industrial and commercial needs. 

McLachlan emphasised that this is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed immediately and into the future. “With the focus on a Future Made in Australia driving the renewables transition and the move to ‘net zero,’ water is a fundamental piece of the puzzle in the production of hydrogen and in the supply chain for transmission, generation, and storage,” she said.

One of the most concerning aspects, according to McLachlan, is the tendency to use water for one activity, only to create a cascade of other issues. “Our modus operandi is to shift risks rather than solve problems,” she explained. 

For instance, the sector often overlooks the potential of wastewater, which is typically discharged into the environment or stored in large dams.

McLachlan urged a rethink: “Wastewater is still a resource – it doesn’t necessarily have an ‘end of useful life.’ Other manufacturing industry players or even operators in other industries may have a use for it.”

The critical role of water in manufacturing sustainability

The urgency of prioritising water management cannot be overstated. As Australia drives towards an energy transition, the demand for water is increasing, particularly in the production of green hydrogen. “We’ve seen projects stopped due to the lack of consideration of water sources,” McLachlan noted. 

The push for rain-independent water sources, such as desalination plants, is growing, but these solutions are capital and power-intensive.

Moreover, McLachlan highlighted the growing importance of supply chain transparency from a social licensing perspective. 

“Water consumption and management is becoming increasingly a part of that consideration,” she said, adding that water authorities are tightening regulations on contaminants and organic matter in trade waste discharge, significantly driving up operating costs.

Quantifying water requirements in manufacturing

Water requirements vary across different manufacturing processes, influenced by factors such as climate, geography, and technology. McLachlan provided detailed insights into the water usage associated with various industries:

  • Clothing production: The textile industry is notoriously water-intensive, with approximately 2,700 litres of water needed to produce a single cotton T-shirt. Manufacturing a pair of jeans takes about 8,183 litres of water.
  • Food manufacturing: The water footprint of food production is equally staggering. For instance, it takes about 628 litres of water to produce a single litre of cow’s milk, compared to 371 litres for almond milk and 28 litres for soy milk. Grain crops also demand significant water, with 5,000 litres required for 1kg of rice.
  • Hydrogen production: Hydrogen production requires a substantial amount of water, with 9-11 litres needed to produce 1kg of green hydrogen through electrolysis. Cooling water requirements can further increase the water demand, making hydrogen production a highly water-intensive process.
  • Mining extraction: Mining operations are also heavy water users, with 500,000 litres required to extract and process a tonne of copper. Gold extraction demands about 1,060 litres of water per gram of gold. 

Steps to reduce water and consumption waste

Manufacturers must collaborate and innovate to reduce water consumption and waste. McLachlan suggested critiquing conventional practices and embracing new technologies. 

“Examples exist where we are looking at dry processing in mining, operating chemical processes at higher concentrations, and designing for zero discharge facilities,” she explained.

Moreover, the need for industrial processes that use less water should be at the forefront of manufacturers’ thinking. McLachlan advised that manufacturers explore shared practices and resources within their regions and industries to drive efficiencies and contribute to a circular economy.

Managing water requirements for hydrogen production

As the manufacturing sector pivots towards hydrogen as a clean energy source, managing the significant water requirements becomes critical. McLachlan advocates for a broader systems view of water resources, emphasising the potential of repurposing wastewater for hydrogen production. 

“When considering the water required for hydrogen production, a lot of the process water must be high purity. The current sources of high-purity water are almost fully allocated, which means conflicts and potential social license questions,” she warned.

Desalination plants, while providing climate-independent water sources, come with high costs in both capital and energy. Therefore, manufacturers must carefully evaluate the best use cases for these plants to ensure resilience without compromising sustainability.

The future of water security in Australia’s manufacturing industry

Looking ahead, McLachlan sees the intersection of the circular economy and Industry 4.0 technologies as key to enhancing water security in Australia’s manufacturing sector. “We can go better than traditional and conventional water usage and reusage practices,” she asserted. 

The rising costs of water sourcing and treatment are already driving a shift in how water is managed, presenting an opportunity for innovative approaches to contribute to a water circular economy.

McLachlan also highlighted Australia’s geographical advantages and technological capabilities as factors that can be leveraged to ensure long-term water security. 

“Our manufacturing sector is small but tight and open to digital transformation and disruption,” she said, pointing to the potential of machine learning and remote sensing in optimising water treatment processes.

 

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Expressions of interest sought for Wax Converters Textiles https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/expressions-of-interest-sought-for-wax-converters-textiles/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=expressions-of-interest-sought-for-wax-converters-textiles Wed, 28 Aug 2024 22:00:20 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=179714 Salea Advisory, on behalf of Administrator Sule Arnautovic, is inviting expressions of interest for the sale or assignment of Wax Converters Textiles Pty Limited, a well-established manufacturing business located in Rutherford, NSW. 

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Sponsored content by PARISE ADVERTISING

Salea Advisory, on behalf of Administrator Sule Arnautovic, is inviting expressions of interest for the sale or assignment of Wax Converters Textiles Pty Limited, a well-established manufacturing business located in Rutherford, NSW. 

This company, known for its specialisation in textiles, fabrics, canvas, and PVC products, provides key combat clothing and related accessories to the Australian Defence Force.

With a trading income of $18 million in FY 2023 and $14 million in FY 2024, Wax Converters Textiles Pty Limited is supported by a dedicated workforce of approximately 65 employees. 

All assets, contracts, and undertakings of the company are available for sale or assignment, where possible, providing an opportunity for prospective purchasers.

According to the administrator, interested parties will be required to execute a Non-Disclosure/Non-Compete Agreement and pay a non-refundable fee of $500 plus GST to access the sale information package and relevant business data. 

The administrator also intends to finalise any transaction by Friday, 20 September 2024.

Formal expressions of interest are to be submitted in writing by 5:00 PM on Friday, 6 September 2024. 

For further information, please contact Jessica at Salea Advisory through jessica@salea.com.au or via phone (02) 9169 0600.

The information presented herein has been provided by the advertiser. Please note, australianmanufacturing.com.au does not warrant the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the information. Interested parties are advised to contact Salea Advisory directly for further details regarding this listing.

 

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Expressions of interest sought for Cross Laminated Offsite Solutions https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/expressions-of-interest-sought-for-cross-laminated-offsite-solutions/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=expressions-of-interest-sought-for-cross-laminated-offsite-solutions Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:30:48 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=177644 Shane Cremin and Brent Morgan, as joint and several Voluntary Administrators of Cross Laminated Offsite Solutions Pty Ltd (CLOS), are urgently seeking expressions of interest to revitalise the company, offering an investment opportunity for recapitalisation or acquisition.

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Sponsored content by PARISE ADVERTISING

Shane Cremin and Brent Morgan, as joint and several Voluntary Administrators of Cross Laminated Offsite Solutions Pty Ltd (CLOS), are urgently seeking expressions of interest to revitalise the company, offering an investment opportunity for recapitalisation or acquisition.

Formed in 2017, CLOS specialises in the design, manufacturing, and prefabrication of modular and flat pack buildings. 

According to the administrators, the opportunity comprises fully integrated production lines equipped with state-of-the-art machinery.

With a diverse portfolio, CLOS delivers mid-rise, single, and multi-level architecturally designed modulars suitable for various applications, including:

  • Affordable housing
  • Extensions and renovations
  • Flat pack structures
  • Holiday homes
  • Commercial mid-rise or multilevel structures
  • Key worker and retirement village accommodation
  • Site offices and display suites

CLOS has also reported revenues of approximately $4.3 million for FY 2023 and $6.1 million for FYTD 2024. The company has a project pipeline valued at over $12 million for 2025.

The Victoria-based firm employs an innovative business model with automated production and assembly lines, offering an efficient and high-quality manufacturing process. 

According to the administrators, CLOS has a highly skilled design team and experienced manufacturing and construction staff.

Additionally, CLOS operates from a strategically located, long-term leased facility in the historic Ford Factory in North Geelong.

Interested parties are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest in writing by 5 PM on 7 June 2024.

To proceed, you may contact Alex Mendez of Rodgers Reidy to obtain a Confidentiality Agreement and Information Memorandum via email at amendez@rodgersreidy.com.au. 

For more information on this and other assets for sale, visit Rodgers Reidy.

The information presented herein has been provided by the advertiser. Please note, australianmanufacturing.com.au does not warrant the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the information. Interested parties are advised to contact Rodgers Reidy directly for further details regarding this listing.

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Driving Aussie manufacturing through data and AI https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/driving-aussie-manufacturing-through-data-and-ai/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=driving-aussie-manufacturing-through-data-and-ai Thu, 16 May 2024 03:30:56 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=177202 As global industries dive deeper into Industry 4.0, it is becoming increasingly clear that understanding and utilizing data and artificial intelligence is not just a technological advancement. It is a fundamental prerequisite for maintaining market competence and securing long-term success. 

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As global industries dive deeper into Industry 4.0, it is becoming increasingly clear that understanding and utilizing data and artificial intelligence is not just a technological advancement. It is a fundamental prerequisite for maintaining market competence and securing long-term success. 

The recently announced collaboration between ARM Hub and AI platform developer Databricks represents a major stride towards achieving this transformation. In its announcement, ARM Hub said this strategic partnership aims to scale deep technology innovation and modernise manufacturing through the smart use of data and AI.

Under the new partnership, the ARM Hub will use the Databricks Data Intelligence Platform as part of its new AI-as-a-service, which aims to enable easier adoption of data and AI technologies in the Australian manufacturing sector. 

At its core, this collaboration seeks to propel Aussie manufacturing into a new era of enhanced decision-making, innovation and operational efficiency. 

Data is the new oil

Data is more than just numbers and stats; it is the lifeline of business strategy and innovation. In an eBook titled Connecting Data and AI, Databricks said having a fresh, accurate, and comprehensive grasp of data means having access to a deeper understanding of customers, market forces, and internal dynamics. 

This understanding leads to smarter decision-making and strategic foresight that can propel companies ahead of their competitors. 

“The winners in every industry will be data and AI companies,” the company said.

Bridging data with decision-making

It is tempting to assume that having better data naturally leads to better decisions. In reality, the process is far more complex and requires meticulous planning, execution, and continuous improvement of data pipelines. 

This is where the synergy between data engineering and data science comes into play. 

The role of data engineering relies on its ability to provide a solid foundation of clean, reliable data that can be analysed for insights. 

Data science then turns it into actionable insights that can drive informed decision-making. If data is the new oil, then data science is the refinery that converts it into fuel that will drive business growth and innovation. 

Meanwhile, there is also Generative AI, which superchargers the potential of every refinery in the world. 

The impact of Generative AI

Generative AI acts as an accelerator for data refinement, enhancing the capabilities of data science to generate predictive insights and innovative solutions at an unprecedented pace. 

For the manufacturing sector, this means optimised processes and the creation of new products and services that meet evolving market demands more effectively. 

By embracing advanced data-centric approaches, Australian companies can enhance their operational capabilities and also set new standards for the global industry. The ARM Hub’s collaboration with Databricks exemplifies this movement towards a more integrated intelligent sector. 

As noted by Adam Beavis, vice president and country manager for Databricks in ANZ, “Our partnership with ARM Hub represents a pivotal step toward integrating AI with other advanced technologies and solutions to create smarter, more efficient manufacturing businesses.” 

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Key transformations Aussie manufacturers need to remain competitive https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/key-transformations-aussie-manufacturers-need-to-remain-competitive/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=key-transformations-aussie-manufacturers-need-to-remain-competitive Mon, 06 May 2024 06:42:10 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=176924 As innovations transform today’s global industrial landscape, it is becoming more apparent to Australian manufacturers that they can no longer afford to be caught off guard by emerging trends or technological breakthroughs. The ability to adapt to manufacturing’s “next big thing” is no longer a competitive advantage but a survival necessity.

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As innovations transform today’s global industrial landscape, it is becoming more apparent to Australian manufacturers that they can no longer afford to be caught off guard by emerging trends or technological breakthroughs. The ability to adapt to manufacturing’s “next big thing” is no longer a competitive advantage but a survival necessity.

To remain competitive, profitable, and sustainable, manufacturers must learn how to navigate reliable supply chains, fluctuating economic conditions, and intense global competition. 

whitepaper published by Global Shop Solutions highlighted the pivotal changes for Australian manufacturers looking to thrive now and well into the future. 

Increased automation

Previously, when the market environment was more stable, manufacturers could focus on optimising internal factors, such as workforce efficiency, production processes, and business models, to drive success. They zeroed in on enhancing operations and streamlining workflows in a bid to boost productivity and cut costs. 

As today’s industrial landscape demands a more agile and comprehensive approach, manufacturers are faced with the need to shift their focus beyond internal optimisation and include rapid technological changes, such as artificial intelligence and Internet of Things. 

However, Global Shop Solutions’ whitepaper warned against adopting automation technologies simply because they are the latest trend. It is crucial to develop a strategy that aligns automation with the broader business and operational goals of the organisation. 

Making smarter decisions

Business intelligence, also known as big data, provides manufacturers with a comprehensive picture of their operations, from supply chain logistics to customer preferences. Access to actionable information enables business leaders to anticipate market trends, adapt to customers more swiftly, and optimise their operations for enhanced productivity and reduced waste. 

This kind of analysis has become increasingly sophisticated thanks in no small part to enhancements in enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. ERP providers continually add new features and functionalities that enable manufacturers to customize how they view and leverage big data. These advancements include tailored ERP solutions, the integration of dashboards, and data flow automation. 

Prioritising environmental responsibility

As the world’s consumers gain more environmental awareness and governments impose stricter regulations, sustainability is becoming a key focus for the Australian manufacturing sector. 

This push towards sustainable manufacturing involves integrating practices that minimise waste, maximise resource efficiency, and develop products with their entire lifecycle in mind. 

Adopting sustainable practices in manufacturing can be challenging but the benefits are substantial. Manufacturers who successfully reduce their carbon footprint enhance their brand and attract customers who value sustainability. 

Fostering innovation within the manufacturing industry not only prepares manufacturers for the immediate challenges of a rapidly evolving market; it also positions Australia as a leader in a sustainable and technologically advanced manufacturing future. 

To learn more about the “5 Changes Manufacturers are Making Today and for Tomorrow,” visit globalshopsolutions.com

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Beyond insights: How CRM solutions are transforming the manufacturing industry https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/beyond-insights-how-crm-solutions-are-transforming-the-manufacturing-industry/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=beyond-insights-how-crm-solutions-are-transforming-the-manufacturing-industry Wed, 17 Apr 2024 06:35:36 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=176265 The global manufacturing sector is witnessing a seismic shift in its automation approach as companies worldwide, big or small, grapple with the ongoing labour shortage and skills gap within the industry. 

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Sponsored Content for SugarCRM

The global manufacturing sector is witnessing a seismic shift in its automation approach as companies worldwide, big or small, grapple with the ongoing labour shortage and skills gap within the industry.  

Looking at the smart manufacturing capabilities available today, Australian manufacturers may have one thing in mind: how can they tap into this seemingly endless and elaborate web of opportunities to boost innovation and efficiency?  

According to SugarCRM, a leading customer relationship management (CRM) solution provider, integrating enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and CRM may hold the answer to this.  

Transforming information into profit 

A critical component of an efficient and smart manufacturing operation is using data to increase profitability significantly.  

However, to get a holistic view of operations, from customer engagement and sales to production and inventory management, manufacturers need a seamless synergy between their ERP and CRM solutions. This combination is vital in providing manufacturers with a holistic view of their operations, from customer engagement and sales to production and inventory management.  

In a whitepaper, SugarCRM highlighted its mission to provide an easy path towards ERP-CRM integration, eliminating data silos and enhancing cross-departmental collaboration. This bridge can empower manufacturers to quickly reap the benefits of a unified system, enhancing operational efficiency, improving customer satisfaction, and driving innovation.  

Data – one of your greatest underutilised assets 

Integrating CRM solution like SugarCRM with ERP system is critical in modernising operations and bringing customer interactions to the next level. However, the ultimate goal of CRM extends far beyond the mere collection and integration of data. It aims to transform a wealth of information into tangible sales motions that will increase sales efficiency, revenue and profitability. , This requires a nuanced approach to data utilisation.  

According to SugarCRM, sales representatives should not need to waste precious time manually looking into vast amounts of invoices and extensive purchase histories. This task is an opportunity for the CRM to take over and leverage the computational capabilities of ERP, databases, business intelligence, and artificial intelligence.  

Synergy at its core 

One of the most significant advantages of integrating CRM solution with ERP data is the ability to identify relationships between different products based on historical sales data and customer preferences.  

This information ensures that sales representatives are focused on the right opportunities and enable them to provide customers with the most accurate information. As a result, sales representatives can forge stronger customer relationships that help maximise their revenue, profitability and customer satisfaction.  

Surveys have shown that increasing automation and introducing smart manufacturing technologies are among the priorities of business leaders today. This paints a clear picture of what life currently looks like for manufacturers and what the future holds, not just for the Australian industry but beyond.  

Manufacturers know they must take their digital transformation initiatives to the next level. To read more about the critical link between ERP data and CRM processes, tap into SugarCRM’s guide on “Connecting the Manufacturing Value Chain” here. 

SugarCRM is hosting a webinar that will dive deep into the role of CRM in the manufacturing industry.

Featuring special guest speakers from Speedpanel Pty Ltd and a leading industry analyst from Forrester, Inc., the exclusive webinar will highlight what life is like for today’s smart manufacturers and what they prioritise for true customer-centricity.

Learn firsthand how business leaders in the industry can leverage emerging technologies for maximum efficiency and profitability. For more information and registration, click here.

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Manufacturing wrapped up: Trends that shaped the industry in 2023 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/manufacturing-wrapped-up-trends-that-shaped-the-industry-in-2023/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=manufacturing-wrapped-up-trends-that-shaped-the-industry-in-2023 Fri, 22 Dec 2023 02:31:37 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=173356 It is undeniable that 2023 has been a transformative year for the Australian manufacturing sector as it navigates through numerous challenges throughout the year. 

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It is undeniable that 2023 has been a transformative year for the Australian manufacturing sector as it navigates through numerous challenges throughout the year. 

This year, the industrial landscape saw many ups and downs and witnessed evolving technologies, stronger sustainability imperatives, and a greater demand for resilience. 

As we step into 2024, it’s time to revisit the key trends that shaped the industry and explore how we can better prepare for the new year. 

Trend #1: Revolutionising operations with Industry 4.0 

2023 witnessed smart factories becoming the norm, not just in Australia but beyond, with the rise of real-time monitoring and agile operations on many shop floors. 

Industry 4.0 technologies, like Internet of Things platforms, big data analytics and advanced algorithms, the digital twin, and 3D printing, continued redefining manufacturing processes throughout the year and show no signs of slowing down. 

Australian manufacturers are also recognising the importance of upskilling their workforce in digital transformation and automation. 

Trend #2: Sustainability takes centre stage 

Manufacturers are increasingly embracing eco-friendly practices all over the globe. In doing so, they are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also future-proofing their operations against continuously evolving regulations and consumer preferences. 

This year, many Australian companies turned to digital and electrified technologies, from artificial intelligence to electric vehicles, to promote sustainability and combat the climate crisis.

A report released this year by Schneider Electric revealed that 82 per cent of businesses in the country believe that the advantages of adopting sustainable technology far outweigh the associated costs. 

In an era where environmental consciousness is crucial, sustainability is in the spotlight for many Australian companies as a key element in driving the industry towards a more eco-friendly and resilient future.

Trend #3: Reshoring and onshoring manufacturing 

Supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties continue to plague the global industrial landscape, making it more crucial for Australia to revive manufacturing and claim its position by reshoring and onshoring operations.

In 2022, the Australian government introduced a $15 billion landmark bill that would support, diversify, and transform Australia’s industry and economy and position the nation as a country that manufactures. 

The National Reconstruction Fund (NRF) was welcomed by business leaders across all industries in the country, with the local manufacturing sector in particular set to receive a major boost from the funding. 

Marie Kinsella, CEO of International Exhibition & Conference Group, said the investment will help cement Australia’s position as a world leader in innovation and manufacturing. 

The NRF board held its inaugural meeting in September, officially launching the corporation that will help enhance Australia’s local manufacturing prowess. 

Trend #4 Upskilling 

Among many trends that redefined the industry this year, upskilling has emerged as one of the most vital catalysts for growth and innovation. With the rise of Industry 4.0, the need for a new paradigm that prioritises upskilling and re-skilling workers has never been more important. 

This year, the federal government rolled out the Artificial Intelligence Adopt Program, a new initiative that would help Australian businesses integrate artificial intelligence safely into their workplaces. 

Through the program, the government aims to create a network of industry-specific centres that will highlight the innovative capabilities AI can bring and provide specialist training to help develop skills to manage AI. 

It has been proven time and time again that upskilling efforts not only empower individual workers but also propel the entire industrial sector towards a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and resilience. 

The Australian manufacturing industry has been fortified by many challenges and innovations in 2023. As we enter the year ahead, it is important to remember that change is the only thing that is constant and will always be present every step of the way. Thus, embracing the transformative forces that defined 2023 may hold the key to staying competitive in this industry. 

While this list offers a brief glimpse into some of the trends we have observed this year, it only scratches the surface of the changes that occurred. As always, please feel free to share your insights or news from your manufacturing business with the team at Australian Manufacturing.

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Aussie brand Amber celebrates 50-year anniversary https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/aussie-brand-amber-celebrates-50-year-anniversary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=aussie-brand-amber-celebrates-50-year-anniversary Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:00:33 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=172531 Australian brand Amber Tiles is celebrating its 50th year of delivering quality tiles, pavers, natural stone, and other construction and home improvement products designed to inspire homeowners to upgrade their indoor and outdoor areas. 

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Australian brand Amber is celebrating its 50th year of delivering quality tiles, pavers, natural stone, and other construction and home improvement products designed to inspire homeowners to upgrade their indoor and outdoor areas. 

Established in 1973, Amber Group Australia has developed a reputation for providing quality and innovation in the manufacturing world of tiles, pavers, natural stone, cladding, retaining walls, artificial glass, bathroom ware, and more. 

The company also offers customers expert advice and a selection of styles to accommodate their individual needs. 

The brand caters to Australians all over the country with physical stores located across New South Wales, Queensland, and the Australian Capital Territory, and its new online e-commerce platform. 

Amber also has 26 retail showrooms, positioning it well at the forefront of offering cutting-edge products and services to customers for many years, the company said in a media release. 

“At Amber Group Australia, our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has been the driving force behind our success. We’re thrilled to celebrate our 50th Anniversary, and express our gratitude to our wonderful customers,” said Peter Sinodinos, CEO of Amber Group Australia. 

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MSA launches online survey to tackle vocational trainer shortage in Australia’s manufacturing sector https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/msa-launches-online-survey-to-tackle-vocational-trainer-shortage-in-australias-manufacturing-sector/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=msa-launches-online-survey-to-tackle-vocational-trainer-shortage-in-australias-manufacturing-sector Wed, 25 Oct 2023 02:52:17 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=171196 Australia is facing a pressing challenge in its journey towards building a skilled and sustainable manufacturing workforce. With a growing shortage of vocational trainers, particularly Technical and Further Education (TAFE) teachers, the nation's ability to pass on essential vocational skills to the next generation is at risk. 

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Australia is facing a pressing challenge in its journey towards building a skilled and sustainable manufacturing workforce. With a growing shortage of vocational trainers, particularly Technical and Further Education (TAFE) teachers, the nation’s ability to pass on essential vocational skills to the next generation is at risk. 

In a bid to address this gap, Manufacturing Skills Australia (MSA) is reaching out to the Australian manufacturing community for support by launching a research project to gather insights and propose solutions that will shape education policy decisions and secure the future of the industry.

In an exclusive interview with Australian Manufacturing, Leon Drury, the executive officer at MSA, shared some insights into the pressing issue and tackled how their research aims to bring about positive changes in the sector. 

The challenge at hand

Drury underscored that the lack of skilled trainers to pass on their expertise and mentor the next generation of manufacturing workers has significant repercussions for the industry. 

“With industry struggling to attract and retain skilled staff, this has meant that teachers returning to industry to take advantage of better rates of pay has led to teacher shortages across several training organisations,” he noted.

The MSA official also said that without adequate guidance and mentorship, the training of apprentices becomes compromised.

“When we are unable to attract suitably qualified trainers we are unable to train apprentices as there is a lack of supervision and mentoring in training environments. This puts capacity constraints on industry and impacts revenues for states and territories,” Drury explained. 

The path to a solution

Manufacturing Skills Australia recognises the need for immediate action, and by conducting research, the organisation said it aims to uncover the root causes behind the reluctance of manufacturing workers to transition into vocational training roles. 

In particular, Drury said the primary goal of this research is to inform strategies and actions required to address the shortage of skilled labour in the manufacturing sector. 

“MSA will be better placed to provide advice to government and VET stakeholders on how to address shortages of skilled labour throughout the labour pipeline,” he remarked.

Influencing education policy 

While the MSA board is yet to determine the next steps, the research findings are expected to be instrumental in influencing education policy decisions. Drury emphasised the initiative may serve as a starting point for addressing labour shortages and developing a sustainable model to attract and support individuals seeking careers in VET and the sector.

“Information and evidence can be presented to decision-makers to promote policy change and support for people wanting to gain the skills required to become a VET Teacher or trainer,” he stated. 

Engaging manufacturing workers

To successfully execute this research, MSA requires the assistance of manufacturing workers – the individuals who understand the industry’s challenges best. They are invited to participate in a brief, one-minute online survey. 

MSA also said it is actively collaborating with industry partners, peak industry associations, and unions to engage with stakeholders.

“The biggest challenge here is to articulate the impact of the problem to stakeholders and then educate them on options for career development,” Drury concluded.

For questions or concerns about this study, you may reach out to the organisers at research@mskills.org.au or visit the MSA website.

To participate in the survey, you may click on this link. The online survey will remain open until 31 October 2023.

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Verbotics takes the lead in advanced manufacturing after winning the 2023 Australian Technologies Competition https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/verbotics-takes-the-lead-in-advanced-manufacturing-after-winning-the-2023-australian-technologies-competition/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=verbotics-takes-the-lead-in-advanced-manufacturing-after-winning-the-2023-australian-technologies-competition Fri, 13 Oct 2023 00:41:12 +0000 https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/?p=170777 The 2023 Australian Manufacturing Competition recently crowned its champions, with Verbotics, an industrial robotics software company, taking home the top honour in the advanced manufacturing category.

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The 2023 Australian Manufacturing Competition recently crowned its champions, with Verbotics, an industrial robotics software company, taking home the top honour in the advanced manufacturing category.

The company said this win underscores the significant strides Verbotics has made in revolutionising the industrial robotics landscape within the manufacturing sector.

This year, the competition featured an advanced manufacturing category, sponsored by the NSW Department of Industry.

In an exclusive interview with Australian Manufacturing, Dr Andrew Short, technical director at Verbotics, said the company’s accomplishments at the competition have opened up new avenues.

For one, the recognition has facilitated connections with a network of innovative Australian enterprises and advisors eager to expand on a global scale.

With international expansion plans on the horizon, particularly in North America, Short said the invaluable guidance and connections from this competition are expected to play a pivotal role in Verbotics’ future growth.

In particular, Verbotics specialises in developing intelligent software for welding robots. This technology simplifies and expedites the robot programming process, offering several advantages to manufacturers.

The process begins with the analysis of a 3D model of the workpiece, identifying weld locations, and autonomously planning all robot movements, eliminating the need for human intervention.

“We make robotic automation viable where it previously was simply impossible to use, unlocking all the benefits that come along with welding automation,” Short remarked.

While Verbotics clinched victory in the advanced manufacturing category, the ultimate winner of the competition was ARIA Research, a company dedicated to creating technology that converts images into sound for individuals with visual impairments.

Other notable winners included Hypersonix Launch Systems, who excelled in the Space and Defence category and were runners-up in the Advanced Manufacturing category.

In addressing the global shortage of skilled welders, Short said the company aims to empower manufacturers to unlock the advantages of welding automation, enhancing safety, productivity, and product quality.

“More broadly, we can help make local manufacturing competitive which can improve supply chain resilience, create jobs, and reduce the need to ship parts from overseas when they can be manufactured locally competitively,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Dr Short stated that high-mix, low-volume manufacturing brings challenges to the forefront, emphasising that Verbotics has effectively addressed these hurdles with their solution.

“A major challenge is to make a piece of software that can achieve complex welding results while remaining quick and easy-to-use, which is a key focus and ongoing challenge for us,” he remarked.

Short added, “Another key challenge is to make a solution that “just works” in the real world. There’s a lot of moving parts, and it’s important for the software to make the right decisions so the end result is ready to run on the shop floor.”

In turn, he emphasised that Verbotics’ solution offers a seamless transition from digital twin models to complex robot welding, minimising the complexities of programming.

Verbotics has set its sights on the future, with plans to continue expanding internationally and cultivating partnerships with robotic system integrators.

Dr Short said their aspirations extend beyond welding, as they explore the integration of sensors into their solution, allowing users to scan parts and automatically execute welding without the need for CAD models.

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