Smart Manufacturing

iMOVE CRC launches $2m impact fund for Australian companies & universities

iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) is doubling down on its mission to deliver impactful transport innovation for Australia, with the launch of a $2 million second round of its highly successful Impact Extension Program (IEP). The fund is now also open to universities. The IEP2 initiative aims to identify and support Australia’s most promising new technologies, products and services in the transport and mobility space. Grants from $100,000 to $500,000 will be awarded to a portfolio of high-potential projects, all of which must be completed by September 2026. The new round follows the success of IEP1 in 2023, which attracted more than 75 applications and funded two standout innovations – microFleet’s OneDock and SAGE Automation’s See Me app – each awarded $500,000 to help bring their ideas to life. IEP2 builds on this momentum, offering greater flexibility and reach. While IEP1 awarded two $500,000 grants, IEP2 will take a portfolio approach – supporting 5-10 smaller or mid-sized projects, allowing more organisations including universities to participate. Applicants must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and can be from any sector – start-ups, corporates, local councils, universities, or not-for-profits with no requirement to be an existing iMOVE partner. Projects must align with iMOVE’s mission of advancing transport systems through collaborative, high-impact R&D. Importantly, applicants must justify their funding requests and demonstrate strong value for money. iMOVE reserves the right to negotiate a lesser amount if a proposal shows promise but requests too much funding. iMOVE CRC Managing Director Ian Christensen said: “The transport challenges Australia faces today require bold thinking and practical support. Through the Impact Extension Program, we’re giving organisations the tools to turn breakthrough ideas into real-world solutions that improve how we move, live, and connect.” He added: “We know there’s no shortage of talent or ideas in this country. […]

From gap year to great career: Manufacturing sector offers opportunities for school leavers

As school leavers weigh their next move, champions of Hunter industry are encouraging gap year students to consider a future in manufacturing – an industry at the heart of Australia’s energy transition, defence capability and economic growth. Hunter Manufacturing Awards Chair Jacqui Daley says the Hunter is manufacturing heartland and the industry continues to go from strength to strength making it a fantastic career option. “As the Australian Government rolls out its A Future Made in Australia strategy, manufacturing is experiencing a major resurgence. From renewable energy to advanced defence tech, the demand for skilled workers has never been higher. “Harnessing solar, wind and hydro power requires infrastructure – and that starts with parts manufactured right here in the Hunter,” Daley said. “Just last month we saw our HMA start-up of the year, Allegro Energy, be granted a US patent for its micro-emulsion electrolyte technology and this is just one of many inspiring local businesses succeeding on a global stage.” “What is clear is that innovation is just as likely to come from a component maker in Cardiff as it is from a capital city think tank.” With more than 250 apprentices and trainees currently placed across 50 organisations and three States – and 75% of those roles in manufacturing – one Hunter-based training group is offering young people a chance to kickstart their careers through hands-on training and real-world skills. Hunter Manufacturing Awards board member and Chief Operating Officer of Hunter Career Connections Nick Couper says students taking a gap year should explore the opportunities on offer in the local manufacturing sector. “For many school leavers, early acceptance into university has meant a real narrowing of focus to the different learning and career pathways that are available. We want to encourage young people to explore the other opportunities available […]

Federal Budget steady for STEM: Tech Academy awaits next steps

Investments in Australian innovation are a must to help the nation become a key global player in research and development. The Federal Budget picks a welcome winner in green metals, leveraging Australia’s abundant, cheap renewable energy to produce the metals of the future. The green metals industry is a leading example of a deep legacy of Australian innovation. The tax cuts, energy bill credits and even the beer excise freeze, provide some relief for the cost of living. These are not, however, the policies that will power long-term economic growth. Bold initiatives that will shape a resilient economy of the future – such as a commitment to re-thinking Australian R&D investment through the Strategic Examination of Research and Development; the Universities Accord; and the Diversity in STEM reviews – were ignored in tonight’s budget. ATSE continues to call for significant, bipartisan, sector-wide investments in science, technology and innovation to safeguard Australia’s economy into the future. ATSE CEO Kylie Walker said: “Investments in future Australian innovators and innovations are a must to help the nation become a key global player in research and development. Bold initiatives that will shape the resilient economy of the future need ample resourcing.” “The green metals announcements build on the Future Made in Australia agenda that has guided the past few years. Australia’s future economic resilience will be narrow if it is not built on investments in innovation and STEM skills as drivers of economic prosperity.” Ms Walker welcomed the announcement of investments in key science and technology infrastructure and workforce, providing crucial ongoing support for the national R&D agency CSIRO, and in the areas of nuclear medicine, biosecurity and the National Measurement Institute. “ATSE also welcomes the new investment in public schooling, including in science and engineering education,” she said. As Australia heads into […]

Internationally patented PHA bioplastics meet world-class sustainable packaging design

A powerful partnership between two award-winning industry leaders – EcoPHA, a biotechnology pioneer in PHA bioplastics, and Terra Sol, a design-driven leader in compostable packaging – is setting a new global standard for sustainable materials. By merging scientific breakthroughs with cutting-edge product design, EcoPHA and Terra Sol are delivering truly home-compostable, commercially viable alternatives to fossil-fuel plastics, helping businesses future-proof against environmental regulations and consumer demand for plastic-free solutions. A Scientific & Design Breakthrough: The First PHA from Pongamia Oil Through its globally patented process, EcoPHA has developed the ability to convert non-edible Pongamia oil, derived from the resilient Pongamia tree, into PHA bioplastics, a fully home-compostable, non-toxic alternative to traditional plastics. This game-changing innovation aligns with global sustainability targets, offering industries such as packaging, food service, mining and manufacturing a cost-effective, circular solution for reducing plastic waste. Meanwhile, Terra Sol’s expertise in designing and commercialising sustainable packaging ensures that PHA moves beyond the lab and into practical, scalable applications for businesses worldwide. “EcoPHA’s technology is world-first, but technology alone doesn’t drive change – people do. That’s why our partnership with them is so powerful,” said Louise Sykes, CEO of Terra Sol. “Together, we’re making it easier for businesses to adopt truly sustainable solutions without compromising performance or affordability.” A Game-Changer in Bioplastics & Sustainable Packaging By combining award-winning biotechnology and world-class product design, EcoPHA and Terra Sol deliver the first truly scalable compostable packaging solution that balances sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and real-world usability: -100% Home Compostable (AS 5810 Certified) – Unlike PLA and other industrial bioplastics, PHA breaks down naturally in compost, soil, and marine environments, leaving zero microplastics. -Cost-Effective & Scalable – Terra Sol has designed PHA-based cups, lids, straws, and cutlery for mass adoption, proving that businesses don’t have to choose between affordability and sustainability. -Carbon Credit Potential […]

New pilot program to strengthen regional manufacturing

The NSW Government is continuing its commitment to rebuild the state’s manufacturing industry with the launch of an $800,000 pilot program aimed at boosting productivity, reducing costs and increasing competitiveness. The Lean Manufacturing Pilot Program will provide small-to-medium-sized manufacturers across regional NSW with funding to undertake audits by professional consultants that will identify ways to re-organise their manufacturing operations. Lean manufacturing is an internationally recognised business management process that revolves around the principles of continuous improvement, waste elimination, and a customer-centric approach. It focuses on creating products more efficiently by eliminating unnecessary steps, saving time and using fewer materials in the production process. This approach helps businesses produce goods with fewer resources, without compromising on quality. More efficient processes mean production lines manufacture fewer products with defects, which in turn reduces operating costs related to providing returns and waste disposal. For example, a regional food manufacturer might reorganise production lines to improve efficiency, implement preventative maintenance to reduce equipment breakdowns and implement just-in-time inventory management to reduce excess stock and waste. The audits, undertaken as part of the program, will offer tailored recommendations to help businesses identify inefficiencies, streamline operations, reduce waste and increase productivity, while also highlighting training opportunities for staff. Several major companies have successfully implemented lean manufacturing to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance productivity over the past decades including Toyota, Ford Motor Company, Boeing, General Electric and Nike. Many regional NSW companies such as the Bega Group in Bega, Donaldson Australia on the Central Coast, Belmore Engineering at Tamworth, Flavourtech in Griffith and Tyree Transformers at Braemar have also successfully used lean manufacturing principles. Manufacturing is a key driver of the NSW economy, contributing nearly 30 per cent of Australia’s total manufacturing output. In regional NSW, the sector generates $32 billion in sales and employs 84,000 […]

Whyalla can be upgraded to green steel and why we need to keep steel production in Australia

Daniel Rossetto, Adjunct, Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Resources, University of Adelaide Financial challenges at the Whyalla steelworks in South Australia have reignited debate about the nation’s steel industry and its future. Australians should have access to quality steel at competitive prices. The domestic steel production industry employs tens of thousands of people. The state and federal governments have stepped in, however, announcing a A$1.9 billion support package for Whyalla, together with a new $1 billion green iron investment fund. Half of the new fund will be allocated to Whyalla to support its transition to green steel production. That’s a large amount of money for a privately owned business. So, are the new packages going to be money well spent? To answer that question, let’s examine the priorities. A national priority Steel is an industry in which securing sovereign production capability is crucial. Sovereign capability means ensuring an industry can survive external shocks such as interruptions to shipping routes or disputes with other countries in the supply chain. Steel is a vital input for defence industries such as ship and submarine building. What could be said of a country’s autonomy – or its sovereign capability – if it relies on others for the steel needed for its defence? Whyalla is one of the two largest steelworks in Australia, the other being BlueScope’s Port Kembla plant. At least at first glance, the green iron investment fund seems to deal with the sovereign capability criterion well enough. Whyalla appears an ideal candidate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, and SA Premier Peter Malinauskas visit Whyalla Steelworks in Whyalla last week. Isabella Ward/AAP However, the public subsidy is large. The subsidised plant’s ability to operate in an economically competitive manner needs to be examined. Further, while the Whyalla plant began its life as a supplier to an adjacent shipbuilding operation, […]

The Global Impact of U.S. Trade Tariffs: Aluminium and Steel

Daniel Kohut, Vice President, Industry Strategy, Blue Yonder As of February 11th, the Trump administration announced worldwide tariffs of 25 percent on aluminium and steel imports, which form a major part of Australia’s economy. The Trump administration’s proposed increase in tariffs on imports in other areas—ranging from 60% to 100% for China, for example—is sending shockwaves through industries worldwide, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. With China serving as a global manufacturing hub, companies are grappling with rising costs, supply chain reconfigurations, and market volatility. Industry leaders from manufacturing, automotive, industrials, high tech, and life sciences share their perspectives on the implications of these tariffs and the strategies companies must adopt to mitigate risks. Blue Yonder’s industry leaders across manufacturing, automotive, industrials, high tech, and life sciences share their perspectives on the implications of these tariffs and the strategies companies must adopt to mitigate risks. In most cases the economic impacts are likely to be severe, and advanced technologies and business operational changes such as risk and scenario modelling and inventory planning will become critical to ensure business continuity. APAC manufacturing: Navigating Supply Chain Shifts Manufacturers in the Asia-Pacific region, many deeply integrated with China, will experience cost increases as tariffs take effect. To offset these challenges, businesses may relocate production to Vietnam, Thailand, or Malaysia. However, shifting supply chains can strain existing infrastructure and labour markets, while also increasing logistical costs. Companies will require enhanced visibility into sourcing, inventory, and compliance, with cloud-based supply chain platforms and advanced risk modelling emerging as critical tools for managing disruptions. Automotive: Balancing Cost Pressures and Supply Chain Adaptability The global automotive industry faces rising production costs due to increased tariffs on imported components. Automakers may respond by reshoring production closer to domestic markets, boosting local manufacturing jobs but also raising labour costs. In […]

Breakthrough Victoria launches groundbreaking fellowship program to boost research entrepreneurship

Breakthrough Victoria is excited to announce the launch of the Breakthrough Fellowship Program, a pioneering initiative designed to ignite research entrepreneurship talent across Victoria. The Breakthrough Fellowship Program is a $7.5 million, multi-year initiative aimed at fostering research entrepreneurship in Victoria. It is projected to establish up to 50 new startup companies and create at least 50 jobs, thereby nurturing entrepreneurial talent and enhancing future investment pipelines. The program addresses critical market gaps and aims to cultivate the next generation of startup founders from Victorian universities and medical research institutes. Data from the U.S. National Science Board highlights the pivotal role of STEM founders in attracting investment and creating high-paying jobs. Despite this, internal analysis by University College London (UCL) revealed that the optimal time for starting companies is during the PhD level, particularly when multiple PhDs collaborate on varied research topics to uncover commercial possibilities. In Victoria, however, there is a notable lack of awareness about entrepreneurship and startup careers among students. A post program review of the University of Melbourne’s PhD Innovators program led by the Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre’s Professor Colin McLeod found that 89 per cent of participants were interested in becoming venture founders yet faced a scarcity of investment opportunities. The Breakthrough Fellowship program is designed to bridge this gap. This unique fellowship program is the first in Australia to offer a tangible salary and research commercialisation funding, alongside mentoring and skills development. Under the Breakthrough Fellowship Program, Breakthrough Victoria will invest up to $150,000 per startup. Each startup must focus on commercialising research conducted by the founders or associated university professors. Fellows will have to draw a salary between $60,000 and $90,000 from the invested capital, ensuring financial stability during their entrepreneurial journey. The remaining funds will support additional hiring or product development. Applicants must […]

Convergence Medical secure $5 million from global investors for world-first surgical robot

Brisbane MedTech company Convergence Medical has secured AU$5 million from global investors, closing out its successful Series A funding round. US investor Avicella Capital has backed the company’s world-first arthroscopic surgical robot – named VO1 – which will support plans to commercialise the robot, expand into the US and disrupt the $6.1 billion global arthroscopic industry. The funding milestone elevates the company to a valuation of over AU$30 million, setting the stage for significant expansion and innovation in the global healthcare sector. It also delivers a significant return on investment to angel, pre-seed and seed investors who have backed the company since its inception three years ago. Arthroscopic surgery is used to treat over 50 million injured wrists, elbows, shoulders, spines, hips, knees and ankles each year globally. The V01 robot is designed to reduce the physical and cognitive burden on surgeons while enhancing operative precision and dexterity and is set to transform arthroscopic operations. The funding follows the VO1’s acceptance into the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Breakthrough Devices Program in December 2023, expediting its path to market. Less than 3% of devices submitted to the FDA are accepted into this program. Convergence Medical founder and CEO Chris Jeffery, a medical doctor with an extensive history of orthopaedic innovation, and seasoned entrepreneur behind other notable MedTech ventures including Field Orthopaedics and Audeara, said the investment would help accelerate growth. “We’re thrilled to achieve this important milestone in our journey to commercialisation and excited to be working with Avicella Capital, who are seasoned investors with a great track record in the global MedTech industry,” said Dr Jeffery. “This funding enables us to accelerate our growth and bring our transformative technology to hospitals and surgeons around the globe. “Our mission is to create more efficient, effective solutions that support medical professionals […]

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Improving processes and enhancing efficiencies in manufacturing

James Robinson, Head of Services for Asia Pacific at Syspro. In today’s global manufacturing market, competition is intense. International supply chains, shifting consumer demands and rapid technological advances force manufacturers to adapt swiftly or risk falling behind. For Australasian manufacturers, these challenges are magnified by geographical distance from key international markets and higher labour and production costs, demanding a relentless focus on agility and efficiency. Navigating global market dynamics Australasian manufacturing sectors operate within a complex, rapidly evolving global economy. Supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions and fluctuating commodity prices continue to reshape the industry. According to BHP’s latest economic outlook, major economies are experiencing varying growth rates. Developed economies are stabilising after grappling with high interest rates, while India remains on a rapid growth path. Meanwhile, China’s uneven recovery underscores ongoing challenges within its industrial sectors, though it is expected to meet 2024 growth targets. Geopolitical risks are expected to remain elevated, adding uncertainty to global trade. Industrial activity in 2023 remained sluggish due to subdued global demand and the lasting impacts of the energy crisis. However, BHP projects a recovery in demand for key commodities like steel, copper and nickel by 2025, presenting growth opportunities for Australian manufacturers aligned with these sectors. For local manufacturers, this volatile landscape brings both challenges and opportunities. Higher interest rates continue to suppress domestic demand, but the recovery in commodity markets offers a chance to supply essential components to industries such as construction, transport and energy production. Enhancing agility with ERP In considering the shifting market challenges, Australian manufacturers must adopt flexible, data-driven operational strategies to capitalise on opportunities. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems can help manufacturers respond effectively to shifts in demand by improving processes and enhancing efficiencies to remain competitive. ERP systems help manufacturers integrate essential processes, including procurement, production, […]

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