Leaders from peak industry associations, large companies, research organisations and universities joined with Government representatives in Canberra on 31 July, for a round table meeting looking at further ways to boost Australian manufacturing, grow the economy and create jobs.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the roundtable demonstrated the Government’s commitment to manufacturing and willingness to work with all stakeholders to grow the economy and create more jobs.
“Australia’s manufacturing industries are a vital element of our economy, they’re a big employer and producer of products and services,” Minister Andrews said. “Manufacturing creates value across the economy through its demand for research and development, design and engineering services, production, logistics and after sales service. “The Morrison Government is determined to build on our strengths, grasp new opportunities, and create high value jobs for Australians.”
The meeting discussed ways to enable the transformation of Australia’s traditional and emerging manufacturing industries, to build the industry’s competitive advantage, and help Australian manufacturers thrive in global markets and value chains. Improving the uptake of technology, developing the skills of the workforce, increasing manuacturers’ export focus and enhancing productivity were also key points of consideration.
The roundtable builds on the Federal Government’s commitment to create a $160m Manufacturing Modernisation Fund and support for manufacturing exporters through $5m for a reinvigorated Australian Made campaign.