March 27, 2024

AMW2024 is getting close now

The wait is almost over!   It’s not too late to register and gather all your key exhibitors, stands, people and attractions. Registrations are still open for Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW2024), held at the ICC in Darling Harbour in Sydney. Organised and run by the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), AMW2024 will occupy more than 6,764 square metres of exhibition space at the ICC, with over 270 organisations taking stands to showcase the latest manufacturing technologies, processes, and support services. If you haven’t done so already, REGISTER NOW online to visit Australian Manufacturing Week in Sydney and plan your days on the My Show Planner. After registering to visit AMW2024, you can log in and tap through to My Show Planner. The My Show Planner online tool has everything you need to make the most of your time at AMW2024 in Sydney. My Show Planner is the AMW2024 visitors-side view of Map Your Show. You can connect with Exhibitors online, set up appointments and plan your time so you don’t miss a thing. There is…
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March 27, 2024

SOCO event in Sydney

SOCO, a leading digital transformation specialist and IT solutions provider is excited to announce its second annual industry event scheduled for Tuesday, 14 May 2023, at the Microsoft Sydney Office. Titled “Breaking down the hype around AI and CoPilot for Manufacturers”, the event offers a unique opportunity for manufacturing leaders to explore the paradigm-shifting potential of CoPilot and AI, diving into the possibilities that CoPilot and AI offer in transforming processes for manufacturers and accelerating growth strategies. This event is designed to help participants unlock the potential of modern ERP solutions integrated with AI and CoPilot features, exemplified by Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. The event agenda includes keynote addresses on upcoming manufacturing tech trends and practical insights into leveraging CoPilot for greater efficiency, culminating in a roundtable discussion format that allows participants to gain actionable strategies, enhance visibility, optimise workflow, and foster informed decision-making in a collaborative environment. Donna South, Director of Membership at Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) commented: “Embracing innovation is essential for the sustainable advancement of the…
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March 26, 2024

From the CEO – Government intervention into rising Workcover Premiums is required

Here I have outlined five impacts of increasing WorkCover premiums and its effects on businesses, employees, and the broader economy. Financial Strain on Business Rising WorkCover premiums can impose a substantial financial burden on businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources. Increased premiums directly impact a company's bottom line, reducing profitability and hindering growth opportunities. This financial strain may force businesses to allocate funds originally earmarked for expansion, innovation, or employee benefits towards covering insurance costs, thereby impeding their ability to invest in crucial areas essential for long-term success. Deterrent to Employment Higher WorkCover premiums may act as a deterrent to employment, particularly for businesses operating in labor-intensive industries. Employers facing escalating insurance costs may be reluctant to hire additional staff or expand their workforce, fearing the added financial strain of increased premiums. Consequently, job creation could stagnate, exacerbating unemployment rates and impeding economic…
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March 23, 2024

Three weeks until AMW2024

Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW2023) is approaching fast! It’s not too late to register to be a part of the action. So many companies will be there to show their best and brightest, their latest and greatest products. REGISTER NOW ONLINE The Future Solutions Speaker sessions for Thursday will begin with a quick-paced run of speakers focussing on the skills and workforce development challenges facing manufacturers Training and Workforce Development support options available for the NSW Manufacturing sector Presented by Stacey Mitchell Bales - Manager and Claire McGregor - Senior Project Officer at Workforce Development, Training Services, NSW Government Future-proofing NSW Manufacturers Presented by Annette Dockerty, Program Lead, SME Engagement The 3D’s Digitalisation, Decarbonisation and Diversification Presented by David K Martin, Ai Group's Director of Emerging Industries and Innovation Training solutions for Industry 4.0 and ESG Presented by Laura Mabikafola, Executive General Manager, SkillsLab and Embedded Expertise (SAGE Group) Sustainability and TAFE NSW training offerings, learnings from Sustainability fellowship Presented by Peter Schreiner,…
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March 22, 2024

BRII grants

The Federal Government has introduced a new round of business grants to startups and SMEs aimed at assisting the renewables and low-emission practices in projects. Minister for Industry, Science and Resources Ed Husic, said recently that companies were invited to submit proposals for ideas that address key challenges in increasing energy efficiency of commercial fishing operations; producing safe drinking water for remote First Nations communities; and researching alternative packaging for the Australian wine market. “We want to challenge small and medium businesses to make a strong contribution to Australia’s circular economy,” said Minister Husic. “These grants are an opportunity to bring Australian know-how to solve some of our most pressing economic and social issues, including renewables and low emission practices.” Funding is also available at a State level to help high-emitting manufacturing and mining facilities in NSW develop and deploy decarbonisation projects, from feasibility studies through to commissioning. Grants of up to $305,000 for high-emitting industries are available. Funding for instance will help NSW achieve significant and sustained industrial emissions reductions by 2030, in line with NSW’s target of net…
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March 20, 2024

Critical cash flow tips for manufacturers

Poor cash flow management can exert significant pressure on manufacturing operations, making it difficult to meet expenses and potentially leading to insolvency and liability for company debts. In light of rising inflation, supply chain issues, and the ATO intensifying efforts to recover outstanding debts, it becomes essential for manufacturers to have strong control over their cash flow. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of cash flow dynamics, manufacturers can proactively manage liquidity and address potential concerns early on. If your manufacturing business is facing tougher trading conditions and tighter cash flow, it is recommended to consider implementing the following strategies and processes: 13-week cash flow forecast A detailed 13-week cash flow forecast is a valuable tool for monitoring both cash inflows from debtors and cash outflows for the payment of creditors. This forecast should encompass various elements such as employment entitlements and historical debt repayments. By continuously monitoring existing and upcoming expenses, manufacturers can ensure the availability of sufficient short-term assets to…
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March 20, 2024

Innovation at crossroads

The Australian economy would be $100bn bigger and boosted by 42,000 new jobs by hitting a target of investing 3% of GDP in research and development, new analysis by the nation’s peak body for science and technology has found. Speaking at the National Press Club this week, Science & Technology Australia President Professor Sharath Sriram will make a powerful case for rapidly reaching the 3% target to turn Australia into an innovation nation, reveal how to create an innovation ecosystem that will secure the country’s economic future, and warn of the consequences of failing to do so. Professor Sriram is a research rockstar and a commercialisation champion based at RMIT. His work connecting industry and researchers has created more than $9m in commercial partnerships for his university, and spurred innovations including smart bedding products for aged-care support, a wearable device for continuous molecular monitoring, and miniature biosensors for monitoring respiratory illnesses. He will deliver the address as the centrepiece of STA’s Science Meets Parliament (SMP). Now into its 24th year, SMP brings hundreds of scientists and technologists from all…
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March 18, 2024

NSW Net Zero

Right now, we don’t have the technology to tackle almost half of the global emissions needed to reach net zero by 2050. To help solve this, the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water are investing in researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs across NSW to fast-track the emerging clean technology solutions we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A thriving clean technology community in NSW creates huge economic growth fuelling new investment, new jobs and new opportunities for businesses and communities. Round 2 funding opportunities are now open as part of the Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative. We’re backing the next wave of innovators that will help us reduce emissions, create jobs and unlock the substantial economic benefits of NSW’s transition to net zero by 2050. With up to $275m in funding, we want to support businesses: get their new clean technologies market-ready; expand their manufacturing capacity to produce low-carbon products and components for renewable energy. Use the eligibility checker on our website to help you select the right funding stream for your project.   Register for one of…
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March 18, 2024

AMW manufacturing opportunities

AMW2024 will begin with all Seven Zones open and active, all 271 Exhibitors enthused and ready to show their best manufacturing technology at the International Convention Centre in Sydney. The first day of AMW2024 will be full throttle. Don’t miss out!    REGISTER NOW The Seven Zones in AMW2024, each with a particular focus, speciality and technology, are: Austech Machine Tools, sponsored by finlease; Additive Manufacturing Zone; Australian Manufacturers Zone; Manufacturing Solutions Zone, sponsored by The Execution Factor; Robotics & Automation Zone; sponsored by IFS Weld and Air Solutions Zone; and the Plastic Technology Zone. The Future Solutions Speaker Program has proven to be a major attraction at AMW shows. These Sessions will also be focusing on these Opportunities as well as Managing Change, featuring experts from various organisations presenting insights on manufacturing opportunities, including ANSTO, the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, Rigby Cooke Lawyers, the Defence Department, and CSIRO. The huge Sydney event will showcase home-grown advanced manufacturing technology. The event will be a celebration of manufacturing in Australia, highlighting innovation and networking opportunities within the…
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March 13, 2024

IGNITE DIGI makes camera mounts

Tasmania-based Ignite Digi first opened its doors in 2014, established by Tom Waugh as in-house cinematographer, and Aeronautical Engineer/Gimbal Operator Chris Fox operating and engineering the drone camera platforms. Originally forming as an Aerial Cinematography duo, they built Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones, and modified gimbal and camera setups to enhance their business offering. Today their products have been used on some of the biggest film and television productions around the world: Including Disney's Mulan, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, Marvel's Venom, Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and many other film, television and Netflix programs. Ignite Digi bought their first CNC machine back in 2017, from OKUMA. “Having just come off a big government job, we were making our own small widgets in our bench to help our jobs along,” explained Waugh. Chris Fox is an aeronautical engineer by training. He self-taught himself the CNC system and the CADCAM process. “We…
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March 8, 2024

The AMW2024 App

What would be better than having a mobile App on your phone with you on the AMW2024 show floor with all your selected companies, their stands, where they are, and what they are showing this week?  The AMW2024 Mobile App is now available to download from your preferred App store, completely redesigned from the ground up, and ready for our big show. Registrations are now open for Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW2024), held at the Sydney International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour. Organised and run by the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), AMW2024 will occupy more than 6,570 square metres of exhibition space at the ICC, with over 250 organisations taking stands to showcase the latest manufacturing technologies, processes, and support services. Don’t miss out!  REGISTER ONLINE NOW at australianmanufacturingweek.com.au First of all, Download the AMW Expo mobile app for your device from your preferred store, and log in using the same details you used to create your MyShowPlanner profile as the show approaches. You can now log in to the App and everything will be there for you on…
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March 5, 2024

AMTIL and TAFE NSW course SUPP

A course run by TAFE NSW Mt Druitt introducing participants to precision machining is being hailed as a success, having achieved a 90% employment rate with local Western Sydney manufacturing companies who supply a range of precision manufacturing parts including for satellites, medical devices and defence aircraft. Machine manufacturing is booming in Australia, the Government’s Labour Market Insights shows a projected increase of 10% of jobs to 2026.  Despite this, awareness of the opportunities available was not as high as demand. The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) -  the peak national body in Australia representing the precision engineering and advanced manufacturing sector – set about bringing together industry and training experts to create solutions. “The role of the program, called Skill Up and Placement Program (SUPP), is simple.  In NSW, AMTIL approached TAFE NSW to pilot a course for people looking to explore new career paths and give them insight, training, and support to become a computerised machine operator,” said Greg Chalker, Corporate Services Manager for AMTIL. “Once the participants see what they can do,…
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March 4, 2024

Quantum Optical

The ANU Quantum Optical Ground Station is a telescope that will support high-speed advanced communications with satellites from low-Earth orbit to the Moon and other deep space laser communication. It will also support future research on advanced communications technologies, providing satellite networks with quantum security and global connectivity. With support from the Australian Space Agency’s (ASA) ‘Moon to Mars’ initiative, the station is being upgraded with the latest optical technology that will enable communication between the station and future NASA-crewed missions beyond low-Earth orbit. The station received major funding from the ACT Government’s Priority Investment Program with additional support from the Australian Space Agency, CSIRO and TESAT. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr labelled the ground station as a key national asset that positions Australia and the Indo-Pacific region to collaborate and compete on the global stage. “Canberra has the capabilities to support space industry success and to take advantage of the enormous investment being…
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