Member News

Registrations are now open for Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW2025), held at the MCEC on Southbank in Melbourne, 6 – 9 May 2025. Organised and run by the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), AMW2025 will occupy more than 12,000 square metres of exhibition space at the MCEC, with nearly 400 organisations taking stands to showcase the latest manufacturing technologies, processes, and support services. Don’t miss out!  REGISTER NOW Online! What would be better than having a mobile app with you on the AMW2025 show floor with all your selected companies, their stands, where they are and what they are showing? 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 approached. You can now log in to the App, and everything will be available on your phone, networked iPad, or tablet. Search products that are of specific interest to you. View the entire Exhibitor list. Research your relevant Product Zones. Navigate the Show Floor Plan to find…

Wheelchairs for Kids Australia (WFKA) is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organisation that provides the transformative gift of mobility to children in impoverished and under-resourced communities in Australia and around the globe. Founded in 1998 by the Scarborough Rotary Club in WA, teams of volunteers gather daily in a purpose-built factory to manufacture and build wheelchairs based on an Australian design and following World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. WFKA has transformed the lives of children in over 80 countries by providing mobility, access to education, improved health outcomes, and a greater sense of inclusion within their families and communities. The final product is delivered to disabled children around the globe. Without our all-terrain wheelchair, these children would face limited mobility, a lack of education, and no hope of a standard, fulfilling life. Under the guidance of volunteer Factory Manager Br. Olly, a former metalwork and vocational teacher, the wheelchair design has evolved through nine model changes. A breakthrough came in 2010 with the development of a ‘rough terrain’ wheelchair to comply with a new World Health Organization…

South Australia’s wine export industry is thriving, contributing significantly to the country’s $2.39bn wine exports in 2024. According to Wine Australia, exports surged by 34% in value between January and September 2024, with shipment volumes climbing 7% to 643 million litres—the highest volume seen in years. Leading the charge, South Australia accounts for 52% of the nation’s wine production, followed by New South Wales (24%) and Victoria (15%). In 2024 alone, South Australia crushed 1.43 million tonnes of grapes, a 9% increase from the previous year. “Maintaining a competitive edge while meeting growing demand means embracing new solutions,” said Darryl Blackeby, Regional Sales Manager for sensor technology leader ifm. “Automation is the key to scaling up and staying ahead in such a dynamic industry.” Why automation matters While larger wineries are already adopting automation to meet rising demand, many smaller producers hesitate. They often hold back because of concerns about cost, downtime, and disruptions to their artisanal processes. “There’s a misconception that automation takes away the craft of winemaking,” Blackeby noted. “But the truth is, the right systems…

Steel processing specialists and integrators seek versatile, high-performance solutions that can effortlessly manage diverse project requirements and integrate with advanced automation systems. To meet these needs, Kraftech developed the X-Calibre™, a pioneering robotic plasma coping machine that combines precision, speed, and adaptability to accommodate a wide range of steel profiles. The X-Calibre provides a comprehensive solution capable of performing layout marking, scribing, four-side processing, cutting holes, coping, slotting, weld preparations, mitres, and bevels—all within a single unit. Kraftech’s ambitious development was powered by Beckhoff’s PC-based control technology, which offered the seamless integration, communication flexibility, and safety features required to bring this innovation to fruition. Kraftech is a premier provider of heavy-duty robotic equipment. Recently relocated to larger premises in southern Sydney, it collaborates with some of the globe’s most innovative industrial machinery manufacturers. With expertise in CNC machinery, plasma and oxy cutting systems, robotics, and fibre laser cutting machines, the company is dedicated to engineering state-of-the-art steel processing technologies. Engineered to excel in heavy-duty environments, the X-Calibre is customised for demanding projects that require precision and reliability. Designed for mass…

Colterlec has been delivering quality-engineered electrical product solutions for over 25 years across a range of industries, including mining, transport, and energy, with a strong focus on manufacturing, food and beverage, and packaging. Colterlec is proudly Australian-owned and operated and continues to be a leading distributor of electrical product innovations and solutions around Australia. We have a committed and skilled team to support you at every stage, along with partnerships with leading global suppliers to help you find the right product solution. Colterlec will showcase a comprehensive range of manufacturing and automation solutions from leading industry brands, aimed at enhancing productivity and safety in manufacturing. From Moxa, we will present industrial networking and automation connectivity solutions. These smart digital technologies are designed to optimise manufacturing operations and transform industrial processes, enhancing control across essential infrastructure. Next, Phoenix Contact features its Complete Cabinet Confidence of Power Reliability solutions, including connectivity, switching, and conversion technology, designed for dependable integrated systems that enhance operations and minimise downtime. Grace Technologies will showcase its electrical safety products and predictive maintenance solutions to enhance safety…

As organisers of Australian Manufacturing Week, 6-9 May, AMTIL proudly announces a collaboration among government entities and leading manufacturers to promote Australian manufacturing, particularly in the Advanced Manufacturing and Precision Technology sectors. REGISTER NOW! The Victorian Government is leading the charge, supporting AMW2025 as a Major Sponsor of the Future Solutions Speaker Program which will take place from 6 to 8 May at AMW2025. The Queensland Government is sponsoring the AMW VIP Breakfast, and the NSW Government is sponsoring the Additive Manufacturing Zone. Three C Financial is sponsoring the Machine Tool Zone, Smenco will sponsor the Robotics and Automation Solutions, and PFM Works is sponsoring the Manufacturing Solutions Zone. Kraftech is the lanyard sponsor, OKUMA Australia is sponsoring the showbags and this newsletter is sponsored by the Australian Made Campaign. Kraftech and the Australian Made Campaign returning as sponsors only reiterates their trust and belief in what AMTIL and the AMW trade show is achieving for Australian Manufacturing. AMTIL is very thankful for this support, as it would be near impossible to bring this endeavour to its successful fruition without…

Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) is pleased to announce the establishment of a new network under its auspices, the Australian Additive Manufacturing Network (AAMN or the Network), to drive the development of additive manufacturing (AM) in Australia. AAMN is industry-led, driven by volunteerism, and committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainability within the AM industry. The Network will continue the work that was previously associated with the AM Hub, which ran from 2018 and concluded in 2023. AAMN builds upon AM Hub, expanding both its reach and relevance. AMTIL members formerly involved in AM Hub are welcome to participate with AAMN. An alliance between the Network and AMTIL provides a boost to AMTIL’s work with developing and supporting the Australian AM industry. In kind, AMTIL will assist the Network with governance and secretariat support and to host events and other industry development initiatives. The Network will encompass the AMTIL Membership, while expanding this reach well beyond current members. AAMN exists to unite industry professionals, researchers, and government stakeholders to create a vibrant community focused on advancing additive…

Sweet dreams and a sustainable night’s sleep are now a reality following the launch of Australia’s first bed base made from 100% recycled plastic under the brand ‘Circular Beds’. Made in Victoria, the pioneering bed base contains about 22kg of recycled consumer plastic (enough for a king single) from items such as milk crates, garden pots, storage containers, and buckets. It is completely recyclable at the end of its life. The concept of a 100% recycled plastic bed base had its genesis in a question from Tracey Pryor, Director of Innovation at the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council (ABSC), to Dr John Stehle, Inventor and Director of ROBOVOID, being ‘how can we redesign bed bases to keep them out of landfill and make them truly sustainable?’ ROBOVOID subsequently developed the concept into a prototype with the support of Swinburne University, GT Recycling and the ABSC, with $300,000 in grant funding from Sustainability Victoria on behalf of the Victorian Government. According to ROBOVOID Director, Scott Olding, bed bases are typically constructed from low-grade virgin timber, bolted or stapled together, and covered in fabric with…

AML3D has always been at the forefront of innovation, driving the adoption of advanced additive manufacturing technology that disrupts traditional methods and unlocks new possibilities. Over the past few years, our pivot toward becoming a leading provider of Wire Additive Manufacturing (WAM®) systems has set the stage for remarkable growth. With the development of our ARCEMY® additive manufacturing systems and proprietary software solutions, WAMSoft® and AMLSoft™, we are transforming how industries approach production and supply chain challenges. This growth trajectory reached a critical milestone with our successful entry into the US market, underscored by high-profile contracts from the US Navy via BlueForge Alliance. These engagements validate our cutting-edge technology and our strategy of aligning with key partners to address the specific needs of high-value sectors such as defence, maritime, aerospace, oil, gas and energy. Embracing the power of wire additive manufacturing At its core, AML3D's mission is to harness the potential of wire additive manufacturing to address complex industrial challenges. Unlike traditional casting and subtractive manufacturing methods, WAM builds parts layer-by-layer from a digitally designed model. This approach minimises material waste,…

At AMW2025, OneKloudX is giving manufacturers and warehouse managers the power to see every move, stay in control, and prevent problems before they happen—with NetSuite Advanced Manufacturing and 3DLogistiX. NetSuite Advanced Manufacturing – See what’s really happening on the factory Floor. You don’t know a work order is delayed until it’s already impacted production. You can’t track actual costs in real time. Inventory plans are based on estimates instead of live data. NetSuite Advanced Manufacturing changes that with: Work Order Tracking: Know what’s in progress, what’s delayed, and what needs attention before it impacts production; Automated Inventory Backflushing: Material usage updates instantly, preventing shortages and errors; Routing and Labour Costing: Track and control labour expenses and resource allocation in real time; Infinite Capacity Scheduling: Adjust production schedules dynamically to maximise throughput and minimise downtime; Batch Management & Control: Ensure consistent quality and compliance in every production run; Material Requirements Planning (MRP): Guarantee that stock arrives exactly when needed—no overstocking, no delays; Shop Floor Control: Gain live insights into WIP, labour, and machine utilisation, so you can optimise production…

Automation & Robotic Technologies (A&RT) is a leading designer and integrated engineering solutions provider of automation systems in Australia.  The company is globally recognised for its high-speed picking projects and specialist robotic solutions for the food and beverage industry.  Their team of experts have provided intricate systems to support applications such as meat palletising, picking and packaging, as well as the handling of frozen foods, baked products, omelettes, food-grade oils, and even tofu. In 2025, A&RT is celebrating its 20-year anniversary in business and 14 years as an ABB Authorized Value Provider (AVP).  Mike Urban, Co-Managing Director at A&RT said, “We’re proud to supply systems to every large food manufacturer in Australia.  With the support of ABB Robotics, we’ve always been confident that we’ll meet our customers’ needs as we’re working with the best robotic technology manufacturer – the original patent holders of Delta robots and developers of the RobotStudio Suite, so we can innovatively integrate artificial intelligence with real intelligence into our work.” A long-standing partnership, A&RT were the recipients an ABB Robotics lifetime achievement award in 2019.  ABB's AVPs…

The Green Steel Alliance brings together leading research and industry stakeholders worldwide to support a carbon-neutral future in steel smelting. The initiative will foster cooperation, knowledge exchange, and joint research projects to advance this transition. The Alliance engenders joint research initiatives to accelerate the development and deployment of green steel technologies. “Through the Green Steel Alliance, we’re creating a global partnership between universities and industry, offering the opportunity to transform the iron and steelmaking sector into a sustainable and carbon-neutral industry,” said Swinburne’s professor Alan Duffy, pro vice-chancellor, Flagship Initiatives. “Swinburne is excited to be part of the drive towards a greener and more resilient iron and steel industry worldwide and a more sustainable future. Initially founded with six universities renowned for their research in green steel, the alliance aims to bring industry partners and key stakeholders around the world to this platform to promote a carbon-neutral ironmaking and steelmaking future. Swinburne University of Technology experts are at the forefront of the green steel revolution, developing new methods to advance a net zero emissions future…

As manufacturing environments evolve and competition increases, businesses face growing pressure to enhance precision, reduce waste, and improve production efficiency. At booth MT510, Performatec will showcase live demonstrations of state-of-the-art waterjet and fibre laser cutting systems, providing a first-hand look at solutions designed to optimise production workflows. Live demonstrations of advanced cutting systems Performatec's live demonstrations will highlight how advanced cutting technology is improving precision, efficiency, and material versatility in modern manufacturing. The display at booth MT510 will focus on two leading-edge cutting solutions: Waterjet cutting – the most versatile machine for clean, accurate cutting of thick metals including mild steel, heat soak plate, aluminium, stainless, brass, copper and composites, offering precise cutting without heat-affected zones. Fibre laser cutting – designed for high-speed sheet metal processing, delivering exceptional accuracy with reduced operational costs. These demonstrations will provide attendees with practical insights into how these technologies can be integrated into different manufacturing environments. Expert insights from industry specialists Beyond the live demonstrations, Performatec's CNC machinery specialists will be available to discuss the technical and operational aspects of integrating advanced cutting solutions. Attendees…