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Biome Australia brings probiotic manufacturing to Australia

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Biome Australia has announced a commercial manufacturing agreement with Specialty Probiotics Australia (SPA), an Australian GMP-licensed manufacturer specialising in probiotic production. The company says the partnership will see Biome progressively transition manufacturing of its Activated Probiotics range to Australia, adding a locally made, competitive advantage to its product range as it continues to scale internationally.

“We are excited to be working with Biome and to support them strategically as they scale, by removing barriers in production and the supply chain and by supporting new opportunities in product development,” Specialty Probiotics Australia Chief Executive Officer Craig Silbery said. “Biome and its Activated Probiotics brand are among the most exciting, high-growth brands in the Australian market, and increasingly in global markets, and we look forward to the journey ahead together.”

Producing in Australia in smaller, more frequent batches is expected to reduce inventory holdings, improve stock turn and remove the extended international freight lead times currently associated with each batch. This is expected to reduce capital tied up in inventory and in-transit stock, while also improving the usable shelf life of finished product before it reaches customers.

Onshore manufacturing is also expected to progressively lift Biome’s gross margin from the first commercial batch and requires no capital expenditure from Biome.

The first commercial batch is targeted for September 2026, with the balance of the range targeted to progressively move onshore over approximately the following 18 months, subject to successful commercial scale-up and transition of production.

Image credit: iStock.com/anusorn nakdee

Propel-AIR applications closing this week

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

ARM Hub’s Propel-AIR completed the final week of its showcase tour with stops in Brisbane and Sydney last week.

Following the success of last year’s program, Propel-AIR 2.0 will once again partner with Boston’s MassRobotics to connect Australian innovators with global opportunities in one of the world’s leading robotics ecosystems.

The last showcases saw Sydney’s Stone & Chalk host a fireside chat on 4 June, focused on turning strong robotics and AI ideas into real businesses. Led by Stone & Chalk CEO Stela Solar, the discussion brought together ARM Hub’s Dr Troy Cordie and Nexobot founder Dominic Lindsay to unpack the opportunities and the practical realities of scaling applied robotics.

The winner of last year’s Propel-AIR AI & Robotics challenge, Lindsay has recently completed the delivery of his second deployment of NexoBot’s low-cost parcel sorting system, helping logistics operators automate a process that is often manual, labour-intensive and costly.

“The interesting thing about the logistics world is moving is between 50 and 60% of labour in any operation. So rather than trying to do things like manipulation that are really, really hard, let’s just solve moving first,” Lindsay said. “Most of the work in that kind of operation is literally people once they’ve got something in their hands, walking somewhere else and putting it down. That’s the bit that makes more sense to solve.”

The conversation surfaced what’s changing as AI becomes embedded in physical systems; where Australian founders can compete globally, and the commercial ingredients that matter most: clear customer problems, fast iteration and the right ecosystem support.

Lindsay shared how Nexobot has already deployed its low-cost parcel sorting system with customers in Victoria, while Cordie highlighted ARM Hub’s role in helping companies bridge the gap between promising prototypes and commercial deployment.

“Australia doesn’t lack innovation,” Cordie said. “The challenge is getting great ideas through the middle, where companies are trying to scale.”

On the opportunity ahead, Solar said the event reflected “the power of ecosystem collaboration” in helping founders go further, faster.

“Propel-AIR gave us exposure, momentum and most importantly, real customer interest. It helped turn a promising idea into a commercial opportunity,” Lindsay said.

Earlier in the week the University of Queensland hosted the Propel-AIR team for a robotics tour showcasing its latest research, followed by a valuable session on IP protection for robotics businesses, with Helen McFadzean leading the discussion.

Those interested in taking part in the Propel-AIR accelerator, to access expert support, industry exposure and the chance to win a one-month residency at Boston’s MassRobotics facility, can apply here by 12 June.

Image: Innovation behind the wheel at Propel-AIR X UQ. Photo credit: Jeanie Kumar

AMS announces 2026 Beamex User Group meeting

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Following a two-year break, AMS Instrumentation & Calibration has announced the 2026 Beamex User Group event to be held on the beautiful Sunshine Coast at Marcoola Beach, Queensland, 17–18 November 2026. The event returns after a high level of support expressed by the Beamex customer base in Australia.

The meeting will be held over two days and is free to attend. With a number of recent and pending product releases, the User Group will allow attendees to familiarise themselves with the latest Beamex product range and discuss strategies to improve management of their calibration workloads. AMS is excited to have this opportunity to work with customers to build upon their existing Beamex user experience.

The program is being finalised and a number of speciality presenters from Beamex will assist in running the program. Other presenters will include Mike Farkas from AMS with further guest speakers to be confirmed in the near future.

Specialty presenters

Mike Farkas, Calibration/Flow Product Manager, AMS-IC
Antti Koivisto, Senior Vice President of Sales, Beamex OY
Antti Mäkynen, Product Manager, Beamex OY
Roberto Guaranha, Regional Sales Director, Beamex OY
Jari Kiili, Area Sales Manager, Beamex OY

The deadline for registrations is 16 October 2026.

What: 2026 Beamex User Group
When: 17–18 November 2026
Where: Ramada Marcoola Beach
923 David Low Way, Marcoola Beach, Qld, 4564
Beach Front Ball Room

Ramada Marcoola is offering a 15% accommodation discount when using registration code AMS-IC2026.

Chinese humanoid robot manufacturer opens mass production plant

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Chinese robotics manufacturer EngineAI Robotics has announced the launch of its EngineAI Intelligent Manufacturing (Honghualing, Shenzhen) Base, alongside the rollout of the first batch of its flagship T800 full-size humanoid robots. The company says it aiming for a 10,000-unit scalable delivery capability.

Spanning around 12,000 m², the Shenzhen Base features an integrated, closed-loop manufacturing process that covers everything from incoming material inspection and component assembly testing to final assembly, end-of-line testing, mass shipment, and after-sales maintenance. The company says a new humanoid robot can roll off the production line every 15 minutes.

The company says the T800 robot is designed for high-dynamic and heavy-duty operational environments.

“From our first test machine in 2024, to the small-scale production of hundreds of PM01 units in 2025, and now to the qualitative leap toward a 10,000-unit delivery capability, we are entering a new phase of industrialisation and commercialisation,” said Zhao Tongyang, Founder and CEO of EngineAI. “By building a manufacturing system centred on quality, efficiency, and intelligent production, we have accelerated our journey from pilot production to mass manufacturing and from zero to scale.”

Founded in October 2023, EngineAI says it has achieved full-stack in-house development across core robotic components, motion control algorithms and embodied AI technologies. Its product portfolio spans multiple application scenarios, including the SA01, designed to make advanced robotics more accessible; the SE01, which demonstrated one of the world's earliest human-like walking capabilities; the PM01, which achieved the world's first humanoid robot front flip; and the T800, designed for high-dynamic and heavy-duty operational environments.

Image credit: EngineAI Robotics

NSW launches Local Jobs First Commission legislation

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The NSW Government has recently announced that local workers and businesses will be prioritised for government tenders, under its Local Jobs First Commission legislation.

The reform puts three priorities at the centre of every government purchase: locally produced goods and services, local jobs and skills, and support for local small and medium-sized businesses.

The government says the Bill has been developed following consultation with unions, businesses and industry groups, which showed strong, broad-based support for reform. During the consultation period, more than half of respondents were small and medium businesses, reflecting the demand for a more level playing field.

The Bill delivers on those priorities by:

A Local Procurement Policy will prioritise local workers and businesses with a 30% tender weighting for local jobs and skills, local content, and small and medium business participation, and will embed training requirements for apprentices and workers learning new skills on major government projects, helping to re-build the state’s skills base.
A Local Jobs First Advisory Board will inform policy that will boost local supplier competitiveness, and Local Procurement Plans will be required for major contracts to lock in commitments to local jobs and local content.
A Local Jobs First Commissioner will champion and monitor local content, local jobs and skills and small and medium business participation across government procurement.

The Bill will also enable a supplier debarment scheme to remove suppliers found to have committed serious misconduct from the government supply chain. The debarment scheme responds directly to the Independent Commission Against Corruption’s Operation Hector report. It will protect honest businesses and ensure public money is spent responsibly and with integrity.

“This Bill delivers on an important election commitment, putting local businesses, local workers and local communities at the centre of how government spends its valuable procurement dollars,” said Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos. “We are backing local industry, supporting small businesses, strengthening local supply chains and building workforce capability.

“This is a significant reform, made even more important in a time of global economic uncertainty.”

“Small and medium businesses should have better access to government contracts. This bill is a positive step toward lifting local procurement ambition by prioritising local businesses via better tender weightings and targets,” said Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter. “It is critical that we make it easier for local suppliers, particularly SMEs, to participate and compete. That means cutting red tape, reducing the time and cost of bidding, and focusing on the real barriers our members consistently raise.”

Image credit: iStock.com/syahrir maulana

EA warns skills shortages remain profession’s biggest challenge

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Engineers Australia has warned that skills shortages and workforce gaps remain a significant challenge following a recent online industry poll of more than 450 industry professionals.

Skills shortages and workforce gaps emerged as the leading concern (44.4%) ahead of workforce burnout and workload (30.3%), funding pressures (20.2%) and project complexity (5.1%).

Engineers Australia Chief Engineer Katherine Richards said the results reflect growing concern across the profession about whether Australia will have the engineering capability needed to meet future demand.

“These results point to a profession that understands the scale of the challenge ahead,” she said. “Our population is growing rapidly. Communities are expanding. Infrastructure demand is increasing. We are building and upgrading the systems Australians rely on every day, from transport and housing to energy, water and digital connectivity. That future cannot be delivered without enough engineers.

“At the same time, a significant proportion of the engineering workforce is approaching retirement age, while participation in STEM subjects, particularly advanced mathematics, continues to decline in many parts of the country.”

Engineering demand is expected to grow by around 20% over the next decade while approximately 70,000 engineers are projected to retire.

Richards said workforce capability must remain a national priority if Australia is to deliver the infrastructure and systems future communities will rely on.

“Engineering underpins almost every aspect of modern life, from transport and housing to water, energy, communications and defence,” she said. “The challenge is not simply replacing workers leaving the profession: it is ensuring we have enough engineers with the right skills to meet increasing demand in a more complex and technology-driven environment.”

To meet future demand and maintain sovereign capability, Engineers Australia is calling for a coordinated national approach to workforce planning, including stronger collaboration between government, industry and universities, expanded industry-linked training pathways, and sustained investment in research and engineering infrastructure.

Image credit: iStock.com/JK1991

MGA Thermal announces major industrial thermal storage project

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

MGA Thermal has announced it has commenced a front-end engineering and design (FEED) study for a 195 MWh electro-thermal energy storage (ETES) project for Tronox, a global chemicals and mining company. The country’s largest industrial-scale thermal storage project is being developed by Australian company Knode and co-funded by a $2.9 million agreement with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

The project will commence construction in 2027 with support GHD. It will reach commercial operation by 2028 where it will deliver approximately 20 tonnes per hour of renewable steam to Tronox’s Kwinana facility under a heat-as-a-service agreement. The project’s initial rollout will allow Tronox to avoid 38,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per annum, with the potential to eliminate fossil fuel usage if deployed at scale.

The FEED study marks a significant milestone for the company’s flagship project, building on the pre-feasibility completed by MGA Thermal and Knode in August last year. The project reinforces MGA Thermal’s industry momentum following its $17 million capital raise finalised in March 2026. This raise, alongside a separate $3.25 million funding grant secured from ARENA for five separate FEED studies, will power the company’s active industrial projects pipeline.

“This project is the first of several we are actively developing, and it demonstrates that MGA Thermal’s technology is ready to scale across industrial and manufacturing sectors,” said Mark Croudace, CEO of MGA Thermal.

MGA Thermal’s ETES technology stores low-cost renewable electricity in proprietary MGA Blocks — modular, energy-dense blocks engineered to store energy as latent heat. The stored energy is recovered to produce process steam on demand, enabling industrial facilities to operate continuously on renewable energy without fossil fuel backup.

“Progressing to the FEED stage is incredibly important, not just for our project with MGA Thermal, but for the fact that it demonstrates a viable way to electrify heavy industry. Keeping industries like mineral processing, refining and materials manufacturing in Western Australia is going to be highly dependent on being able to decarbonise economically,” said Chris Nelson, CEO of Knode.

Image credit: MGA Thermal

Whyalla Steelworks sale enters final bidding round

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The federal and South Australian governments have jointly announced that the sale of the Whyalla Steelworks has advanced to its final stage with two bidders shortlisted.

This process follows the South Australian Government’s decision to place the former owner into administration last year — a necessary step to secure the Steelworks’ long-term future.

The governments say these actions have restored confidence in Whyalla and attracted genuine international competition for a new owner committed to maintaining sovereign steelmaking capability in South Australia.

Together, the two governments are investing up to $1.9 billion in partnership with a new owner to transform the steelworks into a modern, low-emissions facility. The shortlisted bidders have been invited to submit final funding proposals.

The sale has remained highly competitive, with more than 70 parties expressing initial interest. Five domestic and international industrial groups progressed to the binding bid stage earlier this year, with two now selected to advance.

The governments continue to provide joint funding of administration costs at the facility, ensuring administrators can maintain safe operations, pay wages and suppliers, and undertake critical works to improve the steelworks’ prospects of a sale to a new owner.

Both governments say they will continue to back workers and the community as the steelworks transitions to modern steelmaking under new ownership.

“The Whyalla intervention is central to … securing sovereign steelmaking, backing workers, and building the next chapter of low-emissions Australian manufacturing,” said Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres. “This is about keeping Australian steel onshore for decades to come using Australia’s abundant resources and renewable energy to create more value, more jobs and lower emissions.

“The interest in Whyalla reflects what we already know: this is a strategic, pit-to-port asset with a strong future in iron and steel, and it belongs at the heart of a Future Made in Australia.”

“The intervention we led in Whyalla in partnership with the Albanese government has given the Australian structural steel industry a stable footing and the prospect of a strong future,” said Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia. “We are pleased to see two high-quality bidders shortlisted for the sales process.

“These bidders are well resourced and well positioned to deliver what we have always sought — a long-term, modern, low-emission sovereign steelmaking business capitalising on the opportunities before us in the Upper Spencer Gulf and its world-leading magnetite resource.

“We know this massive transition will not occur without some pain — but we must not lose sight of the opportunity to secure this crucial industry for our nation for the long term.”

Image credit: iStock.com/BeyondImages

Researchers turn captured carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

University of Queensland researchers have developed a new method to produce industrial chemicals commonly used in agriculture, textiles and pharmaceuticals with only carbon dioxide, water and electricity.

The first-of-its-kind electrochemical generator offers high‑emissions industries a safer and more environmentally friendly pathway to convert waste CO₂ into useful products, while reducing the need for fossil-fuel‑based chemical manufacturing.

Designed by Professor Xiwang Zhang, Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa and PhD student Rizal Evans from UQ’s School of Chemical Engineering, the generator is powered by electricity and requires only water and captured carbon dioxide to create formate, the base compound for formic acid.

“With basic ingredients and the push of a button, we are able to deliver chemicals that are hugely important for a number of industries,” Zhang said. “It demonstrates that carbon dioxide can be reused, rather than treated solely as a waste product.

“There are industries that need formic acid, and others that have large amounts of CO₂ they want to manage. This technology creates an opportunity to connect those two challenges.”

Formic acid is commonly used in agriculture, leather tanning, rubber manufacturing and other industrial processes. Australia currently imports almost all of its formic acid, leaving local industry vulnerable to external supply disruptions.

Tebyetekerwa said the generator had been designed to be modular, allowing it to be scaled up or down depending on industry needs.

“Instead of transporting and storing large volumes of formic acid, the idea is that it could be produced where it is needed,” he said. “This has implications for safety, supply security and emissions, particularly for industries that already produce CO₂ as part of their operations.”

The researchers said field trials with industry partners would be required to assess how the generator performs under real‑world conditions and how it could be adapted to different industrial settings.

Image: PhD student Rizal Evans, Professor Xiwang Zhang and Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa. Supplied.

Queensland launches tender for additional gas‍-‍fired generation

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Queensland Government has launched a tender to support an additional 400 MW of gas-fired generation capacity in Central Queensland. The tender process, to be managed by Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), will draw in proposals capable of ensuring dispatchable supply by 2032.

Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki said this was another step forward in delivering the right mix of energy infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing state.

“Queensland needs affordable, reliable and sustainable energy, and that means making sure we have the right generation in the system at the right time,” said Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki.

Queensland is forecast to have up to 4.1 GW of gas-fired generation capacity by 2030, increasing to between 6.1 and 8.3 GW by 2035 — a marked contrast to the NSW Government’s drive for 12 GW of renewable generation by 2030. The Queensland LNP government officially dropped the state’s renewable energy targets late last year with the passage of new energy legislation through Queensland Parliament.

The tender process is due to be finalised by the end of 2026. More information can be found at www.qic.com/QLD-Energy.

Image credit: iStock.com/chameleonseye

WA calls for expressions of interest to build defence manufacturing hub

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The WA Government has opened expressions of interest (EOIs) for companies with an international market to establish a presence in Western Australia around the building of an advanced defence manufacturing hub in Western Australia. The initiative is aimed at companies with cutting-edge capability and expertise across defence manufacturing, industrial systems and enabling technologies.

The proposal will explore the development of a large-scale co-located industrial footprint that connects advanced manufacturing, innovation, logistics and supply chains within a single strategic location.

The government says the opportunity spans a wide range of industries, including precision manufacturing, advanced materials, aerospace and autonomous systems, energetics, space technologies and other high-end capabilities critical to modern defence.

The EOI process will run for six weeks to help identify companies interested in shaping the future industrial base and inform planning around infrastructure, workforce development, industrial land, research partnerships and export pathways.

This initiative aligns with Commonwealth priorities under the Defence Industry Development Strategy, the National Defence Strategy and AUKUS Pillar II, alongside the state government’s Made in WA, Diversify WA, and WA Defence and Defence Industry strategy priorities.

“Western Australia is ready to play a far greater role in strengthening Australia’s sovereign defence capability,” said WA Premier Roger Cook. “This is a callout to our most forward-thinking businesses. If you have the capability, ambition and an existing global market, we want you helping to build this precinct from the ground up.”

“Advanced manufacturing is a key part of diversifying WA’s economy, and this initiative has the potential to position our state as a nationally significant centre for sovereign industrial capability,” said Manufacturing Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson. “By attracting investment, technology and collaboration we can help build a stronger manufacturing future for Western Australia.”

Expressions of Interest will close on 8 July. More information can be found here.

Image credit: iStock.com/da-kuk

Corvus Technology opens Victorian manufacturing facility

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Corvus Technology Solutions has opened its new advanced manufacturing facility in Victoria, establishing a new defence manufacturing capability in Victoria, supported by successful collaboration with South Korean partners and a growing local industrial base.

The facility will support Corvus’ UAV launcher program and strengthen the company’s ability to contribute to broader defence manufacturing opportunities. The latest unit of heavy payload, electric EL10 launcher unit is now being prepared for shipment to a customer, underscoring the program’s momentum and the rapid transition from capability development to real-world delivery.

The company’s in-arm suspension unit (ISU) and launcher programs have demonstrated Corvus’ capacity to industrialise complex defence products locally. Corvus is working alongside major global defence partners, including through collaboration with Hanwha Defence Australia on the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle program under LAND 400 Phase 3.

The opening comes at a time when Victoria is sharpening its focus on advanced manufacturing, supply chain resilience and defence industry growth. The Victorian Defence Vision Statement 2030 says Victoria’s defence sector is to become “a global defence and national security powerhouse that delivers critical capabilities and workforce talent for Australia and its partners”, with a strong emphasis on investment, resilient supply chains, innovation and skills.

“This facility represents a significant step forward for Corvus and for Victoria’s defence manufacturing capability,” said Nick Williams, CEO of Corvus Technology.” What we are celebrating today is not only a new site, but the establishment of real defence capability in Victoria — built through strong collaboration with our South Korean partners, supported by local expertise, and focused on delivering advanced defence technology.”

Image: Corvus CEO Nick Williams is joined by VIPs to officially open the facility. Credit: Corvus Technnology.

NSW announces largest ever boost to renewable power

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The NSW Government has announced it is launching what it says is the biggest renewable energy tender in the state’s history, seeking enough new generation to power about one‍-‍third of homes across NSW.

Tender 8 is seeking 2.5 GW of renewable energy, making it the largest generation Long‍-‍Term Energy Service Agreement tender under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap. The tender will be run by the independent Consumer Trustee, AusEnergy Service Limited (ASL). Once awarded, it will pave the way for NSW to achieve up to 90% of its renewable energy generation target of 12 GW by 2030.

At the same time, ASL will open Tender 9, seeking up to 12 GWh of long-duration storage.

NSW is already on track to exceed its long-duration storage targets for 2030 and 2034. The government is now seeking to unlock 50% more capacity beyond those benchmarks, to build a stronger pipeline of projects and a more reliable electricity system for NSW.

Long-duration storage is critical for reliability, as it allows energy to be stored for extended periods and dispatched when demand is high or when weather conditions are not ideal for renewables to generate power. Eligible technologies include large-scale batteries and pumped hydro projects.

To adapt to the rapidly evolving market and improvements in battery technology, Tender 8 will also be the first to introduce a new Hybrid Generation Long-Term Energy Service Agreement product, allowing applicants to combine solar or wind generation with battery storage in a single project. This will make it easier for investors to bring forward projects that deliver the best outcomes for consumers.

“This is the largest renewable generation tender in NSW history, and it shows just how serious we are about delivering cheaper and more reliable power for households and businesses,” said Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe. “Tender 8 alone will deliver enough energy to power about one-third of homes in NSW, marking a major step forward in our plan to future‑proof NSW’s electricity system. Tender 9 ensures we can store renewable energy, so it can be released on demand when needed, making our grid more stable and reliable.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Bruce Wilson Photography

Arafura Rare Earths to ramp up rare earths mining in NT

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The federal government has announced that Western Australian resources company Arafura Rare Earths will ramp up rare earths mining with support through the $1.2 billion Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve.

The company has announced a final investment decision on its Nolans rare earths project in the Northern Territory, and the Government has provided a non-binding commitment to secure 500 tonnes of rare earths from the project through the Reserve. Arafura will now move to commence construction on the project, 135 km north of Alice Springs, which will mine and process rare earths.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the deal with Arafura, which has led to the company’s decision to expand rare earths mining operations in Australia, was a win for workers and the nation's economic security.

“This is a win for workers and it’s a win for Western Australia and a win for the Northern Territory,” he said. “The world needs critical minerals, Australia has plenty of them, and we’re helping workers and businesses make the most of this big opportunity.”

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Madeleine King said the announcement demonstrated the value of the Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve.

“The Nolans project is a major step forward for Australia’s rare earths industry,” she said.

The Nolans project will produce neodymium-praseodymium oxide, or NdPr, a critical input for high-performance permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, advanced manufacturing and defence technologies.

Once operational, the Nolans Project is projected to supply approximately 4-5% of global rare-earth demand, making significant inroads to building an alternative supply chain in products that have been the subject of supply bans and disruptions.

Arafura already has additional offtake agreements with European, Korean and North American counterparts, and the project has attracted strong backing from key international partners, including support from the export credit agencies of the United States, Canada, Germany and the Republic of Korea, as well as support from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Hancock Prospecting.

Image credit: iStock.com/BJP7images

AMCRC announces additive manufacturing research investment

Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC) has approved its first five industry-led CORE research projects, providing more than $11 million in combined investment to accelerate additive manufacturing capability across key industries.

The projects mark the first major R&D investments under AMCRC’s Commonwealth-backed mandate to strengthen Australia’s manufacturing competitiveness, productivity and sustainability through industry‍-‍led additive manufacturing innovation.

Supported by $1.95 million in Commonwealth funding through AMCRC, the projects are matched dollar‍-‍for‍-‍dollar by industry partners and backed by more than $7 million in in-kind contribution from research and commercial collaborators.

Spanning aerospace, mobility and transport, medtech, mining and defence, the projects bring together AMCRC industry and research partners to tackle manufacturing challenges in advanced materials, sustainable design and high-performance production technologies. Individual project announcements will be made as projects commence.

AMCRC Managing Director Simon Marriott said the projects demonstrate growing industry confidence in additive manufacturing as a strategic capability for Australian industry.

“This is a significant milestone for Australia’s manufacturing sector,” he said. “These projects show industry is investing in additive manufacturing not just as an emerging technology, but as a critical pathway to stronger manufacturing capability, more resilient supply chains and globally competitive production.

“The level of collaboration and co-investment we’ve seen in this first funding round highlights the appetite to accelerate commercial outcomes and bring advanced manufacturing innovations to market faster.”

The CORE Project funding program supports collaborative, multi-year R&D initiatives designed to move technologies from proof-of-concept through to pilot production and commercial deployment.

AMCRC Chair Susan Jeanes said the projects reinforce the importance of collaboration in building Australia’s advanced manufacturing future.

“These partnerships are creating the know-how, infrastructure and industry connections needed to strengthen Australia’s additive manufacturing ecosystem,” she said. “Importantly, they are helping translate world‍-‍class Australian research into real industrial capability and economic opportunity.”

Image credit: iStock.com/iloliloli

PsiQuantum announces Australian site at Moreton Bay Central

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

US company PsiQuantum has announced it will anchor its project to build what is claimed to be the world’s first utility-scale quantum computer at Moreton Bay Central. Early site works have already begun ahead of a formal groundbreaking in June.

PsiQuantum was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Palo Alto, California.

The site is home to a developing precinct that includes the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Moreton Bay Campus, and is the future site of a Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Centre of Excellence dedicated to advanced manufacturing.

“PsiQuantum’s mission to build the world’s first utility-scale quantum computer requires speed, agility and strong partnerships,” said Victor Peng, Interim Chief Executive Officer of PsiQuantum. “City of Moreton Bay provides the infrastructure, scalability and collaborative environment we need to deliver. We look forward to continued partnership with City of Moreton Bay and our partners in the federal and Queensland governments to move this project forward and realise this technology.”

PsiQuantum partnered closely with City of Moreton Bay to identify and secure a site capable of supporting the infrastructure and operational requirements for utility-scale quantum computing. The precinct sits on the site of the former Petrie Paper Mill, which was equipped to support large-scale industrial operations, and has the power and utility infrastructure needed for complex manufacturing.

The project also presents an opportunity for PsiQuantum to help shape a broader, long-term innovation ecosystem, supporting skills development, attracting talent and enabling future-focused industries supported by the next generation of computing.

“PsiQuantum’s decision to establish its project in City of Moreton Bay is a significant opportunity for economic growth, not just for our city but for Queensland,” said Peter Flannery, Mayor of City of Moreton Bay. “This investment will help drive highly skilled jobs, attract new industry, and strengthen Queensland’s position in advanced manufacturing and future technologies.”

Next week, PsiQuantum will open its Test and Validation Lab at Griffith University’s Nathan campus, marking an important step in building Queensland’s quantum research, engineering and technical capability as the industry continues to develop.

Image: Artist’s impression of early design concept. Supplied.

Steelmaker reaches majority renewable electricity

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Steel manufacturer InfraBuild has announced its Laverton facility in Melbourne’s west now runs mostly on renewable energy. Under a new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) activated on 1 April, the mill now contracts enough electricity from a Victorian wind farm to cover up to 50% of the power required to melt scrap metal into steel.

“This is a genuine milestone, not just for InfraBuild, but for Australian manufacturing,” said Francisco Irazusta, CEO. “Today’s announcement marks a major step on our journey to 100% renewable energy across our manufacturing sites by 2030. By increasing the amount of renewable energy powering our EAFs, there will be a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions per tonne of steel that we produce.”

The Laverton mill produces over 750,000 tonnes of steel per year by recycling scrap metal through its electric arc furnace, a process that already generates around 77% lower CO₂ per tonne than traditional coal-reliant blast furnace methods, according to data by World Steel. With renewable energy now powering the majority of the furnace, InfraBuild is taking the Australian construction sector closer to net zero steel.

Matt Kean, Chair of the Australian Climate Change Authority, said the achievement was proof the energy transition was working in the real world.

“Those who have claimed over the years that renewables can’t power Australia’s heavy industry must now confront reality,” he said. “The economics of renewables have moved decisively, and the manufacturers who lock in those advantages first will be the ones who compete globally.”

The Laverton PPA follows InfraBuild’s existing 25% renewable energy agreement at its Sydney Steel Mill and Newcastle Rod Mill in New South Wales. Together, these agreements form part of a deliberate, staged pathway towards 100% renewable energy across all InfraBuild manufacturing sites by 2030.

InfraBuild is also simultaneously expanding Laverton’s production capacity towards one million tonnes per annum by 2028, demonstrating that industrial growth and decarbonisation are not in tension.

All the renewable electricity contracted under the Laverton PPA comes from wind generation. InfraBuild will also seek to secure supplies of biomethane as a cleaner replacement for natural gas in parts of the mill that cannot readily be switched to electricity.

Image credit: Infrabuild

Rockwell Automation releases 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report released by Rockwell Automation, Inc, shows manufacturers scaling AI, strengthening operations and focusing on measurable outcomes.

The annual global report, which analysed more than 1500 manufacturers across 17 countries, showed a shift in industry focus. The report reflected an inflection point for the industry, as many manufacturers move beyond experimentation and towards broader deployment of digital capabilities. Fewer organisations are operating in pilot mode, while more report active use of smart manufacturing technologies to support day-to-day operations.

The global report included 85 businesses from Australia and New Zealand. The key findings from these local businesses were:

95% of businesses think they need digital transformation in the face of recent changes and challenges in industrial technology.
On average, 29% of operating budgets goes towards technology investment.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning (53%) is the main smart manufacturing feature driving the biggest business outcomes.
On average, 34% of operations are currently augmented by artificial intelligence or machine learning.
83% of businesses are confident they could prevent or contain a cyber incident that disrupts operations.
On average, 41% of workforces have participated in reskilling programs in the past year.

When asked about the biggest leadership obstacles in the next 12 months, local companies responded with:

Access to useful data to make effective decisions in real time (36%)
Identifying and implementing new technologies (33%)
Understanding how to manage the next generation of workers (29%)
Leading or guiding meaningful/enduring change (29%)

“Across the industry, manufacturers are facing more complexity and pressure than at any point in the last decade,” said Blake Moret, chairman & CEO, Rockwell Automation. “What stands out in this year’s research is not just the challenges, but how leaders are responding — by making digital transformation a core operating priority. The organisations that are seeing results are those that connect technology, people and processes to turn insight into better decisions, stronger performance and greater resilience.”

Key findings from the global report include:

Manufacturers are moving from pilots to scale: 6 in 10 manufacturers (59%) report actively using smart manufacturing technologies to support operations, while only 18% remain in pilot mode, marking the decline of the pilot-heavy phase that dominated previous years.
AI is becoming the engine of industrial advantage: One-third of operations (34%) are AI-augmented today, supporting functions such as quality, cybersecurity, and process optimisation. Manufacturers expect more than half of operations to be AI-supported by 2030, reinforcing AI’s role as a core operational capability.
Operational intelligence is now a competitive divider: While organisations continue to collect growing volumes of data, only 43% is being used effectively, highlighting execution — not data availability — as a constraint on performance.
Cybersecurity is an operational reality: Nearly half of manufacturers (46%) experienced at least one cyber incident in the past year, reflecting rising exposure as operations become more connected and autonomous. Secure, integrated IT/OT architectures are now foundational to scaling AI and advanced automation.

The 2026 ‘State of Smart Manufacturing’ report is available for download here.

Image credit: iStock.com/gorodenkoff

ARM Hub announces Propel-AIR tour

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

ARM Hub has announced a tour to reach more organisations hoping to join the Propel-AIR AI & Robotics accelerator.

Since 2020, when Australia’s first robotics and advanced manufacturing hub opened — backed by the Queensland Government, QUT, RMIT, CSIRO, IMCRC, World Economic Forum and Fraunhofer IAO IPA — ARM Hub has been providing assistance in the development of robotics and AI in Australia.

ARM Hub said the Propel-AIR initiative delivered real results in 2025, and with commercialisation, marketing and technical support on offer for all finalists and a one-month residency in Boston for the winner, there are applications from every state.

The Australia-wide tour over the coming weeks will take in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney.

Thursday, 21 May, Perth

ARM Hub CEO Professor Cori Stewart and CCO Samuel Jesuadian will attend a Propel-AIR Q&A hosted by Hyperion Systems starting at midday. Hyperion builds large-format 3D-printed components for marine, defence and construction from its Henderson facility.

Tuesday, 2 June, Brisbane and online

A hybrid evening event at UQ covering IP and commercialisation in the robotics and AI space.

Interested parties are welcome to attend in person or online.

Thursday, 4 June, Sydney

ARM Hub will hold a Fireside at Stone & Chalk featuring ARM Hub Head of Mechatronics Dr Troy Cordie, 2025 Propel-AIR winner Dominic Lindsay, and Stone & Chalk CEO Stela Solar. If you want to hear what it actually takes to go from concept to global market, this is the session.

Those interested can register here.

Image: Dr Troy Cordie addressing ARM Hub’s Open Day 2026. Supplied.

CSIRO launches AI infrastructure to help robots learn in real time

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 +1000

CSIRO has built new infrastructure that brings powerful AI processing much closer to where data is created — right alongside the robots and sensors that rely on it.

As AI rapidly moves from digital systems into the physical world — powering robots, sensors and real‑time decision‑making — the demand for fast, trusted computing close to where data is generated is growing.

Cloud-based approaches alone are no longer enough for safety-critical and time-sensitive applications, prompting governments, researchers and industry to rethink how AI infrastructure is designed and where it is located.

CSIRO’s compact purpose-built infrastructure named Vetra is based at its Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies (QCAT) in Pullenvale. It delivers high-performance AI computing in a smaller, modular and sustainable footprint, located where real-world testing and research happen.

Unlike traditional, remote cloud-based data infrastructure, Vetra provides super-fast, onsite processing close, or on the ‘edge’ to where data is generated. This allows robots and sensing systems to respond faster, learn continuously and operate more safely in complex physical environments.

Liming Zhu, Director of CSIRO’s Data61, said Vetra delivers sovereign, trusted AI computing at the edge, close in physical proximity to where data is generated by robots and sensing systems.

“AI is rapidly moving beyond digital systems into the physical world, including robots, infrastructure, sensing and safety-critical environments,” Zhu said. “Vetra enables real‑time physical AI research by bringing high performance computing to the edge, where proximity to data allows systems to respond, learn and operate safely in complex environments in ways that are not possible with cloud only or distant data centre approaches.

“This represents a different form of sovereign AI, where physical location becomes part of the capability itself, establishing a model and associated innovative technologies that can be replicated and exported to other locations where onsite, trusted AI is required.”

Vetra sits alongside Australia’s largest robotics research facility, allowing AI systems to learn directly from real-world testing rather than simulations alone.

Dr Peyman Moghadam, Head of CSIRO’s Embodied AI Cluster, said the infrastructure works alongside CSIRO’s larger supercomputing systems in Canberra as part of an integrated ‘edge‑core‑cloud’ approach, handling immediate, local processing first — before sending data to larger centres for deeper analysis.

“Robots and physical AI systems need to keep learning from the physical world, not just from internet datasets or simulations,” Moghadam said. “Vetra gives us the missing edge layer for this workflow, helping turn real-world robotics data into better, safer and more adaptable AI systems.”

The Vetra infrastructure was delivered with the support of Australian small and medium-sized businesses, including Oper8 Global and XENON, alongside global technology partners.

Vetra includes 48 high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs) which can perform thousands of complex mathematical calculations at the same time on large sets of data. The infrastructure has been designed so it can expand over time as demand grows to meet future research and industry needs.

Image: CSIRO’s new AI infrastructure, Vetra, sits alongside Australia’s largest robotics research facility. Credit: CSIRO.