Advanced manufacturers in regional WA can get involved in a new initiative to future-proof the industry and help protect it from supply chain vulnerabilities exposed during COVID-19.
A consortium of universities and advanced manufacturing businesses across the nation are leading the charge to establish a regional advanced manufacturing co-operative research centre (CRC), to bring industry, research and government together to bolster the sector.
Regional advanced manufacturing contributes close to a third of the economic and employment outcomes of the national sector, which employs about 86,000 people and generates more than $100 billion in economic value.
In WA, manufacturing makes up six per cent of the workforce and adds $13 billion to the State’s economy.
Australia has faced disruptions to its supply chain due to COVID-19 and geopolitical tensions such as those in the South China Sea could create further economic uncertainty, Deakin University researchers say.
These issues add to the challenges around climate change, as the use of clean energy increases and supply of materials changes.
These challenges are felt at a disproportionate level in the regions, which already face challenges around access to energy, reliance on demand and skills shortages.
A free webinar for manufacturers, supply chain partners, local government authorities and regional development organisations is taking place on June 24.
Click here to register your interest.