Innovation key to manufacturing future: CSIRO
Australian manufacturers must transform their businesses by investing in new knowledge, skills and practices, according to the CSIRO.
The Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap, which was written in collaboration with industry, government and researchers, identifies major growth opportunities and what manufacturers need to do to achieve them.
According to the CSIRO manufacturing is becoming increasingly global, with integration into international value chains vital.
Australia’s manufacturing industry must evolve into a highly integrated, collaborative and export-focused environment that provides high-value solutions.
The sector needs to focus on pre-production activities such as design, research and development; as well as value-adding services, sustainable manufacturing and low volume/high margin customised products.
CSIRO Manufacturing Director Dr Keith McLean said this would require significant technological innovation by public and private research communities.
“The industrial landscape is changing fast. We need to start evolving with it,” Dr McLean said.
“Australian manufacturing has a strong, high-tech future.
“The research sector needs to focus on areas like sensors, data analytics, advanced materials, robotics, automation, 3D printing and augmented – or virtual – reality.
“Australian manufacturers must transform their businesses by investing in new knowledge, skills and practices.”
The Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap calls on Australia’s research and manufacturing sectors to increase their collaboration and alignment with each other.
It also urges manufacturers to place a greater focus on participation in global value chains; Improve their ability to attract and retain staff with skills in digital literacy, leadership, customer interface and STEM capabilities; Increase the gender, age and ethnic diversity of their workforceand improve business-to-business collaboration.
“Industry needs to lead this transformation. CSIRO has the expertise, experience and business network to help guide them,” Dr McLean said.
The Advanced Manufacturing Roadmap is the first in a series of Roadmaps being produced by CSIRO, each aligned to the Federal Government’s Industry Growth Centres.
CSIRO Futures provides strategic advisory and foresight services to industry and government. We help clients create sustainable growth and competitive advantage by harnessing science, technology and innovation.
