News

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has invested $39.7 million in its Kewdale manufacturing facility in Western Australia, installing a new can production line designed to increase capacity by more than 40 per cent.

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has launched a funding round of up to $250 million to support solar manufacturing and technology development in Australia, targeting equipment and processes designed to reduce the cost and complexity of building large-scale solar farms.

Australia’s manufacturing industry needs a stronger skilled workforce, improved apprenticeship outcomes and more responsive training to support productivity and future growth, according to the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance’s 2026 National Manufacturing Workforce Plan.

Australian autonomous systems integrator Drone Forge has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Arkeus to explore integrating hyperspectral optical radar technology into its autonomous systems portfolio.

Townsville-based manufacturer The Outback Pie Co. will receive around $524,000 in Queensland Government funding to install automated production equipment, with the project expected to create 24 jobs and improve manufacturing productivity.

A $2.7 million industry-led project will develop Australia’s manufacturing capability for certified metal components used in defence, maritime and medical applications, with the aim of reducing reliance on overseas supply chains.

Zip Water’s Accessible Remote, designed and manufactured in Condell Park, NSW, has won a 2026 Australian Good Design Award for its approach to making drinking water more accessible.

Felton Industries’ Tow & Fold portable grandstand has received a 2026 Australian Good Design Award in the Product Design Furniture and Lighting category, recognising its design and engineering for portable spectator seating.

NEOZ has won a 2026 Australian Good Design Award for its Cordless Lamp Lock, a tool-free security system designed to secure cordless lamps in hospitality environments without compromising their appearance.

A five-year CSIRO-led project is testing regenerative agriculture practices across South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales to assess how they could help grain producers manage increasingly dry and unpredictable conditions.