The NSW Government has reported that 59 manufacturing businesses across regional New South Wales have taken part in the Lean Manufacturing Pilot Program, aimed at helping participants improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance profitability.
Launched in March 2025, the $800,000 pilot forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s efforts to strengthen the state’s manufacturing industry.
According to the NSW Government, the participating businesses employ a combined 2,412 staff across regional areas.
In a news release, the government said the program provided tailored on-site audits to help small and medium-sized manufacturers identify practical ways to apply lean manufacturing principles, which focus on continuous improvement and process efficiency.
Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said the pilot demonstrated the benefits of providing targeted support to manufacturers.
“The Lean Manufacturing Pilot Program has shown what’s possible when we give regional manufacturers the tools and support to improve how they operate,” Moriarty said.
“Across the 59 participating businesses, we’ve seen strong engagement, clear outcomes and a real appetite to build lean manufacturing principles into everyday operations.”
The NSW Government said participants reported improved processes and time savings through the program.
Businesses such as Many Fabrication and Engineering in Gunnedah and Ant Packaging in the Northern Rivers identified opportunities to improve data management, visual controls, and production efficiency.
Katie Many, Operations Manager at Many Fabrication and Engineering, said the program helped her team assess their operations.
“It provided the structure and time to analyse our operations in detail, something that often gets overlooked when you’re immersed in the daily grind,” she said.
Ant Packaging Managing Director John Clark said the audit process offered valuable perspective. “The audits provided valuable external insight and the support from the program gave us the tools and structure to turn those insights into practical actions,” Clark said.
According to the NSW Government, 95 per cent of participants were satisfied with the audit process and found the recommendations relevant to their business needs.
Member for South Coast Liza Butler said local participation in the program demonstrated its value to regional businesses.
“Access to tailored business management support is a vital way the NSW Government is helping regional businesses – like those in the Shoalhaven – build a stronger, more dynamic local economy,” Ms Butler said.
Member Elect for Kiama Katelin McInerney said lean practices can strengthen productivity across the manufacturing sector.
“Lean Manufacturing helps identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and streamline operations – ultimately boosting productivity and competitiveness,” she said.
Minister Moriarty said the pilot’s outcomes will help inform future support for manufacturers. “Programs like this are about more than saving time and cutting costs—they’re about strengthening the capability of regional businesses and ensuring they’re better positioned to meet future challenges,” she said.
