Australian Manufacturing Week 2026 has concluded in Brisbane after three days of showcasing advanced manufacturing technologies, automation and industry innovation, with organisers highlighting strong exhibitor participation and industry engagement throughout the event.
Held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12 to 14 May, the event brought together more than 230 exhibitors and thousands of visitors from across Australia and overseas for what organisers described as Australia’s premier precision manufacturing and engineering exhibition.
Hosted by the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), the 2026 edition marked the first time Australian Manufacturing Week had been staged in Queensland, featuring six dedicated product zones covering machine tools, additive manufacturing, robotics and automation, welding and air technology, manufacturing solutions and the Australian Manufacturers’ Pavilion.
The exhibition floor featured live demonstrations of manufacturing equipment, robotics systems, CNC machinery, laser technologies and digital manufacturing solutions, with exhibitors using the event to showcase technologies aimed at improving productivity, efficiency and competitiveness across the sector.
Alongside the exhibition, the Future Solutions Speaker Program hosted discussions on automation, artificial intelligence, workforce capability, sustainability and advanced manufacturing trends, bringing together speakers from industry, research and government.
Queensland’s manufacturing sector was also placed in focus during the event, with the Queensland Government using the exhibition to promote the state’s manufacturing capabilities and investment opportunities. According to the government, Queensland’s manufacturing sector contributes more than $29 billion to the state economy.
Queensland Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the event provided an opportunity to showcase local industry capabilities to national and international audiences.
“Queensland is open for business and Australian Manufacturing Week provides an important opportunity for local Queensland companies to connect with industry leaders, attract global investment and expand into new markets,” Last said.
AMTIL CEO Lorraine Maxwell previously described the event as a platform where manufacturers could see technologies operating in real-world applications and gain practical insights into future manufacturing solutions.
The 2026 exhibition also included co-located networking events, industry forums and awards programs focused on manufacturing innovation, operational excellence and workforce development.
