Capral has marked 90 years of Australian aluminium manufacturing, highlighting its role in the country’s industrial development and its continued focus on locally produced materials.
In a news release, the company said the milestone traces back to 1936 with the establishment of the British Aluminium Company’s Australian operations and the formation of the Australian Aluminium Company.
Over subsequent decades, the business operated under several names, including Australuco and Alcan Australia, before becoming Capral Aluminium in 1995.
The company said it played an early role in establishing domestic aluminium manufacturing capability, with operations at the Granville facility in New South Wales in the 1940s laying the groundwork for aluminium rolling and extrusion in Australia.
The first delivery of locally produced aluminium sheet was recorded on 10 June 1941, followed by the production of aluminium extrusions, supporting both wartime and post-war manufacturing demand.
Capral stated that its operations expanded over time to support industries such as construction, transport, packaging, marine, automotive and consumer manufacturing, with aluminium products contributing to infrastructure, building and energy projects nationwide.
The development of Australia’s primary aluminium industry also formed part of the company’s history. In 1969, the Alcan Kurri Kurri aluminium smelter began production, supplying locally produced aluminium to downstream manufacturing operations and contributing to the national supply chain.
The modern business was shaped through a series of acquisitions and structural changes, including the integration of Comalco’s distribution and extrusion operations in 1995, the acquisition of Crane Aluminium in 2005 and OneSteel Aluminium in 2013, which expanded Capral’s manufacturing, distribution and product capabilities.
Today, Capral operates a national network of extrusion plants, finishing facilities and distribution centres, supplying aluminium products across sectors including construction, renewable energy, transport, marine, defence and advanced manufacturing.
Capral Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Tony Dragicevich said the anniversary reflects contributions from across the industry.
“Reaching 90 years of Australian manufacturing is a significant achievement and one that reflects the dedication of generations of employees, customers and partners who have contributed to Capral’s success,” Dragicevich said.
“Our business has evolved through many chapters. Throughout that history, one thing has remained constant, a commitment to manufacturing in Australia and supporting the industries that rely on locally produced aluminium.”
Dragicevich said aluminium continues to play a role in national development and future industries.
“Aluminium is one of the most versatile and sustainable materials available today. It has shaped our transport systems, our buildings and our infrastructure for decades, and it will continue to play a critical role in energy transition, renewable technologies and modern construction,” he said.
He added that the company remains focused on strengthening local supply chains.
“As a proud licensee of the Australian Made logo, Capral is committed to strengthening local supply chains and ensuring customers have access to high-quality aluminium products manufactured right here in Australia,” he said.
Capral said it will mark the anniversary throughout 2026 with a series of events and initiatives, including site-based celebrations, a commemorative publication and activities recognising employees, customers and partners.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we are also looking forward,” Dragicevich said. “Australian manufacturing continues to play an essential role in the nation’s economic strength, and aluminium will remain central to the industries shaping Australia’s future.”
The content of this article is based on information supplied by Capral Ltd. For more information, please refer to the official company announcement and communications from Capral. Please consult a licensed and/or registered professional in this area before making any decisions based on the content of this article.
