News

Rolls-Royce has expanded its manufacturing partnership with Australian engineering company Marand Precision Engineering to supply naval gas turbine propulsion packages for the Type 26 Global Combat Ship programme, while establishing a new regional Defence headquarters in Canberra.

Australia’s manufacturing sector has been among the industries supported by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation’s (ANSTO) OPAL multi-purpose reactor, which has reached 20 years since first achieving criticality at the organisation’s Lucas Heights campus.

Australia’s cotton industry continues to supply international markets, with crop quality and changing global fibre markets contributing to demand from manufacturers, according to Nutrien. 

Mars Snacking Australia has launched a new Mars Bar Slice product following a $3 million investment in its Ballarat chocolate production and manufacturing facility, which the company says has expanded the site's product development capabilities.

Engineers Australia is highlighting the need to support young people entering the engineering profession, citing workforce demand and concerns about early-career opportunities.

Australian cleaning and hygiene products manufacturer Clean Plus Chemicals has tripled its manufacturing capacity over the past 12 months, following investment in blending equipment, automation, infrastructure, systems and production capabilities, according to the company.

Manufacturing will be among the key industries explored during National Science Week 2026, with events showcasing developments spanning biomanufacturing, aerospace, robotics and quantum technology.

Manufacturing businesses in southeast Melbourne have welcomed the Victorian Government’s decision to pause proposed work-from-home legislation, with the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) calling for further consultation with businesses before any changes are progressed.

Queensland’s manufacturing sector is set to receive a boost with more than $500,000 in government funding supporting the expansion of defence armour production on the Gold Coast.

A Gippsland manufacturing company is set to more than double its annual production of building kits following an upgrade supported by the Victorian Government’s Regional Development Victoria (RDV).