The Queensland Manufacturing Institute (QMI), a key player in supporting the state’s manufacturing sector since 1993, is set to be acquired by the Industry Capability Network (ICN) National Office in a move aimed at strengthening connections between local manufacturers and major national projects.
The acquisition, announced following a strategic review, is intended to bolster QMI’s role in enabling Queensland manufacturers to tap into new supply chain opportunities across vital sectors, including defence, energy, and infrastructure.
“With this acquisition, QMI will further enhance its ability to connect manufacturers with opportunities in vital sectors right across Australia, including defence,” said Paul Hodgson, Chair of QMI. “The integration will also drive efficiencies through shared resources.”
QMI has played a long-standing role as the Queensland licensee for ICN since 2007, delivering billions of dollars of contracts to local businesses through a collaborative model.
In the 2023–2024 financial year alone, the partnership facilitated $1.8 billion worth of work for Queensland-based manufacturers.
Leadership of QMI will transition to ICN National from 1 July 2025, with both organisations highlighting the strategic benefits of greater national alignment.
“The acquisition of QMI provides an opportunity to create greater consistency and efficiency nationally to meet the needs of both suppliers and project owners,” said Derek Lark, Chair of ICN National.
ICN National also emphasised the importance of retaining and supporting QMI’s experienced team as it expands its focus.
“We are committed to empowering the experienced QMI team to continue growing local industry and help create more local jobs,” said Warren Jansen, CEO of ICN National.
“Their work aligns strongly with ICN’s mission to build sovereign supply chains by connecting capable local suppliers to major projects.”
The acquisition comes at a time of growing national focus on sovereign manufacturing capability, amid increased investment in defence, energy transition projects, and preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Both QMI and ICN National say their shared vision for strengthening local supply chains and driving regional economic growth will guide the next chapter of the partnership.
