The Albanese government has published a discussion paper on the development of a new National Robotics Strategy as part of an effort to foster advanced manufacturing in Australia.
The paper will look into opportunities and challenges for Australian industries adopting robotics and automation and start up a conversation on growing the production and responsible use of the technology in the country.
Responses gained through the discussion paper will be used to help identify priority areas for the future of Australian robotics and automation technologies, including existing strengths and gaps that need to be addressed.
“Importantly, if we want to grow advanced manufacturing in Australia, we will need to explore ways to boost our robotics and automation capabilities,” said Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic.
The National Robotics Strategy paper will also look into hindrances businesses face in producing robotics ad automation technologies in Australia, as well as the potential impact of robotics on work and communities.
The government said it will consult widely for the paper, which will be supported by a series of workshops across Australia.
Parliament has passed the government’s $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund, which includes provisions for the onshore development of enabling capabilities such as robotics.
“Australia has all the ingredients to grow our robotics industry – world-class research institutions, a highly skilled workforce and favourable business conditions,” Minister Husic said.
“Automation technologies, including robotics, provide an opportunity to add between $170 billion to $600 billion per year to Australia’s GDP by 2030,” the minister said. “It’s also good for jobs, with research showing countries that have invested more in robotics have experienced higher levels of employment growth.”
