Leaders from peak industry associations, large companies, research organisations and universities have joined Government representatives in Canberra to discuss further ways to grow the manufacturing sector and create jobs.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the roundtable demonstrated the Government’s commitment to manufacturing and creating high value jobs for Australians.
“Australia’s manufacturing industries are a vital element of our economy, they’re a big employer and producer of products and services,” Minister Andrews said.
“Manufacturing creates value across the economy through its demand for research and development, design and engineering services, production, logistics and after sales service.
“The roundtable discussed ways to enable the transformation of our traditional and emerging manufacturing industries, to build our competitive advantage and thrive in global markets and value chains.”
He said a thriving manufacturing sector is part of the Government’s plan to grow the economy and create 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years.
“Improving take up of technology, developing the skills of our workforce, increasing our export focus and enhancing productivity were also key points of consideration,” Mr Andrews concluded.
