Australian-made steel has a significant role to play in Australia’s transition towards advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and low emissions, according to Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic.
In his opening address to the annual Australian Steel Institute (ASI) convention today, Husic highlighted the important role of steel manufactured in Australia in producing low-emissions and renewable technology, such as wind turbines.
“We want to be a country that makes things. Australian-made steel will play a vital role in that vision. The net result is higher-paid jobs and greater prosperity for Australians everywhere,” the minister said.
Australian-made steel plays a crucial part in the country’s economy, employing over 140,000 people and generating $30 billion in annual revenue.
“Important as the industry is today, it can be bigger and better,” the minister said.
Husic said the government seeks to boost local jobs including steel jobs through the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund.
Held at Melbourne’s Sofitel Hotel from 10 to 12 September, the ASI Choose Steel conference features, among other things, a panel discussion on an ASI campaign promoting steel as the preferred building material for home renovations.
The event is hosted by ASI, the peak body for the Australian steel industry, with 500 companies and 5,000 members. The organisation was founded by BlueScope, InfraBuild, Liberty Primary Steel, and Stramit Building Products.
