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For manufacturers supplying consumer-facing markets, understanding demand conditions has become increasingly important in an environment shaped by cautious spending, rising costs and intense competition.

Labour costs have begun to rise making automation more attractive and threatening job security. Focus has also shifted from mass produced products to customised products particularly in the field of consumer products. Fortunately, 3D printing is able to mitigate these changes and allow manufacturing to shift from traditional to advanced production.

Australian manufacturers are entering 2026 under mounting pressure, as rising costs, supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer demand continue to reshape the sector.

Outdated assumptions and stereotypes surrounding manual labour have meant manufacturing has always been one of the most male-dominated industries in Australia. In 1998, the Australian Government’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency reported that just 25.9% of its workforce was female.

Australian consumers value safety and reliability. When they buy a product, whether it’s food, appliances, vehicles, or hardware, they expect it to perform as promised and meet acceptable quality standards. 

Given the proverbial payroll cycle is rife with legislative and logistical obstacles, processing accurate, compliant and prompt payroll requires many working parts. That’s The Payroll Challenge.

One of the "hottest" metals currently garnering interest in additive manufacturing is copper - largely because of its greater thermal conductivity, which is desired in industries like electronics and rocketry where heat exchange is essential.

Australia’s ability to make more world-class products is one step closer to a resurgence with the House Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Resources last month announcing an inquiry into developing a local advanced manufacturing industry, with submissions closing on 30 March. 

Media release by The University of Sydney A first-of-its-kind sprayable coating that can prevent the surface spread of infection from bacteria and viruses - including...

Salea Advisory, on behalf of Administrator Sule Arnautovic, is inviting expressions of interest for the sale or assignment of Wax Converters Textiles Pty Limited, a well-established manufacturing business located in Rutherford, NSW.