WORKFORCE PROJECTS
The Manufacturing Alliance is actively driving projects that address workforce issues in Australia’s manufacturing sector. These projects are designed to deliver practical, targeted solutions that increase the number of skilled workers in line with future demand.
If you would like to know more about any of these projects, please email your interest to projectmanagementoffice@manufacturingalliance.org.au
The Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities (SDIPs), included in the 2024 Defence Industry Development Strategy, clearly articulate the capabilities and outputs that the industrial base needs to deliver to secure Australia’s sovereignty.
To answer this call, we have established the Building a Defence Manufacturing Workforce project, The project is dedicated to understanding the alignment between the needs of the defence manufacturing workforce and the capacity and capabilities of Australia’s skills system.
By understanding and analysing where gaps may be apparent, this project will focus on developing a national roadmap for a coordinated, consistent skills system response.
Ongoing Industry Consultation
Consultation with a wide range of industry including manufacturers, unions, peak bodies, governments, universities and training organisations has already commenced and will be completed in mid- 2025.
Themes that will be explored with stakeholders include:
- The implications of defence industrial policy settings for the manufacturing workforce, and how we can build on work already done on existing skills needs.
- the current, emerging and future capabilities required from the manufacturing industry to meet defence industry demands, including insights into drivers of workforce shortages and pathways between key occupations and training.
- the extent to which the training and skills system is equipped to support the manufacturing industry in meeting workforce and skills needs, and available options which may improve the delivery of a skilled workforce
- the connections between Australia’s defence industry and training providers.
If you are interested in learning more or participating in the consultations, please email us at projectmanagementoffice@manufacturingalliance.org.au
The final report of the project will include an analysis of the industry and stakeholder view of the defence manufacturing workforce and the skills system.
The Manufacturing Alliance’s Initial Workforce Plan has highlighted concerns about the completion rate of apprenticeships across manufacturing.
This project aims to build an understanding of the factors that lead to low rates of completion in order to formulate strategies that increase the pipeline of apprentices.
The 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan identified that manufacturing faces a critical workforce challenge: attracting young Australians into the industry.
Despite its innovation and economic significance, the industry faces challenges in attracting apprentices due to widespread misunderstandings and a lack of awareness about the diverse and exciting careers available.
This project will deliver a national multimedia campaign that highlights the modern opportunities within the manufacturing sector. With a focus on roles in clean energy, automation, and advanced manufacturing, it will highlight the modern landscape of industry and establish manufacturing as a forward-thinking career path full of potential.
The project seeks to transform perceptions, demonstrating to young people, parents, educators, and advisors that manufacturing careers are valuable, forward-looking, and integral to Australia’s future.
We need your feedback
To be involved in this project or to stay updated on its progress, email projectmanagementoffice@manufacturingalliance.org.au
Join us in transforming perceptions and securing a skilled, adaptable workforce for the future.
Australia’s manufacturing sector is undergoing significant transformation due to advancements in technology and shifting economic landscapes. To stay competitive, the industry must adapt to new skills and workforce requirements. The Manufacturing Alliance, responding to direct feedback from industry stakeholders, is taking proactive measures to bridge skill gaps, enhance productivity and support the creation of a future-ready workforce.
Aligned with the objectives in the 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan, the’ Best practice case studies’ project will focus on identifying and sharing emerging skills practices that have proven effective in fostering workforce transformation. This includes promoting best practices in skills development in emerging industries to meet the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
By highlighting effective strategies and real-world examples of successful skills development, this project aims to deliver resources that empower manufacturers, educators, and stakeholders with practical, proven solutions for workforce development.
Get involved in shaping the future of manufacturing
Share your experiences and join us in creating a resource that will guide decision-making and support a future-focused, adaptable workforce that contributes to the growth and resilience of Australia’s manufacturing industry.
To be involved in this project or to stay updated on its progress, email projectmanagementoffice@manufacturingalliance.org.au
The Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance is tackling the pressing issue of an ageing workforce in the manufacturing sector, particularly in the plastics, rubber and cable-making, and print and graphic arts sectors. As many specialised workers approach retirement, there is a significant risk of losing valuable industry expertise and knowledge.
To combat this, the ‘Mentoring and succession planning’ project focuses on retaining critical skills and ensuring business continuity. The project aims to empower targeted manufacturing sectors with practical tools and strategies for effective workforces.
It includes developing a mentoring and succession planning program tailored for small to medium enterprises (SMEs), creating a suite of practical resources for easy integration into workplace practices. piloting scalable solutions and promoting industry-wide knowledge sharing.
This project will equip manufacturing with resources to address the challenges of an ageing workforce, safeguard critical skills, and prepare SMEs for long-term success through effective mentoring and succession planning.
Join us
Join us in creating a collaborative learning environment that empowers Australia’s manufacturing sector to thrive.
To be involved in this project or to stay updated on its progress, email projectmanagementoffice@manufacturingalliance.org.au
